What is the use of reprisal

the use of reprisal should also be categorized under the heading of the lawful use of force. It is defined as a counter action taken by a state to protect itself after the attack made by the other State. There are three requirements which must be fulfilled to invoke the legality of use of force in such circumstances. Firstly, the reprisal must be made immediately. Secondly, use of force by the victim state must be in proportion to the force applied by the other state. Lastly, the use of force must be used against a military target. For example, during the Iraq and Iran war, sea mines were spread, which accidentally damaged the US merchant ship. In retaliation, the US destroyed the oil rig. The matter was considered internationally and regarded it to be an example of reprisal.