Tenets of 'just war' theory

* Cause must be just, often limited to self*defense or to redress injury. Scholars dispute whether preemptive or preventive war can be a just cause.

* Public declaration by a lawful authority.

* No ulterior motives. War must be pursued with right intention - justice - not self*aggrandizement or vengeance.

* Reasonable probability of success.

* More good done than harm.

* Use of force only as last resort.

* Avoid harming noncombatants.

* Proportionality * use of the least destructive force possible.

* Intention to restore a just peace.