What does "Weapons Hold" mean in military terms?

In military terminology, "Weapons Hold" signifies a condition where personnel are instructed to engage only if they are directly engaged by the enemy or if they receive specific orders to engage. This rule of engagement is a critical component of mission control and governance, ensuring that soldiers exercise discretion and restraint in situations where fire should not be initiated unless absolutely necessary.

This condition emphasizes careful assessment and decision-making in combat scenarios, helping to prevent unnecessary escalation of violence and collateral damage. It facilitates a more controlled use of force, aligning with the principles of proportionality and necessity in armed engagements. In comparison, the other options represent different levels of engagement and rules of engagement that are not consistent with the defined parameters of "Weapons Hold."