"It is immoral from almost any point of view to refuse to defend yourself and others from very grave and terrible threats, even as there are limits to the means that can be used in such defense"

Moral responsibility often involves making difficult choices in the face of danger or harm. The act of defending oneself and others against grave threats is described here as an ethical imperative, one that transcends most philosophical, cultural, or religious perspectives. To turn away from the duty to respond to real and significant danger is understood as a form of immorality. Passive acceptance of oppression, violence, or destruction can result in further harm, not only to oneself but to the community or society at large. By making such defense a moral necessity, the statement encourages individuals and groups to confront evil, injustice, or aggression rather than acquiesce through inaction or fear.

Yet, the notion of defense is not boundless nor without ethical checks. It is acknowledged that while defending oneself and others is a duty, the ways in which this is carried out must also adhere to moral limits. There is a line between necessary self-protection and the use of excessive, disproportionate, or inhumane means. The righteous act of defense can quickly devolve into cruelty, vengeance, or abuse if those involved fail to respect ethical constraints. Strategies such as targeting innocents, employing torture, or unleashing indiscriminate violence would violate these boundaries, negating the moral grounds that justified defense in the first place.

The statement therefore requires a balance: courage and resolve to act against serious threats, coupled with the wisdom and discipline to restrain that action within ethical parameters. It invites reflection on both the nature of obligation in moments of crisis and on the real possibility that even a just cause can be corrupted by unjust methods. Upholding moral standards, even in the direst situations, preserves the integrity of those defending against harm and reinforces the universal values that justify the act of defense itself.