Generally speaking, standing rules of engagement apply to operations that occur where?

Standing rules of engagement (ROE) are directives that define the circumstances and limitations under which military forces can engage in combat with hostile forces. These rules are particularly applicable when military operations are conducted outside the U.S. and its territorial waters. This applicability stems from the need for clear guidelines when operating in a variety of international contexts, where the complexities of foreign nations' laws, treaties, and operational environments come into play.

When U.S. forces are deployed overseas, they encounter diverse political and social environments that require a robust set of rules to govern their actions and ensure compliance with international law. The ROE helps to standardize the conduct of military personnel and provides an important framework to safeguard both operational effectiveness and accountability.

Operations within U.S. borders or in allied nations might have different legal parameters and considerations, often influenced by domestic laws or bilateral agreements. Likewise, engagements in international waters might also follow distinct legal standards related to maritime operations. Thus, the ruling that the standing ROE typically applies to operations outside the U.S. and its territorial waters aligns with the need for clarity and coherence in complex operational environments.