Define International Humanitarian Law? Discuss the conditions in which it is applied.

Definition of International Humanitarian Law (IHL):

International Humanitarian Law (IHL), also known as the law of armed conflict or the laws of war, is a set of legal rules and principles that regulate the conduct of armed conflict and seek to mitigate its humanitarian consequences. It encompasses treaties, customary international law, and principles derived from state practice and judicial decisions, with the primary objective of protecting individuals who are not or are no longer taking part in hostilities and restricting the means and methods of warfare.

Conditions in Which IHL is Applied:

IHL applies in situations of armed conflict, both international and non-international, and encompasses various conditions under which its provisions are triggered:

1. International Armed Conflict (IAC): IHL applies in situations of armed conflict between two or more states. An international armed conflict arises when there is the use of armed force between states, whether or not a state of war has been recognized, such as declared wars or military interventions. Examples include conflicts between states like the Gulf War, the Falklands War, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

2. Non-International Armed Conflict (NIAC): IHL also applies in situations of armed conflict that occur within the territory of a single state, involving either government forces or non-state armed groups, or a combination of both. NIACs may arise from internal tensions, insurgency movements, or civil wars. Examples include conflicts like the Syrian Civil War, the conflict in Afghanistan involving Taliban insurgents, and the armed conflict between government forces and rebel groups in Colombia.

3. Occupation: IHL applies in situations of occupation, where one state exercises effective control over the territory of another state. The rules governing occupation aim to protect the civilian population under the control of the occupying power and ensure the respect of their rights, property, and dignity. Examples include the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories and the Russian occupation of Crimea.

4. Civil Unrest and Other Situations of Violence: In certain situations of civil unrest, internal disturbances, or sporadic violence, IHL may apply to regulate the conduct of parties involved in the conflict, particularly when the intensity of violence reaches a certain threshold and rises to the level of an armed conflict.

In summary, International Humanitarian Law applies in situations of armed conflict, including international and non-international armed conflicts, occupations, and other situations of violence, with the aim of protecting civilians, wounded combatants, prisoners of war, and other non-combatants, as well as regulating the means and methods of warfare to minimize human suffering and uphold humanitarian principles.