In a recent operation targeting members of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, Israel has come under scrutiny for its use of booby traps. While some argue that the operation was justified due to the ongoing rocket attacks by Hezbollah, international law experts assert that it is illegal to use such tactics.

Hezbollah, a nonstate armed group supported by Iran, has been launching missile strikes targeting civilians in northern Israel. Under international law, nonstate actors like Hezbollah have no right to use violence, making each missile strike a serious crime. However, this does not grant Israel the right to respond with booby traps.

A booby trap is defined as an object containing explosive material, disguised as harmless portable items. These traps are deemed prohibited means of warfare by the International Committee of the Red Cross and are strictly prohibited by law enforcement authorities. Even in times of armed conflict, weaponizing objects used by civilians is strictly forbidden.

In the case of Israel's actions against Hezbollah, it is crucial to acknowledge that there is no war currently taking place in Lebanon. While intermittent attacks occur across the Lebanon-Israel border, they do not fall under the definition of hostilities as stipulated by international law. Therefore, Israel's use of booby traps cannot be justified under the pretext of armed conflict.

This violation of international law adds to a growing list of transgressions committed by Israel since October 7th. While the country has experienced brutal attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups, international law permits robust responses to such crimes. However, it sets clear limits and conditions, explicitly stating that the use of booby traps goes beyond acceptable measures of defense.

The continued use of booby traps, despite being outlawed for over a century, is a persistent issue. In the case of the Irish Republican Army during the Northern Ireland conflict, booby traps in the form of car bombs were deployed, leading to regular prosecutions under U.K. law. Similarly, members of the United States military would face prosecution if they utilized such tactics.

As debates over the legality of Israel's actions persist, the international community is urged to address and condemn these violations of international law. Upholding the principles outlined in the Hague Convention Annex of 1907 is crucial to maintaining order and ensuring that civilian lives are protected, even in times of conflict.