International humanitarian law is a distinct body of public international law governing the conduct of armed conflict (jus in bello) and the academic field dedicated to its systematic study and analysis. As a research concept, it investigates the legal principles and rules designed to protect persons not participating or no longer participating in hostilities and to restrict the means and methods of warfare. Key characteristics include the principles of distinction between combatants and civilians, proportionality in attacks, and the prohibition of torture and inhuman treatment, underscoring its significance in mitigating human suffering, ensuring accountability for violations, and regulating state and non-state actor conduct during armed conflict.