Four-star Gen. Kevin P. Byrnes was relieved of his command Tuesday, reportedly because he had an extramarital affair.

According to The Washington Post, the general’s affair was not with another officer or a subordinate and had no connection to the military.

The code of conduct for military officers is strict and demands that officers meet high standards. We’re not excusing people who cheat on their spouses. Infidelity is destructive and morally offensive.

But that this man lost his career for an affair when other commanding officers, who have allowed the systematic torture and death of prisoners under their control, have not been held accountable shows the absurdity of military justice.

As the Post points out, it’s possible there are undisclosed details of the dismissal that would justify the harsh penalty. But if Gen. Byrnes was thrown to the dogs for an affair while others face no consequences for actions that have wrongly denied detainees their freedom, dignity and lives, it’s enough to make the entire world gasp.