Enforcing the law amid the fog of war is difficult. Holding perpetrators to account once conflicts are over has often proved elusive.Here is a look at some of the issues.WHAT ARE THE RULES OF WAR?The rules of armed conflict are governed by a set of internationally recognized laws and resolutions, including the United Nations charter, which prohibits aggressive wars but allows countries the right to self-defense.
'HAS ISRAEL'S RESPONSE BEEN LEGAL?The Israeli military has pounded Hamas-ruled Gaza with airstrikes, blocked deliveries of food, water, fuel and electricity and told people to leave the northern half of the strip ahead of a possible ground invasion. Gaza authorities say 2,800 people have died and 11,000 have been injured during days of bombardment.Critics accuse Israel of collectively punishing Gaza's 2 million residents.