Targeted killings

Abstract

A targeted killing is the intentional, premeditated and deliberate use of lethal force, by States or their agents against a specific individual who is not in the physical custody of the perpetrator. In recent years ,a few States have adopted policies that permit the use of targeted killings, including in the territories of other States, such policies are often justified as a necessary and legitimate response to “terrorism”.The means and methods of killing vary, and include sniper fire, shooting at close range, missiles form helicopters,gunships,drones,the use of car bombs, and poison.The targeted killing in International Humanitarian law is lawful when the target is a “combatant” or “fighter” or in the case of a civilian, only for such time as the person “directly participates in hostilities”. In addition, the killing must be military necessary, the use of force must be proportionate so that any anticipated military advantage is considered in light of the expected harm to civilians in the vicinity.