Texas Republican breaks ranks and condemns Trump's threat to destroy Iranian civilization

A Republican lawmaker has spoken out against President Donald Trump's threats to wipe out Iranian civilization.

"The United States of America must always be prepared to use overwhelming military force when necessary to defend our national security interests and protect Americans at home and abroad," Rep. Nate Moran (R-TX) posted to X on Tuesday. "And, a President should have the latitude to make decisions to that end, but only to the extent that those decisions are also consistent with the inherent authority of a Commander-in-Chief under the U. S. Constitution and the provisions of the War Powers Resolution. To date, I have supported the President’s decisions relating to the Iranian conflict because they were consistent with these authorities and the ultimate goal of protecting national security interests."

Moran was among the first congressional Republican to speak out publicly against the president's serious comments.

"At the same time, what sets America apart is not only our strength, but how we use it," he wrote. "Our nation has always conducted military operations for just causes and through just and moral means. This must continue in the future; otherwise we forfeit our legitimacy to lead the world. So, let me be clear: I do not support the destruction of a 'whole civilization.' That is not who we are, and it is not consistent with the principles that have long guided America."

"I have and will continue to support a strong national defense — one that is focused, disciplined, and firmly rooted in protecting the safety and security of the American people," Moran concluded. "But, how we protect the lives of the innocent is just as important as how we engage the enemy. America is great because America is good."

Trump's threats have been flagged as genocidal by many expert observers, and some have even speculated he is considering the use of nuclear weapons.