E103: Proportionality in Contemporary War

We often hear that this or that military attack caused disproportionate civilian casualties. Most often, these accusations are directed against Israel, when they are not directed against the United States.  I will be generous and presume that most of these accusations are based on a misconception of what proportionality in armed conflict means, and how it is different from proportionate use of force civil or human rights law circumstances. Proportionality in war is the subject of this episode of the Ancient Art of Modern Warfare.  

 

Reference:

• Although a main reference for almost all episodes is On War, by Carl von Clausewitz, a primary reference for this episode is Chapter 5.12 of the Department of Defense Law of War Manual, 2016 edition.

Music:

• Holst, G. The Planets: Mars Bringer of War, downloaded from Internet Archive
• Kilstoffe, Jens, The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)