Why Russia and Israel Refuse to Declare War

The terms and ethical considerations surrounding conflicts declared as 'military operations' versus 'wars' are complex and often influenced by factual and political factors. Both Russia and Israel have utilized these terms to navigate their respective conflicts with strategic aims. This article aims to explore why Russia and Israel choose not to declare war and the implications of their actions.

Russia's Conflict with Ukraine

Russia's engagement in the conflict with Ukraine presents a prime example of the strategic use of terminology. Despite Russia's invasion and occupation of territories in the Northern Black Sea region, which include former Ukrainian territories like Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and Donbas, the Russian government has resisted declaring a full-scale war. This refusal is rooted in several factors, including legal and political considerations.

Legal and Constitutional Considerations:

Russia's constitution restricts the initiation of war. By defining the current situation as a 'military operation' rather than a war, Russia avoids triggering legal mechanisms that could restrict military actions. This approach also helps in managing the economic and political fallout that a full-scale war declaration might entail.

Public Perception and Messaging:

Russia aims to craft a narrative that frames the conflict as a defensive measure. By emphasizing the protection of the self-determination rights of people in the contested territories, the Russian government seeks to garner support domestically and internationally. This approach is designed to justify the use of military force without fully engaging in a war, thereby reducing the moral and political burden associated with a traditional declaration of war.

The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Conversely, Israel's conflict with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas exemplifies a different strategy. In this case, Israel has declared war, viewing the situation as a direct confrontation with an enemy, rather than a 'military operation'. This declaration serves multiple purposes, including:

Moral Justification:

Declaring war allows Israel to portray its actions as a response to an existential threat. This rhetoric serves to garner international support and align Israel's actions with prevailing norms of state behavior.

Political Messaging:

The declaration of war also facilitates a clear and unambiguous public message, emphasizing Israel's commitment to its security and the protection of its citizens. This narrative is crucial for domestic and international audiences, especially in the face of criticism and calls for accountability.

Implications and Comparisons

The Russian and Israeli approaches to conflict terminology highlight the nuanced nature of such declarations. While Russia seeks to minimize the perception of a full-scale war, Israel's declaration serves to clearly define the conflict and its objectives.

Russia's Approach:

To avoid triggering legal constraints and potential backlash. To create a narrative of self-defense and protection of the right to self-determination. To manage public perception and avoid economic and political penalties.

Israel's Approach:

To justify actions in the face of existential threats. To secure international support and maintain the moral high ground. To provide a clear framework for public and international discourse.

Conclusion

The choice to declare or not declare a conflict as a war is a strategic decision influenced by legal, political, and ethical considerations. Both Russia and Israel have utilized terminology to navigate these challenges, with each approach serving distinct purposes. Understanding these nuances is essential for comprehending the complexities of modern conflicts and the strategic use of language in international relations.

Further Reading

Interested in delving deeper into the subject? Consider exploring: The legal and constitutional frameworks governing war declarations. Case studies of other conflicts where the declaration of war was pivotal. Analyzing the impact of military operations versus declared wars on public perception and international relations.