26 is the law of targeting adequate and does it have a future 261 introduction 262 does the spectrum of conflict make sense 263 is the law fit for purpose effects based warfare 264 is the law fit for purpose asymmetric warfare and suicide bombing 265 is the law fit for purpose wider role of civilians in armed conflict. Targeting is the primary method for securing strategic objectives in an armed conflict failure to comply with the law of targeting jeopardizes the achievement of those aims it is therefore essential that all those involved in or studying issues surrounding targeting have an accurate and complete understanding of this area of law this book offers the definitive and comprehensive statement of . The protection of the civilian population and the distinction between combatants and non combatants is the first cardinal principle of international humanitarian law ihl 1 the law of targeting governing the planning and execution of acts of violence in armed conflict is the primary means by which this fundamental principle is translated into practice. The law of armed conflict international humanitarian law loac ihl pertaining to the targeting of objects differs from that pertaining to targeting combatants human beings when targeting is described throughout this chapter it is the targeting of objects not combatants that is being described