What is an expected benefit of the 'hearts and minds' approach in military conflicts?

The 'hearts and minds' approach focuses on winning the support and trust of the local population during military conflicts. When a military force engages in this strategy, it seeks to create positive relationships with the civilians by addressing their needs and concerns, often through humanitarian efforts, effective communication, and the establishment of security.

By improving relations with the local populace, the military can foster an environment where civilians are less likely to support insurgents or enemy combatants. This not only contributes to stabilizing the area but also aligns the military goals with the welfare of the community, ultimately leading to long-term peace and stability. In successful instances, this can lead to better intelligence sharing, increased cooperation with the military, and overall enhanced mission effectiveness.