'At War' US Justifies Drone Attacks in Pak as Act of 'Self-Defence'

'Amid growing discontent in Pakistan over the continuous drone attacks in the ungoverned tribal regions near the Afghan-Pak border, the United States has justified the Central Investigation Agency (CIA) operated missile hits against Al-Qaeda and Taliban extremists citing the right to "self-defence" under international law.

The drone attacks in Pakistan as well in Somalia have increased considerably under the Obama Administration, which have been severely criticised by human rights groups across the world. Speaking during a conference of the American Society of International Law, State Department's legal advisor Harold Koh argued that the missile hits were justified.

"The United States is in "an armed conflict" with Al-Qaeda, the Taliban and its affiliates as a result of the September 11 attacks, and may use force consistent with its inherent right to self-defence under the international law," Koh said without mentioning Pakistan or other countries where the unmanned Predators have struck.'

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