This chapter examines as to what extent the resort to targeted killings can be regarded as permissible under each of the conditions and modalities that govern the use of lethal force under the international normative paradigm of hostilities. Topics discussed include the applicability of the paradigm of hostilities, requirement of military necessity, requirement of distinction, requirement of proportionality, requirement of precaution, prohibition of denial of quarter, prohibition of perfidy, and prohibition or restriction of certain weapons. It is argued that the international normative paradigm of hostilities does not prohibit, but imposes extensive restraints on the method of targeted killing.
Keywords: paradigm of hostilities, armed conflict, lethal force, international law, targeted killing, distinction, weapons, military necessity