What was the purpose of the Tonkin Gulf Resolution?

The Tonkin Gulf Resolution was primarily aimed at authorizing military action in response to perceived attacks on U.S. naval vessels by North Vietnamese forces. Following the Gulf of Tonkin incident in August 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson sought congressional approval for increased military involvement in Vietnam. The resolution, passed by Congress, essentially provided the president with the authority to take all necessary measures to repel any armed attack against U.S. forces and to prevent further aggression.

This action marked a significant escalation of U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War, as it allowed for military operations without a formal declaration of war. The resolution reflected the U.S. government's commitment to containing communism and supporting the South Vietnamese government against North Vietnam. Subsequent military actions, including the bombing campaigns and troop deployments that would follow, were largely justified by this resolution.

In contrast, the other options either misinterpret the nature of the resolution or suggest actions that were not aligned with its purpose. The resolution did not seek to declare war on Vietnam outright or promote peace negotiations, nor did it address the withdrawal of troops from the region at that time; instead, it enabled a significant escalation of military presence and action in Vietnam.