Statement on President Trump’s Threat to Bomb Bridges and Power Plants in Iran

"Regardless of legality, the U.S. targeting Iranian infrastructure used by civilians is likely to cause far more civilian deaths than those caused by targeting purely military objects. In addition, under the laws of war, targeting civilian infrastructure is only lawful after a case-by-case determination is made that such an object makes an effective contribution to military action and that its destruction offers a military advantage. Publicly threatening automatic strikes against civilian infrastructure flies in the face of our laws and causes unnecessary civilian suffering. President Trump’s threat to bomb bridges and power plants in Iran as a retaliation-based strategy undermine America’s commitment to the rule of law in armed conflict.”

Members of the Former JAG Working Group are available for comment — let me know if you’d like me to connect you. Thanks.