Breakpoint Just War in Iran?
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Mar 3, 2026 Dr. Eric Patterson, scholar and president/CEO of the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, brings Christian ethics and just war expertise. He situates Operation Epic Fury and Iran's proxy threats. He outlines three moral questions for using force and explains criteria like authority, just cause, and right intention. He emphasizes protecting people and seeking a just peace.
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Operation Epic Fury Frames Iran As Persistent Threat
- The U.S. and Israel launched Operation Epic Fury to eliminate Iran's imminent nuclear threat and degrade its military and proxy capabilities.
- Dr. Eric Patterson lists Iran's 180+ attacks via proxies, Khobar Towers, Beirut embassy bombing, and support for militias as evidence of sustained aggression.
Just War Tradition Is Actually Just Statecraft
- Just War tradition asks three sequential moral questions: why use force, how to use it morally, and how to pursue a better post-conflict peace.
- Patterson emphasizes statecraft involving diplomats, political leaders, humanitarians, and warriors across deterrence, conflict, and settlement phases.
Use Force Only With Authority Just Cause And Right Intention
- When deciding to use force ensure legitimate authority, just cause, and right intention guide the decision.
- Patterson notes self-defense, preventing future wrongs, and stopping ongoing wrongdoing qualify as just causes under Christian moral criteria.