NCJ Number
162613
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 19 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1995) Pages: 127-141
Date Published
1995
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This academic exercise proposes consideration and debate of the idea of preemptive assassination of terrorists.
Abstract
Terrorists are constantly modifying their tactics to thwart defensive and protective measures put up by many nations. Therefore, it is incumbent upon those nations to develop new strategies and remain one step ahead of the potential attackers. One such strategy is assassinating the terrorist before he strikes. While many commentators and politicians summarily dismiss this idea, it remains a viable, yet unexplored, option. This article details the historical and current perspectives on assassination as well as its legal significance and justification. There have been numerous articles presenting arguments for and against the assassination of the leader of a nation and other prominent officials. This article explores the legal justification for assassinating the foot soldiers in wars without boundaries and with civilians as the intended victims. The author does not advocate a national policy of assassination, but submits the argument as an academic exercise for consideration and debate. Notes