The U.S. Administrations, the Public Opinion, and the War on Terrorism: A Two- Level Game Comparative Analysis of the Wars on Afghanistan and Iraq (2001-2021)

Amid political and catastrophic events between the regions of North America and the Middle East, an increase of terrorism and violence has spread and foster world politics. Historically, terrorism and violence has been long before September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Towers in the United States. It is traced back to 1993 when the parking garage beneath the World Trade Center exploded causing death and casualties. This terrorist act was followed by several ones in 1994; e.g., U.N. building, the Holland and Lincoln Tunnels, and the federal plaza in New York. In 1995, Ramzi Yousef and other terrorists were captured in Pakistan, just then the information of multiple plots of terrorist act against the U.S. was detained.
The 9/11 attacks were among the most sinister plot that was executed by Khalid Sheikh Mohammad and backed by Al-Qaeda prominent leader Osama bin Laden. This chain of terrorists’ acts has multiple ramifications: 1. It led to the focus of national security of the U.S. at stake. 2. Made Afghanistan as nurturing country to both Taliban and Al-Qaeda a target for the U.S. 3. Established an anti-terrorism policy, where the world should be divided between allies or hostile to the U.S.
Methodology
This research will utilize a two-level game using comparative analysis approach. At the domesticpublic level, primary data will be collected through the public opinion on the war on terrorism and its impact on decision-making processes. At the state level, secondary data sources, including government reports, academic articles,