Thank you, John, really [ ;^) ]. It is a mark of maturity to recognize the flaws in commonly espoused arguments.
Ends can never justify means. Principles commonly accepted as decent, humane or ethical and (most) religious teachings prohibit excusing vile or sinful behavior with a dodge. I suggest that nothing good has ever resulted from the violation of this fundamental moral law. And it never can or will.
“We killed to prevent more killing.”
“We stole in order to fund our cause.”
“I lied to protect his feelings.”
The bloody handed, the thief and the liar all want to excuse their misdeeds. But killing, stealing and lying remain wrong, none the less.