International Humanitarian Law and the Conflict in Israel and Palestine

International Humanitarian Law (IHL), also known as the “laws of war,” consists of a series of legal instruments that govern the conduct of belligerents in situations of armed conflict. The central aim of IHL is to protect civilians by limiting the means and methods of warfare to reduce unnecessary harm and suffering. IHL stipulates key principles–distinction, proportionality, and precaution–to regulate the conduct of hostilities. Violations of IHL hinder civilian protection, impede humanitarian access, and disrupt humanitarian assistance.

This panel adopted the perspective of IHL to analyze the current conflict between Israel and Hamas and the effects on civilians. What key rules of IHL are applicable in this crisis? What are the status and obligations of the parties to the conflict under IHL? Under IHL, who is responsible for protecting civilian populations​ and their rights,​ and for ensuring humanitarian access?  How is IHL enforced and how are violations addressed? What are the obligations of the international community?

Panelists

Maryam Z. Deloffre, Ph.D, Director, Humanitarian Action Initiative and Associate Professor of International Affairs, George Washington University

Robert Goldman, J.D., Professor of Law and Louis C. James Scholar, American University Washington College of Law

Lakmini Seneviratne, L.LM, Head of the Legal Department at the ICRC Washington delegation

Andrea Liese, Ph.D., Professor of International Relations, University of Potsdam (Germany)