True or False: Medical units displaying red crosses are protected under the law of war.

Medical units displaying red crosses are indeed protected under the law of war, specifically by the Geneva Conventions. The red cross emblem serves as a symbol of neutrality and protection for medical personnel, equipment, and facilities, distinguishing them from military operations. This protection is critical to ensure that wounded and sick individuals receive care without interference from belligerents.

The principles behind this protection are grounded in the recognition that medical units play an essential humanitarian role during armed conflicts. As such, they must be safeguarded from attack and respect the rules of engagement, allowing them to operate effectively and provide necessary medical assistance to both combatants and non-combatants.

In brief, the legal framework established by international humanitarian law underpins the protections afforded by the red cross symbol, making this assertion true.