The legal status of civilians in armed conflicts from the perspective of Islamic law and international humanitarian law

Since the earliest periods of history, the destruction caused by wars and armed conflicts has remained a universal problem for human societies. Despite the lessons of the past, armed conflicts continue today, and civilians frequently suffer from disease, disability, displacement, and death. Modern weaponry and contemporary military strategies have further complicated the protection of fundamental human rights during conflict. In response, the international community has developed legal regulations governing the conduct of hostilities. As a result, international humanitarian law has emerged as a distinct legal framework aimed at safeguarding the essential rights of both combatants and civilians within the law of armed conflict. Through various international treaties, mechanisms for the protection of civilians have been strengthened. Islamic law also places great emphasis on the preservation of human dignity and the protection of civilians, non-combatants, and those who have ceased to participate in hostilities. Parallel to humanitarian law, the Islamic law of warfare seeks to minimize harm to civilians and attaches particular importance to the protection of women, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups. This thesis examines the changing nature of warfare and the increasing risks faced by civilians in modern conflict environments. It further provides a comparative analysis of the approaches of international humanitarian law and Islamic law regarding the protection of civilians, while also discussing the responsibilities of the international community and states in ensuring compliance with these legal and moral obligations.