Political Thinking with Nick Robinson 'We cannot have chaos': Emily Thornberry on the law of war and Labour's struggles
13 snips
Mar 6, 2026 
Emily Thornberry, Labour MP and chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee with a legal background in international law. She discusses UK limits on action against Iran and the importance of respecting laws of war. She reflects on the JCPOA’s collapse, her family’s UN peacekeeping roots, and how Labour should reconnect with voters amid Green gains.
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Why International Law Stops Unchecked Military Action
- International law prevents chaos by restricting unilateral military action.
- Emily Thornberry explains you cannot just bomb a country because you dislike it; only legitimate self-defence permits force under the rules she describes.
Why Starmer's Stance On Trump Was Strategic Not Just Brave
- Political calculations shape how leaders confront allied powers, not just courage.
- Thornberry says Keir Starmer's approach to Donald Trump reflects trade and Ukraine support interests, explaining the need for a 'Trump whisperer.'
Keep Britain Committed To The Rules Based Order
- Abide by international law because middle powers benefit from a rules-based system.
- Thornberry argues Britain should model lawful behaviour to persuade others and avoid a slippery slope of great powers 'whacking each other.'