Through an analysis of the Taliban’s code of conduct (the Layha), this paper examines the potential to develop standardized, comprehensive and collaboratively designed commitments, aimed at Islamist armed non-state actors (ANSAs) engaged in non-international armed conflicts (NIACs). By adopting a legal pluralistic approach, this study identifies values equivalent to the fundamental principles of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), particularly the principles of distinction, proportionality and humane treatment, within both the Islamic laws of war and the Layha. The paper concludes that there is some common ground between these frameworks. However, IHL has better accountability and enforcement mechanisms. Reinforced engagement between the international community and Islamist armed non-state actors could lead to standardized unilateral commitments. It should do so in order to address the urgent need to improve civilian protection in non-international armed conflicts within Muslim contexts.