David French on The Iran War: If It’s Illegal, Is It Just?

The Intersection of Trump, Iran, and the Moral Limits of War

What should Christians think about the U.S. war with Iran, Israel’s role in the conflict, and the risk of a wider Middle East war? In this Good Faith Podcast episode, Curtis Chang and New York Times columnist David French unpack the escalating U.S.-Iran war through the lens of Christian theology, just war theory, constitutional checks and balances, and the moral limits of presidential power. They explore whether America’s military action against Iran is just, legal, or dangerously reckless, while also addressing Israel, regime change, MAGA foreign policy, and the growing risk of a wider global conflict. Join David and Curtis for a thoughtful framework for understanding war in a volatile moment.

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02:32 – Did Anyone See This Coming?

04:51 – Distinguishing Just and Legal Wars

09:25 – Evaluating America’s War Against Iran

14:46 – Why Hasn’t Congress Acted?

17:59 – Truthfulness of the Administration

22:32 – Potential Consequences of Prolonged War

33:12 – What About the Theory That Trump’s War is a Diversion From Personal Scandals?

39:04 – Evangelical Support for Israel

44:08 – Are We Heading Toward World War III?

53:49 – Christian Prayer and Moral Response

Scriptures:

• 1 Timothy 2:1–2 (ESV)

Mentioned in This Episode:

• A primer on Just War Theory
• Augustine and Just War Theory
• The UN Charter  Chapter VII, Article 51: the use of force and collective self-defense
• What is the War Powers Resolution?
• Abraham Lincoln’sLetter to Congress: January 12, 1848 (Speech regarding Mexican War)
• Background on U.S. Relations With Iran (1953-2026)
• Background on Operation Praying Mantis
• Impacts of the U.S. killing of Qassem Soleimani
• More about the Lockerbie bombing
• The Ezra Klein Show, March 3 episode: The Great Lie of War

More From David French:

• David French’s New York Times pieces HERE
• Follow David French on Threads

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The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.