The Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC) refers to a set of international laws that regulate the conduct of armed hostilities. It aims to protect individuals who are not participating in the conflict, such as civilians and medical personnel, and to limit the means and methods of warfare. LOAC is primarily derived from treaties like the Geneva Conventions and customary international law. LOAC establishes principles such as distinction, proportionality, and necessity. The principle of distinction requires combatants to differentiate between military targets and civilians. Proportionality ensures that any military action does not cause excessive civilian harm compared to the anticipated military advantage.