Most Important International Laws of War (Facts & Rules)
Geneva Conventions (1949). Main set of rules that protect civilians, prisoners of war, and wounded soldiers. Say that torture, attacks on civilians, and destruction of hospitals are forbidden.
Hague Conventions (1899 & 1907). Focus on how wars should be fought (e.g., banning certain weapons like poison gas). Introduced rules on how to treat captured soldiers and respect for neutral countries.
No Attacks on Civilians. International law says armies must only target military objectives, not schools, homes, or civilians.
Use of Proportional Force. The violence used in war must be proportional to the military goal and not cause unnecessary suffering.
War Crimes & Responsibility. Individuals (not just countries) can be put on trial for war crimes (e.g., genocide, torture, unlawful killing).
The International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague handles such cases. Laws have been tested in newer wars (e.g., Vietnam, Iraq, Syria), often debated due to new technologies (like drones).
United Nations Role. The UN works to prevent war and protect human rights, using international law and peacekeeping forces.
