In modern international relations, there are various forms of military action, the most representative of which are special military operations and war. Both operations, while military-related, are very different in nature. This article will discuss the differences between the two and their potential implications in terms of conceptual nature, operational characteristics, and influencing factors.
First, let's look at the special military operation. Such actions are usually led by large or powerful countries and are aimed at achieving their goals through non-military means such as political, diplomatic, and economic pressure. Its core characteristics include a clear purpose, a variety of means, usually no fighting between two militaries, and mainly targeting domestic regimes or elite groups in other countries. Many countries around the world have long carried out similar operations, such as the U.S. operations in Iran and Iraq.
Talking about war again, its core connotation is the conflict between armies, involving the use of bows and arrows, knives and guns, etc., and serious consequences such as injury, death, and destruction of property are commonplace. During conflicts, both warring sides actively mobilize their armies in an effort to declare victory and occupy territory. Because of the highly confrontational and destructive nature of war, it has always been seen as an extreme means of solving problems.
So what exactly is the difference in the nature of a special military operation from a war?In short, the special military operation takes political, scientific, technological, and economic development as the primary considerations, and adopts a combination of hard and soft methodsWars, on the other hand, are mainly based on conflicts of interest such as territorial integrity and access to resources, and are attacked by force. This is the most significant difference between the two.
As the saying goes, "salute before soldiers", special military operations are often on the brink of war, and sometimes even serve as a harbinger or prelude to war. For example, the German invasion of Poland in 1939 and the Japanese attack on Pearl Island in 1941 can be considered special military operations. In addition, non-traditional threats such as the 9/11 terrorist attacks can also be considered a special military operation.
However, the special military operation also inevitably brings a series of moral and legal controversies. Since such actions usually need to cross borders and infringe on the rights and interests of other countries, it is very easy to raise questions and conflicts in international law. Therefore, in conducting a special military operation, it is imperative to abide by international laws and regulations, avoid violating the sovereignty of other countries as much as possible, and ensure the legitimacy and fairness of the operation.
At the operational level, the special military operation faces a number of challenges. Political decision-makers need to plan deeply to ensure that actions are feasible and sustainable;Military leaders, on the other hand, need to develop sound and efficient battle plans while focusing on protecting the physical and mental health of combatants. On this basis, it is also necessary to pay attention to changes in the external environment in a timely manner and flexibly adjust strategic deployment.
In short, although special military operations and warfare are inextricably linked, there are distinct differences between the two in terms of their conceptual nature, operational characteristics, and influencing factors. Whatever the action, it should be in line with international rules and the bottom line of the law, pursue peace and stability, and minimize conflicts and conflicts.