The logic of conflict should not apply to medicine and medical sanctions

Abstract

I appreciate the opportunity to comment on the issue of medical sanctions and to add some thoughts on the ethical aspects of this practice. Whilst agreeing with Gross’s (Citation2025) main conclusion that medical sanctions should not be a ready component of contemporary diplomacy or warfare, I would like to substantiate some arguments by expanding on fundamental principles of military medical ethics. Furthermore, a different line of argument that merits elaboration is proposed, namely that the provision of medicine should never be forced into a military logic but, even during armed conflict, continue to be guided by the logic of peace. The purpose of this commentary is not to examine any particular instance of medical sanctions, but rather to offer general reflections on the provision of medical care during armed conflict and the ethical stance of medical sanctions.