International Humanitarian Law governs armed conflicts to minimize suffering. During the Vietnam War (1955-1975), the conflict evolved from an internal struggle to an international war. While the Geneva Conventions applied, violations may have occurred such as the My Lai Massacre where U.S. soldiers killed civilians. Other controversial actions included the use of Agent Orange to defoliate jungles, which left health issues for Vietnamese. The war ended in 1975 with North Vietnam defeating South Vietnam and reuniting the country.