What are the international norms on the Law of Armed Conflict?

The law of armed conflict, also known as international humanitarian law, is a set of international norms that are designed to protect civilians and other non-combatants during war. It governs the conduct of armed forces in warfare and seeks to reduce the suffering caused by war. The Geneva Conventions form the basis of international law on the use of force. They regulate the conduct of warfare, setting out requirements for how civilians and prisoners of war should be treated, and setting limits on the weapons that can be used. Additional protocols to the Geneva Conventions set specific rules relating to the use of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons. The law of armed conflict also includes the Hague Conventions, which cover the conduct of warfare on land, naval and aerial warfare, and the destruction of private property. In addition, various United Nations Security Council resolutions and the International Criminal Court Statute have set down rules for the conduct of armed conflicts in certain contexts. The law of armed conflict also includes principles such as the principles of distinction, proportionality, and military necessity. The principle of distinction means that forces should distinguish between civilians and combatants, and take all feasible precautions to refrain from attacking civilians. The principle of proportionality mandates that the force used should not exceed the amount necessary to achieve the military objective. Finally, the principle of military necessity states that the force used should be necessary for the military objective and no more. Overall, respect for the rules of international law is necessary to ensure that war does not result in needless suffering. The rules and conventions established by international law are the foundation of ensuring that the rights of civilians and non-combatants are respected during war.

What are the international norms on the Law of Armed Conflict?

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