An Evaluation of Türkiye’s Cross-Border Military Operations in Syria Under International Law

Abstract

This chapter aims to question whether Türkiye has the right to conduct military operations in Syria to repel terrorist attacks under the right to self-defence. Indeed, international law restricts States if they want to use force against other States. However, some exceptions may be an exit gate for States not to violate the ban. Legitimate self-defence, articulated in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, allows States to use force in certain circumstances. Yet, there are still some blurred areas as to whether States have the right to use force against non-state actors as they have been doing against sovereign States. Therefore, in this chapter, one conclusion can be reached: Any state (in this case, Türkiye) that desires to protect its national security by using force against terrorist organisations and escape to be held accountable under international legal regulations of using force shall show clearly and unambiguously that international law permits. One way to do it is by using diplomacy and international instruments wisely.