The term used for members of armed forces party to a conflict, excluding certain medical or religious personnel, as well as certain militia or volunteer corps and inhabitants who defend against invaders, is which?

• A. Lawful combatants
• B. Unlawful combatants
• C. Protected persons
• D. Civilians in occupied territory

Answer: (A)

Lawful combatants are members of the armed forces of a party to a conflict who are legally permitted to participate in hostilities. This category excludes medical or religious personnel and certain militia or volunteer groups and inhabitants who defend against invaders, because those individuals may be noncombatants or unorganized fighters unless they meet specific organizational and conduct criteria. When someone qualifies as a lawful combatant, they enjoy combatant immunity for lawful acts of war, and if captured, are entitled to prisoner of war protections under the Geneva Conventions. This distinguishes them from unlawful combatants and from protected persons, such as civilians or noncombatants who must not be attacked.