Abstract
Resolution 255 (1968) of 19 June 1968
The Security Council,
Noting with appreciation the desire of a large number of States to subscribe to the Treaty on the
Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and thereby to undertake not to receive the transfer from any transferor
whatsoever of nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices or of control over such weapons or explosive
devices directly or indirectly, not to manufacture or otherwise acquire nuclear weapons or other nuclear
explosive… [read more] devices, and not to seek or receive any assistance in the manufacture of nuclear weapons or other
nuclear explosive devices,
Taking into consideration the concern of certain of these States that, in conjunction with their adherence
to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, appropriate measures be undertaken to safeguard
their security,
Bearing in mind that any aggression accompanied by the use of nuclear weapons would endanger the peace and
security of all States,
1. Recognizes that aggression with nuclear weapons or the threat of such aggression against a
non-nuclear-weapon State would create a situation in which the Security Council, and above all its
nuclear-weapon State permanent members, would have to act immediately in accordance with their obligations
under the United Nations Charter;
2. Welcomes the intention expressed by certain States that they will provide or support immediate assistance,
in accordance with the Charter, to any non-nuclear-weapon State Party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation
of Nuclear Weapons that is a victim of an act or an object of a threat of aggression in which nuclear weapons
are used;
3. Reaffirms in particular the inherent right, recognized under Article 51 of the Charter, of individual and
collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations, until the Security
Council has taken measures necessary to maintain international peace and security.
Adopted at the 1433rd meeting by 10 votes to none, with 5 abstentions (Algeria, Brazil, France, India and
Pakistan). [^]