proportionality in warfare

Proportionality in warfare is a legal and ethical principle that aims to limit excessive or unnecessary harm. It requires that the military advantage gained from an attack must outweigh the potential harm or damage caused to civilians and civilian objects. This means that even if an attack is lawful, it should not cause disproportionate civilian suffering compared to the military benefit. The goal is to balance military objectives with the need to minimize harm to non-combatants, ensuring that the use of force remains reasonable and justifiable in pursuit of lawful objectives.