Country X Has a Right to Defend Itself

[DISCLAIMER]

As I’ve paid close attention to the 2026 Iran war (sometimes referred to as an operation, conflict, hostilities, etc.), that was initiated by the United States (U.S.) and Israel against Iran, I’ve heard many perspectives which aren’t rational (in accordance with both logic and reason).

Here, “logic” is the interrelation or sequence of facts or events when seen as inevitable or predictable, and “reason” is a statement offered in explanation or justification. For instance, a modus ponens syllogism uses the following logical form: If p, then q; p; therefore, q.

As an example, if it’s the case that international law recognizes a right of self-defense according to the Chapter VII, Article 51 of the UN Charter (p), then country X has a right to defend itself against other nations which attack it (q).

It’s the case that international law recognizes a right of self-defense according to the Chapter VII, Article 51 of the UN Charter (p).

Therefore, country X has a right to defend itself against other nations which attack it (q).

This proposition adheres to logical form. Also, as cited by a valid legal standard, it’s reasonable. Therefore, I argue that this conclusion is rational. Still, rather than speaking in abstraction, allow me to provide specific examples of this claim. According to one source:

Donald Trump announced the launch of a “massive and ongoing” US and Israeli air war to topple the Islamic Republic. Trump claimed that he had launched Operation Epic Fury because Iran had refused to negotiate and “just wanted to practice evil.” The Israeli Defense Forces announced their commencement of hostilities in a tweet that “Israel has a right to defend itself.”

As outlined thus far, it’s a rational perspective for country X to defend itself. For context, defense is defined as the act of defending— to drive danger or attack away from: capability of resisting attack; means or method of defending or protecting oneself, one’s team, or another.

Alternatively, offense is defined as the means or method of attacking—setting upon or working against forcefully—or of attempting to score: making attack. Whereas offense is the proactive pursuit of aims, defense is the reactive or protective stance. These are different concepts.

For further context, another source reports, “United States defense officials say the president has directed them to level Iran’s ballistic capabilities, while Iran officials say Tehran has a right to defend itself.” When the U.S. and Israel proactively attacked Iran, Iran reactively responded.

In this regard, understanding the distinction between defense and offense is crucial. Country X has a right to defend itself from offensive hostilities (i.e., acts of war). However, it’s a matter of debate to claim that country Y has a right to go on the offense against other sovereign nations.

I argue that comprehending the distinctions outlined herein can help you to keep from self-disturbing with irrational beliefs about matters over which you don’t even have control or influence. If you’d like to know more about how not to upset yourself, then I’m here to help.

If you’re looking for a provider who tries to work to help understand how thinking impacts physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral elements of your life—helping you to sharpen your critical thinking skills, I invite you to reach out today by using the contact widget on my website.

As a psychotherapist, I’m pleased to try to help people with an assortment of issues ranging from anger (hostility, rage, and aggression) to relational issues, adjustment matters, trauma experience, justice involvement, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety and depression, and other mood or personality-related matters.

At Hollings Therapy, LLC, serving all of Texas, I aim to treat clients with dignity and respect while offering a multi-lensed approach to the practice of psychotherapy and life coaching. My mission includes: Prioritizing the cognitive and emotive needs of clients, an overall reduction in client suffering, and supporting sustainable growth for the clients I serve. Rather than simply trying to help you to feel better, I want to try to help you get better!

Deric Hollings, LPC, LCSW

Photo credit, Designed by Freepik, fair use

References:

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