I know the argument. I just don’t buy it.
A decapitation strike gets rid of the Leadership that caused the problem, at least the top tier.
Both military and civilian government are hierarchies. You go down the list until you get to the ones which are still alive.
If Claus von Stauffenberg's attempted assassination of Adolph Hitler on July 20, 1944 had been successful - do you think that that would have a net beneficial effect on American interests?
Would it have shortened the war? Maybe.
Would it have dismantled the National-Socialist tyranny and enthrallment of Germany? Questionable.
Would it have led more-quickly to a lasting peace? Doubtful.
Counterfactual history is not my strong suit, but I am not sure that Adolph Hitler's death on July 20, 1944 would have had a net positive effect.
In any event: I respect your position / am not arguing that you must be wrong. Just having some fun with "what-ifs."
Regards,