U.S. National Security Council

The United States National Security Council (NSC) is a cabinet-level body of the Executive Office of the President, established by the National Security Act of 1947. The NSC is responsible for coordinating national security and foreign policy issues among various government agencies, including advising and assisting the president on matters related to these areas. It also serves as a forum for advice from top military and intelligence officials in order to develop comprehensive strategies on threats facing US interests worldwide.

The council was first chaired by Rear Admiral Sidney Souers during President Harry S Truman’s administration until 1953 when it became an executive department under Dwight D Eisenhower’s presidency. Since then, there have been multiple changes in its structure over time with several members being appointed or removed at different times depending on political priorities set out by each successive president. Currently, there are 22 statutory members that include not only key presidential advisors like Vice Presidents Joe Biden and Mike Pence but also representatives from other departments such as Secretary Of Defense James Mattis , Attorney General Jeff Sessions etc . Additionally , certain nonstatutory attendees may be invited from other branches of government if deemed necessary .

As part of its duties ,the NSC engages in regular meetings which involve discussing topics ranging from conflict prevention & management to counter terrorism operations along with providing insight into how international events might affect domestic security/ defense policies or vice versa . In addition they provide guidance regarding economic sanctions against hostile countries while formulating budget plans for homeland security programs etc.. On rare occasions where significant decisions need further deliberation beyond their usual procedures such as declaring war or responding to major natural disasters ; they will convene special sessions comprising high ranking governmental officials who can give input before any action is taken officially .