Chemical weapons have been a controversial subject for years. Even before the Germans introduced modern chemical warfare on 22 April 1915 during World War I, issues concerning use of asphyxiating gases and other chemical agents surfaced. Discussions often became emotional and clouded the issues of the effects of this type of warfare. Propaganda and sensationalism contributed to the negative public opinion and impacted on policy development. This study examines the development of the United States' chemical policy by looking at significant events over time and analyzing developments and trends. An answer to the question of whether or not the United States will respond with chemical weapons following use by a third world country against United States military forces is concluded based on study findings. This study concludes that the United States will not respond with chemical weapons against a third world country such as Iraq. Such use of chemical weapons would reverse the developments and trends the United States has made in recent years. The political considerations and impact on future negotiations toward banning chemical weapons would be detrimental if the United States did retaliate with chemical weapons.

ADA 242235 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)