responsibility for war crimes

Responsibility for war crimes lies with individuals or authorities who commit, order, or facilitate serious violations of international laws during conflict, such as targeting civilians or torturing prisoners. Leaders and commanders can be held accountable if they direct or ignore such actions, even if they did not personally carry them out. International law emphasizes that those responsible—whether soldiers, officers, or political leaders—are accountable for their actions and can be prosecuted in courts like the International Criminal Court. Holding individuals accountable helps ensure justice, uphold the rule of law, and deter future violations during warfare.