Iceland in NATO, the American Military

When preparations were made to establish the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and Iceland was offered membership, debate ensued about the line Iceland ought to take in foreign affairs. Iceland was the only nation in the alliance without its own military or defence structure. Nevertheless, an overwhelming majority of the Parliament was in support of membership, and the move was carried.

When world affairs again became unsettled due to the Korean War (1951), a defence agreement was made with America on behalf of NATO which allowed a few American troops to be stationed in Iceland. This decision formed the basis of a direction in military affairs which has been followed since. The American military base is located in Reykjanesbęr, a short distance from Keflavķk.

Many people were dissatisfied with the decision made by the government and protested "Iceland out of NATO, get the army out!", "The Icelandic flag is cool, the American is a fool!" Various rallies were held outside the base. Fewer people have rallied against the base in past years.