The norms on the use of force in a nutshell
Violation of the Prohibition of the Use of Force?
UN Charter Article 2(4)
Yes
Self-defence?
Authorized by the UN SC?
UN Charter Article 51
UN Charter Chapter VII
No
Violation of International law
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Operation Thunderbolt Entebbe Uganda, 1976
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1ct-meb6U0
All Members shall refrain in
their international relations
from the threat or use of
force against the territorial
integrity or political independence or any state, or in any
other manner inconsistent with
the Purposes of the United
Nations
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Operation Opera, The Destroying of the Osirak
reactor Iraq 1981
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUJOCFK6IeY
Nothing in the present
Charter shall impair the
inherent right of individual
or collective self-defence if
an armed attack occurs
against a Member of the
United Nations, until the
Security Council has taken
measures necessary to
maintain international peace
and security
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Libya 2011 (and Syria 2013)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-eXhWVVowk&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7KbW8zX6Q0
Article 39 The Security Council
shall determine
the existence of any threat to
The peace, breach of the peace
Or act of aggression and shall
Make such recommendations,
Or decide what measures shall
Be taken in accordance with
Articles 41 and 42, to maintain
Or restore peace and security
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