International Humanitarian Law - Brief Definition

According to the Red Cross, International humanitarian law, also known as the law of armed conflict, is the body of wartime rules that protect people who are not or are no longer participating in hostilities. IHL also restricts the means and methods of war. Its central purpose is to limit and prevent human suffering in times of armed conflict. International humanitarian law regulates the treatment of the wounded and prohibits attacks against civilians and the use of certain weapons. It also ensures the protection of non-combatants; Red Cross/Red Crescent and medical personnel; and prisoners of war. International humanitarian law applies only during times of armed conflict. It does not cover internal tensions or disturbances such as isolated acts of violence. The laws apply only once a conflict has begun, and then equally to all sides, regardless of who started the fighting.