Resolution 540 (1983) of 31 October 1983
The Security Council,
Having considered again the question entitled "The situation between Iran and Iraq",
Recalling its relevant resolutions and statements which, inter alia, call for a comprehensive cease-fire and an
end to all military operations between the parties,
Recalling the report of the Secretary-General of 20 June 1983 on the mission appointed by him to inspect civilian
areas in Iran and Iraq which have been subject to military attacks, and expressing its appreciation to the
Secretary-General for presenting a factual, balanced and objective account,
Also noting with appreciation and encouragement the assistance and co-operation given to the Secretary-General's
mission by the Governments of Iran and Iraq,
Deploring once again the conflict between the two countries, resulting in heavy losses of civilian lives and
extensive damage caused to cities, property and economic infrastructures,
Affirming the desirability of an objective examination of the causes of the war,
1. Requests the Secretary-General to continue his mediation efforts with the parties concerned, with a view to
achieving a comprehensive, just and honourable settlement acceptable to both sides;
2. Condemns all violations of international humanitarian law, in particular, the provisions of the Geneva
Conventions of 1949 in all their aspects, and calls for the immediate cessation of all military operations against
civilian targets, including city and residential areas;
3. Affirms the right of free navigation and commerce in international waters, calls on all States to respect this
right and also calls upon the belligerents to cease immediately all hostilities in the region of the Gulf,
including all sea-lanes, navigable waterways, harbour works, terminals, offshore installations and all ports with
direct or indirect access to the sea, and to respect the integrity of the other littoral States;
4. Requests the Secretary-General to consult with the parties concerning ways to sustain and verify the
cessation of hostilities, including the possible dispatch of United Nations observers, and to submit a report to
the Security Council on the results of these consultations;
5. Calls upon both parties to refrain from any action that may endanger peace and security as well as marine life
in the region of the Gulf;
6. Calls once more upon all other States to exercise the utmost restraint and to refrain from any act which may
lead to a further escalation and widening of the conflict and, thus, to facilitate the implementation of the
present resolution;
7. Requests the Secretary-General to consult with the parties regarding immediate and effective implementation of
the present resolution.
Adopted at the 2493rd meeting by 12 votes to none, with 3 abstentions (Malta, Nicaragua, Pakistan).