When will Labour learn that you cannot build Jerusalem in Brussels.
Margaret ThatcherRead
Major international interventions are doomed unless the US is directly or indirectly involved. But if American politicians, officials and servicemen are to be put at risk of arrest and prosecution, the United States will be most reluctant to act in order to curb aggression or prevent genocide. So the effect of the court may well be to diminish, not increase, the numbers of (in the words of the UN Secretary General) 'innocents of distant wars and conflicts'.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses the concern that international interventions require U.S. involvement, but fear of legal repercussions could hinder action.
Margaret Thatcher highlights the complex relationship between international law and U.S. foreign policy. She suggests that without U.S. participation, major international interventions may fail, and that the fear of arrest or prosecution for American personnel could lead to a reluctance to engage in actions necessary to prevent atrocities, ultimately harming those who suffer in distant conflicts.
Themes
International InterventionsUs InvolvementGenocide PreventionPolitical RiskForeign Policy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a political debates about the role of the U.S. in global conflicts.
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