What forms the basis for the legal obligations of military operations globally?

The basis for the legal obligations of military operations globally is rooted in the Law of War, also known as International Humanitarian Law (IHL). This legal framework governs the conduct of armed conflict and seeks to limit its effects for humanitarian reasons. It establishes protections for civilians and those who are not participating in hostilities, as well as guidelines on the treatment of combatants and detainees.

The Law of War encompasses treaties like the Geneva Conventions, which set out the standards for humane treatment during conflicts. This legal framework is crucial because it delineates the rights and obligations of all parties engaged in armed conflicts, thereby promoting accountability and adherence to ethical standards in military operations.

In contrast, International Human Rights Law primarily addresses the rights of individuals during peacetime and does not specifically regulate the conduct of military operations in the same comprehensive manner as the Law of War. The Uniform Code of Military Justice governs the conduct of military personnel within the United States, providing a legal framework for military justice but not serving as a global standard for military operations. National Defense Policy refers more to a nation's strategic objectives and priorities rather than specific legal obligations governing military actions.