International Law
Just Security offers expert analysis of international law and its role in addressing global challenges. Our coverage includes litigation in international and regional tribunals, the process of international law-making, analysis of compliance and accountability for international law violations–including international criminal justice, and challenges to the international legal order.
3,769 Articles
How to Think About the Soleimani Strike in Four Questions
Four fundamental questions come to mind in the aftermath of the strike that can and should be debated.
Iran’s Leaders Preserve the Republic With a Hybrid of International and Islamic Law
The rhetorical strategy allows them to address the world and Iranians at the same time, while passing on different messages.
The President, His Relationship with Intelligence, and the Soleimani Strike
When it comes to intelligence, like with so much else, President Donald Trump likes big names. It’s this focus on celebrity, headlines, and immediate gratification -- versus …
What the State Department Legal Adviser Promised Congress on Iran
Will Mr. Marik String keep his word?
Iran Plane Downing: Likely a Violation of International Humanitarian Law (But Not a War Crime)
Iran most likely violated the law of armed conflict in shooting down Ukraine Airlines PS752 but did not commit a war crime.
Targeted Killing of General Soleimani: Why the Laws of War Should Apply, and Why it Matters
In her thought provoking and thorough piece, Agnes Callamard addresses – among many other issues – the question whether the US strike against General Qassem Soleimani was subject…
The 30-Day Clock: Recent Law Requires Trump Admin. to Make Full Public Report on Soleimani and Shahlai Strikes
A classified war powers report won't do it. A formal, public explanation of the facts and legal justifications is legally required thanks to Congress’ having recently passed…
The United States Finally Has a New War Crimes Ambassador
Considering the past, current, and threatened atrocities across the globe and the U.S. position on the ICC, Ambassador Morse Tan will have his hands full.
U.S. Legal Defense of the Soleimani Strike at the United Nations: A Critical Assessment
A critical annotation of the principal claims in the United States' formal letter to the U.N. justifying the Soleimani strike.
How to Recover a Role for Congress and the Courts in Decisions to Wage War
A recent set of cases on congressional standing opens up an opportunity to restore Congress’ recourse to the courts for serious war powers violations—if Congress is willing…
Why the 2002 AUMF Does Not Apply to Iran
There is no congressional statute authorizing military attacks on Iran.
Mark Esper vs. Mark Esper on the 2002 AUMF and Iran
In his recent nomination hearing for Secretary of Defense, Mark Esper told Senator Duckworth the 2002 AUMF would not cover military action against Iran.