How do military forces contribute to the "Do No Harm" principle in PoC?

The "Do No Harm" principle is a fundamental concept in the Protection of Civilians (PoC) framework, emphasizing that military forces should conduct their operations in a manner that avoids causing additional harm to civilians. This principle recognizes the critical importance of maintaining civilian safety and dignity even during military engagement.

Choosing to avoid actions that may exacerbate civilian harm demonstrates a tactical and ethical commitment to safeguarding civilian lives and property. This involves careful planning and execution of military operations, ensuring that engagements are conducted in ways that prioritize the well-being of the civilian population and avoid escalation of violence or unintended consequences.

The other options do not align with the core objective of the "Do No Harm" principle. Engaging in combat operations could lead to increasing risks for civilians, focusing solely on military objectives often overlooks civilian impacts, and minimizing operational costs does not inherently address the humanitarian implications of military actions. Instead, focusing on avoiding actions that exacerbate civilian harm directly supports the ethos of protecting civilians during military operations.