Debate over US war crimes, illegal military orders returns with Trump threats against Iran

By: Jennifer Shutt

Outlets: DC Bureau (States Newsroom)

Published: April 9, 2026

Words: 1,334

Last Updated: 3 months, 3 weeks ago

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WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s threats to destroy power plants and bridges in Iran before saying he was prepared for a “whole civilization” to die have renewed questions about what constitutes an illegal order and what, if any, repercussions officials could face for committing war crimes.

The issue originally surged to the forefront last year when the Trump administration repeatedly struck boats in the Caribbean officials alleged were carrying illegal drugs. Democratic lawmakers with backgrounds …

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