Armed Conflict in Iraq; analysis of Daesh’s actions from the perspective of International Humanitarian Law and International Criminal Law

In recent years, the international community has witnessed the emergence of a non-state actress called "Daesh" that it constitutes a global and unprecedented threat to international peace and security. When Daesh occupied areas of northern Iraq, this event triggered an armed conflict between the Iraqi army and the Daesh armed forces. The main focus of armed conflict, whether international or non-international, is respect for international humanitarian law, including fundamental principles such as the principle of distinction and proportionality. Daesh has contravened numerous international law provisions by its conduct in Iraq. The group has breached several of its IHL obligations as a non-state actor involved in the conflict occurred in Iraq. According to the findings of this article, it seems that Daesh's actions in various respects have provided the threshold for pursuing under international crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes.