I would try to make my actions (to delete) self explanatory so that posters wouldn’t feel the need to question why their posts were deleted.
I think that being a moderator is a lot like being a parent.
When there seems to be a lack of consistency, no rhyme or reason to why certain posts are deleted and not others, it leads posters to question the competency and true motivations of the mods.
I would “nip” the verbal attacks in the bud much earlier.
I also think the role of the mod presents an awesome opportunity to help yidden with diverse hashkafos and opinions be able to learn mutual respect (like a mediator).
*How would you make your actions to delete self explanatory without posting the offending post?*