A UN resolution is a formal expression of the opinion or will of a UN body. It typically, but not always, consists of two clearly defined parts: a preamble which recites considerations that led to the action being taken, and an operative part which states the opinion or directive of the issuing body.
The resolution was passed five days after Israel’s invasion of southern Lebanon, which resulted in the deaths and displacements of tens of thousands of civilians. It called for Israeli withdrawal to the 1949 armistice lines, and established the “land for peace” formula that has become central to the peace process.
It urges all members to effectively utilise the United Nations mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes, including mediation, arbitration and judicial settlement. This includes respect for and the implementation of the UN Charter, including the universal declaration of human rights, the Charter on the Settlement of International Disputes and the Charter on the Environment.
The resolution reaffirmed the importance of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as the cornerstone of the nuclear disarmament regime, and urged all Member States which have not done so to ratify the treaty without delay. It also urges those States which have already ratified the treaty to promote its universal adherence and effective implementation, particularly through its progressive expansion. It calls upon the Secretary-General to report to the Council on this matter within six months.