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Als Quote by Eric Holder

“Any decision to use lethal force against a United States citizen - even one intent on murdering Americans and who has become an operational leader of al-Qaida in a foreign land - is among the gravest that government leaders can face.” quote by Eric Holder
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“Any decision to use lethal force against a United States citizen - even one intent on murdering Americans and who has become an operational leader of al-Qaida in a foreign land - is among the gravest that government leaders can face.”

Eric Holder

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks on Lethal Force Policy, United States Department of Justice, 2014

The quote stresses that author a citizen to death, even a dangerous one, is an extremely grave decision for any government.

In simple terms: Choosing lethal force against a citizen is a weighty, serious act.

Key Takeaway

Weigh all options before resorting to lethal force.

Themes

eth ethics national security law enforcement

Mood

serious reflective

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • Counterterrorism operations
  • law enforcement decisions
  • judicial review
  • policy formulation

Key Concepts

Moral responsibility state authority human rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards ensure lethal force is truly last resort?
  • How can transparency be maintained in such decisions?
A Different Perspective

Lethal force may violate due process and civil liberties if misapplied.

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