Question

It’s clear that the norm in international law to target only enemy soldiers is beneficial; otherwise there would be many more deaths on all sides. But is this simply a useful agreement, like the way people once would just fight a duel, or is it a moral matter? After all, in essence there is no difference between the army and the state that sent them. In a normal war you are fighting against a political entity, not against soldiers who came out of nowhere.
And what about Gaza? On the one hand, they’re civilians; on the other hand, they supported Hamas until they themselves began to suffer.
Also, in your opinion, are civilian Hamas government officials—those responsible for infrastructure, medicine, and the like—also legitimate targets, or only military ranks?
Thank you