The new US security strategy released by the White House in September 2002, is a remarkable document which requires more analysis than that received in the main media, perhaps partially because of the massive attention given to the Beltway sniper(s). The new strategy would justify pre-emptive strikes for the first time against any countries which the current or future US leadership believe might pose a threat in the future such as China or resurgent Russia or any other country or a group of countries. This bold assertion is justified by the threat of even more miniature weapons of mass destruction coupled with the hatred of America. This important document and the accompanying commentary provide essential and thought provoking reading.