Weapons that cause unnecessary suffering are considered what?

Weapons that cause unnecessary suffering are categorized as illegal under international humanitarian law. This legal framework is designed to limit the effects of armed conflict for humanitarian reasons. The rationale behind this prohibition is to protect military personnel and civilians from the excessive suffering and destruction that certain weapons can inflict.

The idea is rooted in the principles of distinction and proportionality, which require combatants to differentiate between military targets and non-combatants and to avoid causing harm that is excessive in relation to the anticipated military advantage. As a result, any weapon that is deemed to inflict undue suffering or damage goes against these principles and is therefore prohibited.

The other classifications do not accurately represent the legal or moral standing of such weapons. While some weapons could be seen as controversial based on their use or effects, this does not directly address their legality. Similarly, labeling them as standard issue would imply that these weapons are accepted for routine use, which contradicts their classification as illegal.