1. The Lusitania was carrying munitions: Germany claimed that the Lusitania was carrying munitions and therefore was a legitimate target under the rules of war. However, the British government insisted that the ship was carrying primarily civilian passengers and that any munitions on board were minimal and for defensive purposes.
2. Germany's U-boat campaign: Germany had declared a war zone around the British Isles and warned neutral ships not to enter the area. The German government argued that the Lusitania had entered the war zone at its own risk and that they had no way of knowing whether it was carrying civilians or not.
3. Violation of international law: The sinking of the Lusitania resulted in the deaths of over 1,100 civilians, including 128 Americans. Many argued that this was a clear violation of international law and that Germany was responsible for the loss of innocent lives.
4. Propaganda and public opinion: The sinking of the Lusitania generated significant outrage and sympathy for the Allied cause in World War I. British and American propaganda efforts used the incident to portray Germany as a ruthless and barbaric aggressor, further solidifying public support for the war.