What does the principle of distinction require parties to an armed conflict to do?

Correct answer: C. Distinguish civilians and civilian objects from military targets

  • A. Use force only after obtaining consent from neutral states
  • B. Treat all persons in the conflict as lawful military targets
  • C. Distinguish civilians and civilian objects from military targets
  • D. Give identical legal protection to combatants and military objects

Explanation

The principle of distinction requires attacks to be directed only against lawful military objectives and not against civilians or civilian objects. It is a core rule of international humanitarian law and does not make every person in a conflict a lawful target.

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International law regulates relations among states and other recognised international actors through treaties, customary practice and general legal principles. Coverage includes statehood and recognition, jurisdiction, diplomatic relations, state responsibility, territory, use of force, peaceful dispute settlement and the role of the United Nations, while distinguishing public international law from private international law.

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