“Hunting” the October 7 Attackers: What the Law of Armed Conflict Permits – and What It Doesn’t

Israel's IDF and Shin Bet are conducting a campaign to kill or capture participants in the October 7 attacks using intelligence and technology. The effort targets Hamas operatives, including senior leaders, and involves a special military tribunal for those captured. Legal debates persist over whether lethal force under the Law of Armed Conflict is preventive or punitive.