Legitimacy in military action can be derived from which of the following sources?

Legitimacy in military action is fundamentally tied to the concept of authority as recognized by both domestic and international standards. The correct answer involves alignment with international law and norms, which provides a clear framework for assessing the legitimacy of military operations. When military action adheres to established international laws—such as the UN Charter or laws governing armed conflict—it gains recognition and acceptance on a global scale, thereby reinforcing its credibility and justification.

International law outlines the conditions under which military force can be legitimately employed, including the principles of necessity, proportionality, and discrimination. By aligning military actions with these legal principles, a state or coalition enhances its moral standing and minimizes the risk of being perceived as aggressors.

While approval from local civilian leaders can contribute to the perception of legitimacy, it does not carry the same weight as adherence to widely recognized legal frameworks. Previous mission successes may bolster confidence and provide a narrative, but they do not establish a basis for legitimacy in new or ongoing operations. Similarly, orders from a supreme command, while authoritative, are not sufficient on their own to confer legitimacy if they do not align with international law and norms.