The evolution of the concept of self-defense: International law and non-state Actors

Terrorism is one of the most serious threats to peace, and ISIS (The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) has been introduced as a global and serious threat to international peace and security, as determined by Security Council. The legitimacy of use of force against non-state actors such as The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Known as ISIL) which has seriously violated human rights and humanitarian rights is evolving and not yet well established. In fact, the position of ICJ (International court of justice) and individual opinion of ICJ judges is different from the resolution of Security Council, doctrines and state practice. However developments after 9/11 ( 2001 ) and also the situation in Iraq and Syria and serious crimes by ISIS and other terrorist groups has gradually convinced the Security Council to consider the legitimacy of use of force and self-defense against terrorist activities of non-state actors such as ISIS.