Challenges Faced by Susan Rice: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 20, 2026

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Susan Rice. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Susan Rice is an American diplomat and public official, prominent within the Democratic Party. She served as the Director of the United States Domestic Policy Council (2021-2023), U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2009-2013), and U.S. National Security Advisor (2013-2017). Her career reflects a deep involvement in U.S. foreign and domestic policy under Democratic administrations.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

January 2012: Condemnation of Russia and China on Syria

In January 2012, after Russia and China vetoed a Security Council resolution calling for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to step down, Susan Rice condemned both countries for obstructing efforts to peacefully resolve the conflict, stating that the United States stood with the people of Syria.

December 13, 2012: Withdrawal from Secretary of State Consideration

On December 13, 2012, Susan Rice, in a letter to President Obama, requested that her name be removed from consideration for Secretary of State due to controversy surrounding her statements about the Benghazi attack.

2012: Withdrawal from Secretary of State Consideration

In 2012, Susan Rice withdrew from consideration as a possible replacement for United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton following controversy related to the attack on a U.S. diplomatic facility in Benghazi.

August 2013: Criticism of Human Rights Violations in Egypt

In August 2013, Susan Rice criticized human rights violations in Egypt, including condemning the Rabaa massacre, where Egyptian security forces killed over 1,000 people. Rice then led a review of U.S. assistance to Egypt, resulting in the cancellation of military exercises and suspension of arms shipments.

August 2013: Opposition to Congressional Authorization for Military Strikes Against Syria

In August 2013, Susan Rice was the lone dissenter in Obama's national security team against seeking congressional authorization for military strikes against Syria's chemical weapons facilities, following the Assad regime's use of sarin gas. Instead, Rice and Kerry pursued a diplomatic solution with Russia, leading to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2118.

2015: Criticism of Netanyahu's planned Speech to Congress

In 2015, Susan Rice criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for agreeing to speak to Congress about Iran's nuclear program without coordinating with the Obama administration.

2016: Support for Arms Embargo Against South Sudan

In 2016, Susan Rice joined calls for an arms embargo against South Sudan due to the civil war and reported atrocities, but the measure failed to pass at the UN Security Council.

April 3, 2017: Report on Request to Unmask Trump Officials

On April 3, 2017, it was reported that as National Security Advisor, Susan Rice had requested the unmasking of some Americans mentioned in intelligence reports related to Donald Trump's campaign and presidential transition. Rice stated she requested the identities to provide context to the intelligence reports, not for political purposes.