Which statement best describes proportionality in self-defense?

• A. The force used should always be the maximum available to negate the threat.
• B. The force used must be reasonable in intensity, duration, and magnitude, based on all facts known to the commander at the time, to decisively counter the hostile act or hostile intent.
• C. Proportionality requires only a proportional number of personnel, regardless of the threat.
• D. Proportionality applies only after a warning has been issued.

Answer: (B)

Proportionality in self-defense means the response must be commensurate with the threat: the force used should be reasonable in intensity, duration, and magnitude, based on all facts known at the time, in order to decisively counter the hostile act or hostile intent. This principle keeps the action necessary and proportionate to stop the danger without overreacting. The commander’s judgment is rooted in what is known at that moment, so the response adapts to the specifics of the situation rather than aiming for maximum force or following a rigid formula.

Think about it this way: if the threat is low, a lighter, shorter response is appropriate; if the threat is grave and imminent, a stronger response may be necessary, but still only to what is needed to neutralize the danger. Warnings may be given, and the number of personnel or the exact force level should align with what’s reasonably required to counter the threat, not with an arbitrary rule about force or timing.