Tazkiya-e-Nafs
Self-defense is a natural instinct. It is not aptitude. It is found in every being. In a desperate situation, one follows one’s instinct for self-defense. Your second example is also of a desperate situation, still, the most suitable one will be chosen. Requirements for desperate situations cannot be applied to normal situations. The quality of leadership cannot be created nor can be submerged. It can be polished if it is there.