Israel Has the Legal Right — and Moral Responsibility — to Protect Itself From Terrorism and Jihadi Warfare
Share
Category: ISRAEL, JERUSALEM & THE TEMPLE
Summary:
The article argues that Israel has the legal right and obligation under international law to protect itself from terrorist actions, particularly jihadi attacks, by using measured military force consistent with humanitarian law. It distinguishes between terrorism, which is a crime, and Israel's military response, which serves as lawful punishment aimed at legitimate military objectives while seeking to minimize civilian harm. The piece references international legal principles, including the Nuremberg Principles and mutual aid obligations among states, to support Israel’s responses to attacks such as those on October 7, 2023. It also notes that noncombatant casualties, while regrettable, do not constitute violations when Israel acts without criminal intent and in compliance with the laws of armed conflict.
Mysterion Insights
Scripture: Psalm 122:6-7
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you. May peace be within your walls, And prosperity within your palaces."
Commentary:
The Word instructs us to pray earnestly for the peace of Jerusalem, recognizing both its spiritual significance and frequent turmoil. In an age marked by conflict and uncertainty, let these words guide our intercession and vigilance. As we witness the unfolding events, may our posture remain steadfast, seeking God’s mercy and peace upon His chosen city while staying alert to the deeper calls to prayer and readiness embedded in Scripture.
Trend:
Calls to pray for Jerusalem continue to stand out amid conflict, inviting steady spiritual watchfulness for Israel’s peace and urging believers to persistent, biblically rooted intercession.
Tags: Israel, terrorism, jihadi attacks, military force, international law, Nuremberg Principles, October 7 2023
Source Excerpt:
Greta Thunberg and UN special rapporteur Francesca Albanese in an embrace with a Hamas terrorist in the artwork “Human Shields” by AleXsandro Palombo. Photo: Provided In legal terms, intentional acts of injustice call for self-protection. Now faced with multiplying jihadi foes, the State of Israel has a corollary obligation to punish terrorist offenders. It’s vital to note that a basic difference exists between terror violence (the crime) and Israel’s military response (the punishment). As a matter of international justice, this core difference is legally determinative and politically important. There are pertinent details. By definition, terrorism is a crime under international law. A vulnerable state’s self-protective actions against terror crimes are law-enforcing. This assessment holds true as long as the terror-beleaguered state (here, Israel) responds with aptly-measured uses of force; i.e. — measures consistent with the codified and customary limitations of humanitarian international law. During the Gaza War, some argued that the number of Palestinian deaths meant Israel violated the principles of distinction, proportionality, and military necessity. That is not true. Whethe...
Original Article: Read the full story →
Source: Algemeiner
Posted on 12-08-2025 13:04