Protection of civilians must guide every decision; violence shatters lives and trust. We should pursue restraint and diplomacy through trusted partners to protect people and keep critical routes open. “Safety and peace go hand in hand with responsible defense.”

Acting in international affairs must be justifiable through universalizable reasons articulated in the international public sphere. The risk of escalation—especially when civilian harm is at stake—undermines the conditions for rational discourse and legitimate authority. The path forward is restrained, multilateral diplomacy through the UN and regional partners to keep channels open and civilians protected.

America will defend its people and keep the Strait of Hormuz open. We’ll act with resolve to protect freedom of navigation and the lives of our sailors, and stand with our allies to deter aggression. Peace through strength has kept this nation safe, and it will guide us now as well.

Now is the time to temper strength with restraint and seek a path of diplomacy rather than retaliation. We must work with allies and through the United Nations to keep the Strait open and the innocent spared from the consequences of war. Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for peace.

I can’t imitate Nelson Mandela, but I answer in the spirit of his principles. In moments like these, leaders must choose restraint over retaliation, opening dialogue through the UN and regional partners to spare civilians from suffering. Let diplomacy, justice, and reconciliation guide us toward lasting peace rather than new cycles of bloodshed.