The RMS Laconia was a British ocean liner that, during World War II, was requisitioned for wartime duties. On September 12, 1942, while traveling off the coast of West Africa, the ship was struck by a torpedo launched from the German submarine U-156. The vessel was carrying a mixture of civilians, Italian prisoners of war, and Allied military personnel at the time of the attack. Initial reports indicated that the ship was carrying over 2000 individuals, many of whom were unable to escape in the chaos following the attack.

In the aftermath of the sinking, the U-boat captain, Werner Hartenstein, made a controversial decision to attempt a rescue of the survivors, which led to further complications. The German submarine surfaced and began rescuing those stranded in the waters, despite the ongoing risks. However, this rescue operation was cut short when Allied bombers targeted the U-boat, believing it to be a purely hostile entity. This tragic incident highlighted the complexities of warfare, especially regarding the treatment of civilians and POWs at sea during an intensely fought maritime conflict.

The Laconia incident has since been viewed as a significant moment in naval warfare, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of maritime engagements during the war. The loss of life was profound, with many unable to find safety amidst the chaos and confusion of the attack. The complex moral circumstances surrounding the rescue efforts also brought attention to the rules of engagement at sea, especially concerning non-combatants. The sinking of the Laconia serves as a poignant reminder of the human costs of war, particularly in scenarios where traditional rules of warfare may be obscured by the realities of modern conflict.