Hague Law Interpreted: The Conduct of Hostilities under the Law of Armed Conflict

Given the centrality of Hague Law to the prosecution and impact of armed conflict, the relative paucity of dedicated works is surprising. The general formulation of Hague Law rules is largely uncontroversial, but this clarity stands in stark contrast to their interpretation and practical application. How precisely, for instance, the fundamental rules of distinction and proportionality in attack are to dictate and constrain the planning and practice of warfare continues to be highly uncertain.

This important new publication fills the gap in the literature. Offering a comprehensive survey of the Hague Law, it explores general questions of definitions and accountability, to the substantive rules and their application to different types of warfare.