International Law, War Crimes and the War In Iran

This episode of The Brian Lehrer Show examines the intersection of international law, war crimes, and escalating military rhetoric in the context of the U.S.-Iran conflict and ongoing violence in Lebanon and Gaza. Host Brian Lehrer opens with a chilling clip from Robert McNamara’s 2004 documentary *The Fog of War*, in which the former U.S. Defense Secretary admits the U.S. committed war crimes during World War II through the firebombing of Japanese cities and the use of nuclear weapons. The discussion then pivots to current events, focusing on President Trump’s inflammatory threats—calling Iran’s regime 'effing bastards,' vowing to destroy all Iranian power plants and bridges, and declaring that Iran’s 'whole civilization will die'—which both guests, Rachel Van Landingham and Eliav Lieblik, condemn as potential war crimes and criminal rhetoric. They emphasize that such statements violate the law of war by threatening indiscriminate attacks and spreading terror, and could dangerously influence military decision-making on the ground. The conversation explores the legal definitions of lawful military objectives, proportionality, and the principle of distinction, illustrating how even dual-use infrastructure like power plants or bridges can only be targeted under strict conditions. The guests also critique Israel’s conduct in Gaza and Lebanon, particularly the targeting of medical personnel and the use of forced displacement, arguing these actions may constitute war crimes. Despite a two-week ceasefire, both experts express skepticism about its strategic value, warning that Iran appears emboldened and that the U.S. has not achieved lasting security gains. The episode concludes with a sobering reflection on the limitations of international law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of training, moral leadership, and long-term legitimacy over immediate punishment.