Guðmundur Hálfdánarson, a professor of history, has expressed concerns about Iceland's potential vulnerability in light of increased U.S. military interest in Greenland. He suggests that the United States is exerting pressure on European nations to enhance their military expenditures. This geopolitical tension has been rising due to a race between the U.S. and China, illustrated by the recent Greenland dispute. Hálfdánarson indicates that Iceland, being without its own military forces, has remained largely unscathed from these pressures but warns that this might not last.

In the context of international relations, Hálfdánarson emphasizes the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the financial support announced by the Icelandic foreign ministry for military purchases to aid Ukraine against Russian aggression. This, he argues, highlights the increasing militarization and the need for Iceland to reconsider its defense strategies amidst rising global tensions. Over the years, especially since former President Barack Obama’s administration, there has been a noticeable shift in U.S. foreign policy urging European allies to take more responsibility for their defense.

The implications of this shift could mean significant changes for Icelandic policy moving forward. If the international landscape continues to shift toward militarization, Iceland may find itself compelled to invest in defense initiatives, potentially altering its historical stance of non-militarization. This calls into question not just Iceland's defense strategy but also its broader role in international security dynamics.