Q&A: does the geneva convention mention anything about firing at medics during combat in war?
Question by Nelson S: does the geneva convention mention anything about firing at medics during combat in war?
my friends disagree, but i’m under the impression that there is some rule of engagement/war or whatever that prohibits the shooting of medics…(except for the war in iraq with insurgents, because they don’t fight by the rules).
1. from what i’ve seen in WW2 movies i.e. saving private ryan, medics don’t cary any artillery or heavy weapons.
2. how can the medic go through all the same amount of combat training as much as the other soldiers and also go through all the medical training. obviously he would lack in combat.
3. (my best argument) why would the medics have “red” cross patches on their arm an helmet. (refering the WW2.) the color red is supposed to be brightest color which is why its related w/ emergency visuals such as sirens and indications of stop. the red cross makes the medics walking bulls-eyes.
4. in the movie “the patriot” they mentions that your not supposed to shoot officers because otherwise you would end up w/ a leaderless army and would end up in anarchy. kinda similar to my theory because it basically prevents uneccessary killing.
i know my references come from movies but these historical movies do try very hard to be accurate and this is just a thought of mine. i’m not saying that you “can’t shoot medics, if they’re in the line of fire and get hit they get hit”, but i’m saying is there some rule that you have to try because why would they have a “bulls-eye” on them and be the least armed. doesn’t make sense. they pose no threat and only help the ones that also poses no threat (wounded). kinda like waving a white flag, ur not supposed to fire at someone who surrenders.
Best answer:
Answer by Yulia Tymoshenko Rules
The Geneva Conventions cover the treatment of different classes of prisoners. It has nothing to do with who and who can’t be fired upon in a war situation.
If you’re in the field, wearing a uniform and the enemy, you’re game as much as anyone else.
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