GS-2Editorials11 September 2026thehindu.com

A unilateral America in a post-unipolar world

The article analyzes how the U.S. 'global war on terrorism' post-9/11, marked by military interventions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, paradoxically eroded American unipolarity. It details the rise of new terrorist groups like ISIS, the strengthening of regional rivals such as Iran, and the destabilization of West Asia and North Africa. The article argues that despite its unilateral actions, the U.S. is increasingly at odds with an emerging multipolar world order, with China and Russia challenging its influence, and highlights the long-term geopolitical consequences of these interventions up to 2026.

The article analyzes how the U.S. 'global war on terrorism' post-9/11, marked by military interventions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, paradoxically eroded American unipolarity. It details the rise of new terrorist groups like ISIS, the strengthening of regional rivals such as Iran, and the destabilization of West Asia and North Africa. The article argues that despite its unilateral actions, the U.S. is increasingly at odds with an emerging multipolar world order, with China and Russia challenging its influence, and highlights the long-term geopolitical consequences of these interventions up to 2026.

Exam linkage

GS Paper 2: International Relations - Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests; Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

Syllabus mapping

International RelationsGeopolitics & International ConflictsWorld HistoryGlobalization Indian SocietyWorld Physical GeographyFederal StructureBilateral Regional Groupings

This topic appears in Mains

Questions on International Relations come up regularly in GS papers. Practice writing an answer — and see exactly what earns marks.

Editorial & Review Process

Every current affairs analysis and practice question on UPSC Practice is researched using authoritative primary sources and reviewed for factual accuracy and syllabus relevance. Read our Editorial Policy.

Verified Quality