The situation in Belgium was significantly influenced by the German military strategy, which incorporated terror as a tactical tool. According to Clausewitz, the aim was to make warfare more brief and conclusive. This approach posited that inflicting suffering on the civilian population would hasten the end of conflict by compelling governments to seek peace more quickly.

The idea was that civilians should not be shielded from the harsh realities of war but rather should experience its consequences directly. This strategy intended to put pressure on leaders by creating a sense of urgency among the populace, thereby influencing the political landscape towards a resolution.