What aspect of military operations does the law of armed conflict regulate?

The law of armed conflict primarily regulates the legal conduct of warfare and targeting decisions. This body of law aims to limit the effects of armed conflict for humanitarian reasons, protecting those who are not participating in the conflicts, such as civilians and those who are hors de combat (out of the fight due to wounds or detention). It provides legal frameworks that dictate how combatants must engage with each other, the obligations regarding proportionality and distinction in targeting, and the treatment of prisoners of war.

By focusing on legality, the law of armed conflict ensures that military operations adhere to established international norms, thus maintaining ethical standards in warfare. It governs the conduct on the battlefield, ensuring that military personnel are aware of their responsibilities and the laws that bind them, which in turn affects how decisions are made regarding targets during an operation.