What is the goal of minimizing collateral damage in military operations?

Minimizing collateral damage in military operations primarily aims to uphold moral and ethical standards during missions. This principle reflects a commitment to conduct military operations in a manner that respects human rights and seeks to protect non-combatants and civilian infrastructure. By striving to limit harm to those who are not directly involved in hostilities, military forces enhance their legitimacy and maintain public support both domestically and internationally.

This approach is foundational to the laws of armed conflict, including the principles of distinction and proportionality, which require combatants to distinguish between military targets and civilian objects and to ensure that any collateral damage is not excessive in relation to the anticipated military advantage. Upholding these moral and ethical standards aligns military operations with broader humanitarian goals, fostering a sense of responsibility and accountability.

Focusing solely on increasing the number of casualties is contrary to these principles, as is the idea of making operations less humane for efficiency or cost reduction. While maintaining stricter rules of engagement may contribute to minimizing collateral damage, it is not the fundamental goal; rather, it is a means to achieve the overarching objective of upholding ethics and morality in military engagements. Reducing operational costs does not directly correlate with the intent to minimize collateral damage, as the priority is humanitarian considerations rather than financial savings.