A short brutal campaign might kill a lot of people - but convince the opponent that continuing the war is futile - thus ending it.
A long “humanitarian” war campaign will go on indefinitely.
Thus those arguing for a more “humane” war - are de facto arguing for a longer war.
I am also reminded of the “Dragonslayer” movie - where a virgin female was ‘picked by lots’ to feed the dragon. But somehow the girls from well connected families never got chosen. I think such “simulated” deaths would tend to fall disproportionately if not exclusively upon those less well connected. How nice for them to have a war that doesn't cost them anything in terms of material goods - and supplies an excuse to execute a constant crop of those who are less valuable in that society.
“A long “humanitarian” war campaign will go on indefinitely.”
Thus Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Many lives were saved by the Enoloa Gay.