BSU Professor Weighs In on Trump's Threat to Bomb Iran's Civilian Infrastructure

Boise State political science expert discusses potential war crime charges and Iran's regional influence.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 11:36pm

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A serene, cinematic painting of an Iranian government building in warm, golden light, with deep shadows casting an ominous mood, conceptually representing the political tensions and uncertainty surrounding potential attacks on civilian targets.The threat of attacks on Iranian civilian infrastructure raises concerns about potential war crimes and further destabilization in the Middle East.Boise Today

Boise State University political science professor Isaac Castellano analyzes the implications of President Trump's past threats to destroy Iranian civilian infrastructure, including whether such actions could constitute war crimes under international law. Castellano also provides context on Iran's broader role as a disruptive force in the Middle East region.

Why it matters

The ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran have raised concerns about potential military escalation and the targeting of civilian populations, which could have significant humanitarian and geopolitical consequences. Castellano's insights help shed light on the legal and strategic considerations surrounding these high-stakes threats.

The details

Castellano explained that for the U.S. to legally justify attacks on Iranian civilian infrastructure, the administration would need to demonstrate a clear military advantage that outweighs the harm to civilians. He noted that while the rhetoric itself may not constitute a war crime, the intent behind any such attacks would be closely scrutinized. Castellano also discussed Iran's disruptive regional influence, which has drawn the ire of the U.S. and its allies in the Middle East.

  • In April 2026, President Trump previously threatened to destroy Iranian civilian infrastructure if the country refused to agree to a ceasefire.

The players

Isaac Castellano

A professor of political science at Boise State University who provided analysis on the legal and strategic implications of President Trump's past threats against Iran.

President Donald Trump

The former U.S. president who had threatened to destroy Iranian civilian infrastructure if the country did not agree to a ceasefire.

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What they’re saying

“This one is pretty sticky because the administration essentially needs to demonstrate that hitting any particular target provides a military advantage that outweighs the civilian harm it may or may not cause. So, it's hard to speculate... The words themselves definitely do not constitute a war crime. However, as in any legal proceeding, intent is very important, and so is telegraphing.”

— Isaac Castellano, Professor of Political Science, Boise State University

What’s next

The Biden administration will need to carefully navigate the ongoing tensions with Iran and avoid any actions that could be perceived as war crimes or further destabilize the region.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex legal and strategic considerations surrounding the use of force against civilian infrastructure, especially in the context of heightened geopolitical tensions. It underscores the importance of clear communication, proportionality, and adherence to international law when it comes to military actions.