Which principle of the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC) focuses on the requirement to avoid unnecessary suffering?

The principle that focuses on the requirement to avoid unnecessary suffering within the Law of Armed Conflict is humanity. This principle emphasizes that military operations must be conducted in a manner that respects human dignity and prevents excessive suffering or injury to both combatants and non-combatants. It seeks to limit the suffering caused by armed conflict by prohibiting any use of force that does not have a legitimate military objective, thereby safeguarding individuals against arbitrary violence.

Necessity, while related to the conduct of military operations, pertains to the need to use force only to achieve a specific military advantage. Distinction focuses on the obligation to differentiate between combatants and civilians to protect non-combatants from the effects of military operations. Proportionality requires that the anticipated collateral damage to civilian life and property must not be excessive in relation to the military advantage gained from an attack. Each of these principles plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with the Law of Armed Conflict, but it is humanity that directly addresses the avoidance of unnecessary suffering.