What characterizes a 'just war'?

A 'just war' is characterized by being fought for the right reasons and conducted in a morally sound manner. This concept stems from a long tradition in ethical theory, particularly in Christian theology, where a war is deemed just when it meets certain criteria. These criteria typically include having a just cause (like self-defense or protecting innocent lives), being declared by a legitimate authority, possessing right intentions (aiming for peace rather than personal gain), and using proportional means in warfare (avoiding excessive force and targeting only military objectives).

In contrast, a war driven by personal gain does not align with the ethical foundations of a just war, as it prioritizes selfish interests over moral considerations. A lack of regulations and clear ethical guidelines fundamentally undermines the idea of a just war, as it would lead to arbitrary and potentially unjust actions during warfare. Therefore, the essence of a just war lies in the commitment to fight for honorable reasons, adhering to ethical standards and practices throughout the conflict.