Middle East conflict
Ceasefire or truce – what’s the difference?
Ceasefire or truce: There are subtle differences in international law – and these can be decisive on a possible path to peace.
International law distinguishes between a contractually agreed ceasefire and a mostly temporary ceasefire, also known as a ceasefire.
Truce
The colloquial term of a humanitarian ceasefire often refers to a short-term ceasefire sought by opponents in an armed conflict to provide supplies to those in need. It applies primarily to a spatially limited area.
Unilateral ceasefires announced by one side also occur. These do not always cause the enemy to suspend combat operations. A ceasefire may be followed by a resumption of fighting. But it can also be extended and turn into a contractually agreed ceasefire.
armistice
The Hague Land War Code of 1907, as a fundamental international treaty on conduct in war, only knows the term armistice. Article 36 states: “The armistice shall interrupt military operations by virtue of a mutual agreement between the belligerents. If a specific duration has not been agreed upon, the belligerents may resume hostilities at any time.”
A ceasefire can enable the preparation of negotiations for a peace agreement, but a peace treaty does not always actually follow.
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Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
