Which principle allows the US to be seen as a legitimate actor in military missions?

Legitimacy is a crucial principle that underpins the perception of the United States as a credible and acceptable actor in military missions. When the US is engaged in military operations, legitimacy is derived from several factors, including adherence to international law, the backing of international coalitions, and the overall goals of the mission being aligned with humanitarian principles or the protection of human rights. This perception of legitimacy is important because it helps to secure domestic and international support, fosters cooperation with allies, and enhances the likelihood of mission success.

In contrast, authority typically refers to the power to make decisions or enforce laws, which, while important, does not directly contribute to the perception of the US as a legitimate actor. Credibility relates more to the trustworthiness of the US in following through on its commitments, but it doesn't encompass the broader societal and international acceptance needed for legitimacy. Integrity, although valuable in maintaining trust, is more about ethical conduct than the specific recognition of acts in military settings. Thus, legitimacy stands out as the principle that fundamentally supports the US's image in military endeavors.