Full Idea
War can confer only one right over captives, and that is to ensure that they no longer harm victors.
Gist of Idea
The only right victors have over captives is the protection of the former
Source
Baron de Montesquieu (The Spirit of the Laws (rev. 1757) [1748], 15.02)
Book Reference
Montesquieu,Baron de: 'Selected Political Writings', ed/tr. Richter,Melvin [Hackett 1990], p.201
A Reaction
He is arguing against both the killing of captives, and their enslavement.