What action can CBs take without approval from higher authority under armed conflict laws?

When considering the actions that Construction Battalions (CBs) can take under armed conflict laws, refusing orders to commit criminal acts stands out as a fundamental principle. Under both domestic military law and international humanitarian law, individuals are not only permitted but are often required to refuse orders that would lead to the commission of war crimes or other illegal actions. This principle is rooted in the concept of individual accountability, which asserts that soldiers must uphold moral and legal obligations, even in a conflict situation.

By refusing such orders, CBs are acting within their rights and responsibilities as members of the military, ensuring that they do not participate in or facilitate unlawful conduct. This is an important safeguard designed to maintain ethical standards and protect human rights during conflicts, thereby reinforcing the idea that following illegal orders is not acceptable.

Engaging in peace talks, altering mission objectives, or negotiating with enemy forces typically requires higher-level authority or specific operational directives, as these actions could impact broader strategic goals and the lawful conduct of operations.