General MacArthur's restriction from striking targets north of the Yalu River is an example of which type of operational limitation?

General MacArthur's restriction from striking targets north of the Yalu River exemplifies a restraint, which is an operational limitation that imposes a legal or political restriction on the use of military force. In this specific historical context, the decision was influenced by considerations related to the potential for escalating conflict with China during the Korean War.

Restraints are typically established to prevent actions that could lead to wider conflict or to adhere to specific strategic objectives. This differs from constraints, which tend to refer to restrictions based purely on resources or capabilities. While rules of engagement define the circumstances under which forces can engage, they are generally more focused on the conduct of operations rather than overarching political limitations like the one imposed on MacArthur. Understanding the difference between these terms is crucial for comprehending operational planning and decision-making in joint operations.