Politico: U.S. expands list of targets in Iran to avoid war crimes charges

The Pentagon is expanding the list of Iranian energy facilities it may attack, adding those that supply fuel and electricity to both the civilian population and the military.

According to Ukrinform, Politico reports this, citing informed officials.

According to two U.S. Department of War representatives, military planners are reviewing the list of Iranian targets that could be struck.

Officials believe that the dual use of these facilities makes them legitimate targets for attacks.

On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to create a situation in Iran “where every bridge in Iran will be decimated by 12:00 tomorrow night, where every power plant in Iran will be out of business, burning, exploding and never to be used again”.

However, according to a third official, current Pentagon officials have debated whether this justification is valid for attacks. The main debate centers on the distinction between military and civilian targets, particularly facilities such as desalination plants. These could be considered legitimate targets, as the military also needs potable water.

The Geneva Convention, which defines international humanitarian law, allows for leeway when targets are used by both military and civilian personnel.

As reported by Ukrinform, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that allowing Iran to possess nuclear weapons would constitute a true war crime, rather than the U.S. military striking their critical infrastructure.

Photo: U.S. Central Command