Nicaragua vs.

USA
Facts of the Case:

In July 1979, the Government of President Somoza was replaced by a government installed by Frente Sandinista de
Liberacion Nacional (FSLN). Supporters of the former Somoza Government and former members of the National
Guard opposed the new government.

Questions before the Court:

Did the US violate its customary international law obligation not to intervene in the affairs of another State, when it
trained, armed, equipped, and financed the contra forces or when it encouraged, supported, and aided the military
and paramilitary activities against Nicaragua?

Did the US violate its customary international law obligation not to use force against another State, when it directly
attacked Nicaragua in 1983 and 1984 and when its activities in point (1) above resulted in the use of force?

Relevant Findings of the Court:

1. The Court held that the United States violated its customary international law obligation not to use force against
another State when its activities with the contras resulted in the threat or use of force

2. The Court held that the United States violated its customary international law obligation not to use force against
another State when it directly attacked Nicaragua in 1983 and 1984

3. The Court held that the United States could not justify its military and paramilitary activities on the basis of
collective self-defence.