What are combatants?

The definition of combatants primarily refers to individuals or groups who engage directly in hostilities during armed conflicts. This encompasses both conventional forces, such as organized military units that operate under a recognized state, and unconventional forces, which may include guerrilla fighters or insurgents who do not operate within traditional military structures. The term emphasizes that combatants actively participate in military operations, making them distinct from other roles or positions that support or contribute to warfare in different capacities. Understanding this distinction is crucial for analyzing the rules of engagement and international humanitarian law, which provide different protections and responsibilities for combatants compared to civilians and non-combatants.