Why does the Geneva Convention forbid medics from carrying any more than the most basic of self-defense weapons?

Question

Why does the Geneva Convention forbid medics from carrying any more than the most basic of self-defense weapons?

In: 10147

Answer 1

Medics traditionally use small arms, which means we’re usually armed with a rifle. The average infantryman has the exact same weapon as their combat medic counterpart.

Per the Geneva conventions it’s considered a war crime to fire at a medic (who is clearly wearing Red Cross insignia) that is not taking offensive acts towards the opposing side. The moment a medic shoots at the enemy they lose their protection under the Geneva conventions and are fair game (if you follow the Geneva conventions). In most modern wars medics don’t wear Red Cross insignia, return fire with their infantry counterparts, and are therefore not protected by the Geneva conventions.

Source: Served as a medic in the US Army