What best describes the Law of War? (The Law of War, pg 3 of 8)
That part of international law that regulates the conduct of hostilities
Rules that determine who prevails in international armed conflict
Doctrine observed by the US Armed Forces
Customs by which States engage in international armed conflict
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
That part of international law that regulates the conduct of hostilities.
Explanation:
The Law of War, also known as International Humanitarian Law (IHL), refers to the body of international law that regulates the conduct of hostilities during armed conflicts. Its primary goal is to limit the effects of armed conflict for humanitarian reasons, protecting individuals who are not or are no longer participating in hostilities (such as civilians and prisoners of war), and ensuring that military operations are conducted with respect to certain ethical standards. The Law of War aims to strike a balance between military necessity and humanitarian considerations.
IHL is primarily comprised of the Geneva Conventions of 1949, their Additional Protocols, and other treaties and customary law principles that govern how war is waged. These rules address the conduct of hostilities (jus in bello), including the protection of non-combatants, the prohibition of indiscriminate attacks, and the treatment of prisoners of war.
The Law of War also establishes guidelines for the use of certain weapons, such as chemical or biological weapons, and rules of engagement that prohibit certain methods of warfare, such as targeting civilians. Key principles include distinction (the obligation to distinguish between combatants and civilians), proportionality (ensuring that the harm caused to civilians is not excessive in relation to the military advantage gained), and necessity (only using force when absolutely necessary to achieve a legitimate military objective).
In contrast to the other options provided, which focus on doctrines or customs specific to states or military forces, the Law of War specifically applies to the conduct of hostilities, providing a legal framework for how armed conflicts should be conducted, ensuring compliance with humanitarian standards.