4 The Use of Weapons and the Law of Targeting

Subject(s):

Armed conflict, international — Armed conflict, non-international — International criminal law, victims — Weapons control — Weapons, conventional

This chapter summarizes the core rules of the law of targeting making particular reference to Additional Protocol 1 (AP1). It examines the legal constraints that apply to the use of any weapon to undertake attacks. Customary law principles and rules and treaty provisions that regulate targeting are all noted. So, the principles of distinction and discrimination are explained, the rule of proportionality and other particular targeting law rules are summarized and the precautions that the law requires in attack and against the effects of attacks are mentioned. Specific rules of protection for particular persons and objects are also included in the discussion. The chapter concludes with an overview of reprisals.