_{The inaugural International Humanitarian Law Diploma Program at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College within the capacity building programs at the Saudi Ministry of Defense.}

17 January - 9 March 2022 – The NESA Center Military Advisor to the Saudi Arabia Armed Forces Command and Staff College, COL William “Bill” Stephens, funded through an FMS case, presented on multiple topics during the inaugural International Humanitarian Law Course for Saudi Arabia. This 8-week course was offered to twenty-six students and two faculty members representing the Royal Saudi Army, Air Force, and Navy. The attendees, including four female civilian legal advisors, ranged in rank from captain to brigadier general, most of whom have studied law. Upon graduation, the military students will be the new legal advisors in units across the Ministry of Defense, demonstrating a commitment to comply with the principles of IHL/LOAC in carrying out the national security missions. Course topics included the international Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC), legal considerations in targeting with an emphasis on tools to reduce collateral damage and civilian casualties in carrying out missions, how to conduct investigations, and the development of Rules of Engagement.

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