Engaging an Enemy Soldier in Combat: Legal and Ethical Considerations

Engaging an enemy soldier in combat, especially when they are wounded but still alive, can raise a lot of questions about legality and ethical behavior. This article aims to clarify these issues, drawing on both legal standards and practical battlefield experience. We will explore situations where additional shots may be necessary and where it could be considered a war crime.

When Additional Shots Are Justified

During close quarters combat (CQC), it is often necessary to continue shooting an enemy soldier after they have fallen, especially if they continue to make sounds or move. This is to ensure they are no longer a threat. This practice is not uncommon and is justified to prevent further harm to your own troops.

For example, consider the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In CQC situations, soldiers are trained to ensure that enemies are no longer capable of engaging in combat. This not only protects the wounded soldier but also avoids any potential retaliation from their comrades.

Why Letting Wounded Soldiers Live Could Be Risky

Allowing a wounded enemy soldier to live can lead to dire consequences. If the soldier has a weapon or explosive device on their person, they could turn on you or their comrades. By systematically eliminating any remaining threat with quick, decisive action, you minimize the risk of further casualties on your side.

Initial Ambush and Final Execution

When setting up an ambush, it is often necessary to use high-impact weaponry first to bring down as many enemies as possible. Once the initial attack is made, it is crucial to secure the kill zone by finishing off any remaining combatants with a quick headshot. This ensures that no one is left alive to surprise your troops.

Unless you are searching for a live prisoner to take back, the priority is to neutralize any threats. The Geneva Convention, while providing protections for prisoners of war (POWs), does not protect enemy combatants who have not surrendered officially. This means that any combatant on the active battlefield who is not a POW can still be targeted under the rules of engagement.

Engaging an Enemy in Specific Situations

Situations where an enemy soldier is actively engaging in combat, like shooting at you or your comrades, require immediate and decisive action. If you initially thought they were injured but were wrong, there is no wrongdoing in taking curative action. Communication and awareness are key; if you are unsure, it is safer to assume the individual is still a threat and take appropriate action.

One must also consider the potential language barriers. If a soldier is screaming in a language you do not understand, it is prudent to assume the worst. Hearing in combat can be distorted, and words that may not be meant to be heard can be misinterpreted.

Surrender and the Geneva Convention

The Geneva Convention does specifically mention that it is illegal to shoot a soldier in the act of surrender, but this is generally under circumstances of mass surrenders where the enemy is not engaging in immediate combat. In an individual situation, the act of surrender is not a blanket protection from all actions.

Furthermore, the Geneva Convention allows for the shooting of retreating soldiers, which are still considered combatants. This means that even as they are retreating, they are not protected from lethal force if they pose a direct threat.

What we describe may be unfortunate and dishonorable, but it is not necessarily a war crime. The laws of war are designed to protect soldiers to the extent possible while also ensuring battlefield survival for the opposing forces. You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of your comrades, and precautions must be taken accordingly.

Conclusion

Engaging an enemy soldier, even one who is wounded, can be a complex issue with legal and ethical considerations. While there are clear guidelines and principles to follow, the specific circumstances of each encounter can blur the lines. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the survival of your own troops while minimizing unnecessary violence. Understanding the legal and practical aspects of battlefield engagement is crucial for all combatants.