Applicability of the ‘Doctrine of Hot Pursuit’ to Hunt Rebels under International Law

The ‘Doctrine of Hot Pursuit’ was initially recognized as part of international maritime law. Since the 2000s the doctrine has been, albeit sparingly, used to hunt terrorists and rebels that cause trouble in one country, but then cross over in another country. Pakistan has a right to defend itself under international law. This includes preemptive self-defense against active insurgents and rebels. Going by this right and historical antecedents a case could be made for Pakistan to conduct operations in Afghanistan in an attempt to mitigate the threat that Pakistan faces. However, although hot pursuit on land has been exercised by countries in the past, the legality of it remains questionable.