Some regimes, factions, and groups try to project strength and strike fear in their enemies by being endlessly brutal and completely devoid of morality. They think that this will make them appear fearless. You have to be ready to call their bluff.
If they were truly strong, they wouldn't need to roll around in moral shit in order to appear fearsome. This is a sign of desperation, not strength. Call their bluff.
And importantly, you should never allow yourself to descend to their level. If you do that, then even if you win, you lose. The moment you abandon the moral high ground, you've lost - and even if you "win" the battle for power, your win will prove unsustainable.
إنما ذلكم الشيطان يخوف أولياءه
فلا تخافوهم وخافون إن كنتم مؤمنين
فلا تخافوهم وخافون إن كنتم مؤمنين
