Which principle focuses on the legitimacy of the action taken in military operations?

The principle that focuses on the legitimacy of the action taken in military operations is rooted in the concept of "Legitimacy." This principle emphasizes the necessity for military actions to be grounded in legal and moral justifications. It ensures that the use of force is recognized by both domestic and international law, thus maintaining the support of the international community and ensuring compliance with ethical standards.

Using legitimate military action helps to uphold the rules of engagement and fosters greater trust in the military and its operations. Legitimacy involves factors such as adherence to international law, accountability, and public perception, which are critical for maintaining support both at home and abroad.

Other principles, such as necessity and proportionality, pertain to different aspects of military operations: necessity focuses on whether the use of force is required to achieve legitimate military objectives, while proportionality seeks to balance the military advantage gained against the harm caused to civilians and civilian property. Command authority is about the structure and hierarchy of leadership in military operations, which does not directly address the legitimacy of the actions taken. Therefore, the principle of legitimacy encompasses the broader ethical and legal foundations upon which military operations are justified.