How does the principle of necessity limit military commanders?

The principle of necessity is a fundamental concept in military operations that aims to ensure that the use of force is justified and proportionate to the military objective sought. It asserts that military force should only be utilized when absolutely necessary to achieve a specific military goal and that all other options should be considered and, if possible, exhausted prior to engaging in armed conflict.

When looking at the concept of necessity, requiring all diplomatic measures to be attempted first aligns with the broader idea of the principle of necessity. It emphasizes the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions before escalating to military action. This encourages commanders to prioritize negotiations, diplomacy, and alternative conflict resolution strategies as prerequisites to the use of force. Therefore, this focus on exhausting non-violent options serves to limit the authority and decision-making of military commanders, prompting them to carefully consider the implications of their choices and the potential consequences of military engagement.

In contrast, the other options reflect aspects that do not directly pertain to the principle of necessity. For instance, restrictions on advanced weaponry or defining the scope of military engagement are more related to other principles of warfare, such as proportionality or legality, rather than the necessity of action. Similarly, mandates for civilian oversight are primarily concerned with governance and control over military actions, rather than