The Army uses three basic principles for reflecting on the right conduct of war: proportionality, safeguarding noncombatants, and conduct in accordance with international agreements.
-Proportionality is the first criterion and refers primarily to the selection and use of weapons. It condemns "overkill." Its purpose is to prevent unnecessary death, suffering, and destruction. It requires the selection of military targets and the avoidance of intentional destruction of civilian targets. It does not permit retaliation.
