The just war theory of politics sets a guideline for the moral way to conduct war. It includes rules as to who can engage in war and for which reasons, and explains how a war should be carried out in a justified manner so as to preserve the moral integrity of the defending body. Theoretically, all wars should be carried out in this way to reduce unnecessary destruction and death. However, there is a fine line between what makes a war just and what does not fit this standard.

The conflict going on in Iraq today is in the midst of this ambiguity about what makes a war “just”. By looking at the ways this war matches up with the image of the just war, we can attempt to determine if the current situation is, in fact, justified.

It is important to remember that just war theory is, in the end, just a theory, and is open to interpretation. The views expressed here are my own, but that is not to say that my conclusion is the only possible analysis of the situation. I hope that this website will help you come to your own interpretation of just war.

Please contact Sally Brzozowski with questions and comments.