THis is the same specious argument the administration uses. "Only in extreme circumstances", which basically means "Whenever we feel like it." The rule of law, and human decency, at this point, is gone.
There is no situation that warrants torture, just as there is none that warrants slavery, or rape, or any other inhumane act. None. You either agree to give up basic human rights as a value, or not.
Sure, we'll give up human rights if it is for the good of the nation. I think Hitler not only said that, he made it law.