A war crime is a serious violation of the laws and customs of war, which can occur during armed conflicts. These crimes include acts such as intentionally targeting civilians, using prohibited weapons, and committing torture. War crimes are defined by international law, particularly through treaties like the Geneva Conventions. Individuals responsible for war crimes can be prosecuted in international courts, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC). The goal of prosecuting war crimes is to hold perpetrators accountable and to deter future violations, ensuring that humanitarian standards are upheld even in times of war.