dirty war

A "dirty war" refers to a conflict characterized by covert, illegal, or unethical tactics used by governments or groups to eliminate opponents. It often involves disappearances, torture, kidnapping, and secret operations outside of standard military or legal procedures. These wars are usually fought against political opponents, guerrillas, or dissidents, and aim to suppress dissent through fear and repression. The term gained prominence during Argentina’s military dictatorship (1976-1983), but has been used globally to describe similar clandestine and ethically questionable conflicts where human rights are severely compromised.