Belligerent Occupation

Belligerent occupation occurs when a military force takes control of a territory during or after a conflict without annexing it officially. The occupying power governs the area, maintaining order and security, but does not establish permanent sovereignty. International laws, like the Geneva Conventions, regulate such occupations to protect civilians' rights and ensure humane treatment. The occupation is considered temporary and must respect the existing laws, culture, and inhabitants’ rights, with the goal of restoring peace and stability. It differs from annexation, which involves permanently incorporating territory into a state's borders.