Under the "Uniting for Peace" resolution adopted by the General Assembly in November 1950, the Assembly may take action if the Security Council, because of a lack of unanimity of its permanent members, fails to act in a case where there appears to be a threat to the peace, breach of the peace or act of aggression.
The Assembly is empowered to consider the matter immediately with a view to making recommendations to members for collective measures, including the use of armed force.