Douglas Feith

Douglas Feith is an American lawyer, government official, and author, best known for his role as the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy from 2001 to 2005 during the George W. Bush administration. Born on July 16, 1953, in New York City, Feith has had a significant influence on U.S. defense policy, particularly in relation to the Iraq War and the War on Terror. He is also known for his work on international relations and national security, contributing to key military and diplomatic strategies during his tenure at the Department of Defense.

Feith's career has been marked by his involvement in several controversial decisions, including his support for the Iraq invasion and his role in shaping the Bush administration’s foreign policy. After leaving government, he became an academic and think tank scholar, contributing to the debate on Middle East policy, military strategy, and the fight against terrorism. Feith also authored War and Decision: Inside the Pentagon at the Dawn of the War on Terrorism, which reflects on his experiences and offers a critical view of U.S. military and intelligence operations.

One of Feith’s thought-provoking quotes is: "Good policy cannot come from a place of ignorance, and it must be based on the best intelligence available." This reflects his emphasis on the importance of informed decision-making in matters of national security. His work continues to influence discussions on defense policy, intelligence, and the legacy of U.S. actions in the Middle East.