This monograph uses a case study approach to analyze the concepts of just war theory, the laws of armed conflict, airpower theory, and United States Air Force doctrine during the Gulf War. The case study focuses on the Al Firdos strike in downtown Baghdad, Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. This monograph seeks to answer the questions: how is war limited by considerations of collateral damage, just war theory, and the laws of war? How does the US account for these considerations? This monograph will test the theory that no matter how advanced weapons become, and how strictly states adhere to just war theory and LOAC, collateral damage can never be entirely eliminated. The answers to these questions will aid commanders and staffs in planning future operations with consideration to their impact on the civil environment.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)