Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Barack Obama

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Barack Obama.

Barack Obama, the 44th U.S. President (2009-2017), was the first African American to hold the office. A Democrat, he previously served as a U.S. Senator for Illinois (2005-2008) and an Illinois State Senator (1997-2004). His presidency saw the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the end of the Iraq War, and the killing of Osama bin Laden. He is viewed as a significant figure in American history.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

October 2, 2002: Address at Anti-Iraq War Rally

On October 2, 2002, Barack Obama addressed the first high-profile Chicago anti-Iraq War rally, speaking out against the impending war.

March 2003: Address at Anti-War Rally

In March 2003, Obama addressed another anti-war rally, stating "it's not too late" to stop the war.

May 2008: Resignation from Trinity United Church of Christ

In May 2008, during his first presidential campaign, Barack Obama resigned from Trinity United Church of Christ after some of Jeremiah Wright's statements were criticized.

March 2010: Obama against Israeli housing projects in East Jerusalem

In March 2010, Obama took a public stance against plans by the government of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu to continue building Jewish housing projects in predominantly Arab neighborhoods of East Jerusalem.

March 2015: Obama authorizes support to Saudis in Yemen

In March 2015, Obama authorized U.S. forces to provide logistical and intelligence support to the Saudis in their military intervention in Yemen and established a "Joint Planning Cell" with Saudi Arabia.

2015: Obama criticized for advocating and signing the Iran Nuclear Deal

In 2015, Obama was harshly criticized by Israel for advocating and signing the Iran Nuclear Deal; Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had advocated the U.S. congress to oppose it, said the deal was "dangerous" and "bad."

December 23, 2016: U.S. abstains from UN Security Council Resolution condemning Israeli settlements

On December 23, 2016, under the Obama administration, the United States abstained from United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334, which condemned Israeli settlement building in the occupied Palestinian territories as a violation of international law, effectively allowing it to pass.

2016: Proposed arms deal with Saudi Arabia and halted sale of guided munition technology

In 2016, the Obama administration proposed a series of arms deals with Saudi Arabia worth $115 billion. However, Obama halted the sale of guided munition technology to Saudi Arabia after Saudi warplanes targeted a funeral in Yemen's capital Sanaa, resulting in over 140 deaths.

January 5, 2017: U.S. House of Representatives condemns UN Resolution

On January 5, 2017, the United States House of Representatives voted 342–80 to condemn the UN Resolution.

January 6, 2017: Israel withdraws dues from the UN

On January 6, 2017, the Israeli government withdrew its annual dues from the United Nations organization, which totaled $6 million, in response to the U.S. abstention from United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334.