THE concept of Just Wars has been a cornerstone of political and philosophical debate for centuries, grappling with the age-old question of when and if war can be morally justified. From the ancient Greeks to modern-day policymakers, thinkers have sought to define the criteria for a just war, balancing the need to protect and defend against the devastating consequences of conflict.
This article delves into the evolution of Just War theory, exploring its core principles, historical applications and contemporary implications, comparison with the Islamic concept of just war. By examining the complex ethical and strategic considerations surrounding the war, we aim to shed light on the ongoing quest for a more just and peaceful world.
So let us understand the concept of a ‘just war’, which historically has been a subject of intense debate among theologians, ethicists and policymakers. In essence the theory of ‘just war’ is a doctrine that seeks to provide a moral framework for an armed conflict/war, ensuring that if a conflict must arise, it is waged with ethical considerations at the forefront.
The origins of just war theory can be traced back to various civilizations and religions, including Ancient Egypt, India and East Asian cultures. The works of Saint Augustine and Saint Thomas Aquinas, the Christian theologians, provides a more defined shape to this theory. In the western world, these early thinkers laid the groundwork for what would become a longstanding tradition of military ethics.
This theory is divided into two primary sets of criteria: jus ad bellum (the right to go to war) and jus in bello (the right conduct in war). A third category has also been proposed, jus post bellum (justice after war). This addresses the morality of post war settlement and reconstruction.
Jus ad Bellum: This set of criteria addresses the morality of going to war. Key conditions include having a just cause, being declared by a proper authority, possessing right intention and being a last resort. Jus in Bello: This set focuses on the moral conduct within war. It emphasizes the principles of discrimination (distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants) and proportionality (ensuring the force used is proportional to the threat).
In the 21st century, the debate around just war theory continues, with traditionalists supporting existing laws of war and revisionists challenging many of these assumptions. The debate focuses on the relevance of this theory in modern warfare which is mostly against non-state actors and asymmetric conflicts.
Islam has its own concept of just war, rooted in the principles of jihad, often misunderstood in modern contexts. Jihad represents a struggle or effort in the path of God, including spiritual, moral and armed struggle under certain conditions. The Islamic concept of just war aligns with several principles similar to modern just-war theory: War must have a just cause and be defensive, following the principle of non-aggression. Only a legitimate authority can declare war, ensuring responsibility lies with the state. The intention behind war must be just, not for personal gain, ruling out wars of expansion. All peaceful means must be exhausted before resorting to war and the response must be proportional to the aggression faced. Islamic tradition mandates honoring treaties and protecting non-combatants, ensuring their lives and property are safeguarded. This framework ensures jihad aims to preserve peace and justice, not perpetuate conflict.
Thus the primary goal of jihad in the context of warfare is to protect the safety of the Muslim community and ensure the freedom to practice Islam. Jihad, under NO circumstances is permitted as a tool for religious compulsion, forced conversions OR for advancing political or worldly goals. This framework for just war in Islam is not only a historical concept but continues to be relevant in discussions about international law and ethics in warfare. What is most important to note is that JIHAD, as a concept of war, is always intended to preserve peace and justice, rather than to perpetuate conflict.
The just war theory remains a critical ethical framework for evaluating military conflicts, whether from a western perspective or from the Islamic point of view. While the nature of warfare has evolved, the fundamental questions posed by the theory continue to guide leaders and citizens alike in making difficult decisions about when, how and why to engage in war. As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to examine and refine the principles of just war to ensure they remain relevant in our ever-changing world.
An effort has been made to provides a brief overview of the just war theory, its historical context and the ongoing debates surrounding its application. We may measure the current conflicts in this context and arrive at our own conclusions on how these concepts have been applied or disregarded in various situations. We also need to be cognizant that as an Islamic State, our moral ascendency can only be ensured if the Islamic concept of a JUST WAR is fully understood and applied.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
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