Former US General Claims Military Commanders May Disobey Orders to Target Iran's Civilian Infrastructure

Retired US Army Lieutenant General Mark Hertling appeared on MSNBC's Deadline program and stated that US military commanders may disobey orders from President Donald Trump to target Iran's civilian infrastructure. Hertling, who previously commanded US forces in Iraq and Europe, made the comments in the context of escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.

The discussion occurred on the program hosted by Nicolle Wallace.

Hertling's statement refers to potential directives that would involve striking non-military targets in Iran, such as power plants, hospitals, or water facilities. He emphasized that such actions would violate international laws of war, including the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit attacks on civilian objects.

According to Hertling, active-duty officers have a duty to refuse unlawful orders under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The backdrop to these remarks includes ongoing US-Iran relations strained by issues such as Iran's nuclear program, support for proxy groups in the Middle East, and recent incidents involving US forces. President Trump has previously authorized military actions against Iranian targets, including the 2020 strike that killed General Qasem Soleimani.

Hertling's comments suggest internal military resistance could emerge if orders extend to civilian sites.

Those affected by potential escalation include Iranian civilians, who could face infrastructure disruptions leading to humanitarian crises, as well as US service members risking legal repercussions for following disputed orders. Broader stakes involve regional stability, with allies like Israel and Saudi Arabia monitoring US policy shifts.

International bodies, such as the United Nations, might investigate any violations of humanitarian law.

Looking ahead, the US military's response would depend on the specifics of any orders issued. Legal experts anticipate that commanders could seek clarification from the Pentagon or Joint Chiefs of Staff. Congress may also review such directives through oversight committees, potentially influencing future engagements.

Hertling's perspective draws from his 37-year career in the Army, where he served in multiple combat zones. His public statements aim to inform the public on military ethics amid political debates. No official confirmation from the Pentagon has been reported regarding these claims.