A4.2.1.2. Requirement to Distinguish . The requirement to distinguish between combatants

and civilians and between military objectives and civilian objects imposes obligations on all the

parties to a conflict. This is true whatever the legal status of the territory on or over which combat

occurs. For example, civilians may not be used in an attempt to render an area immune from military

operations. Also, civilians may not be used to shield a defensive position, to hide military

objectives, or to screen an attack. Neither may they be forced to leave their homes or shelters in

order to disrupt the movement of an adversary.

A4.2.2. Military Objectives. Military attacks must be directed only against military objectives. Military

objectives are those objects which by their nature, location, purpose, or use make an effective

contribution to military action and whose total or partial destruction, capture, or neutralization in the

circumstances offers a definite military advantage.

A4.2.2.1. Many objects are clearly military objectives --for example, the enemy's military

encampments or armament (such as military aircraft, tanks, antiaircraft emplacements, and troops

in the field). Factories, workshops, and plants that directly support the needs of the enemy's armed

forces are also generally conceded to be legitimate military objectives.