Context: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter in a bid to establish a ceasefire amid Israel’s ongoing military attacks on the Gaza Strip, particularly in its southern region.

UN invoked Article 99 for the first time in decades as Israel attacks Gaza

• Secretary General’s Letter to UNSC: He urged the Council to help avert a humanitarian catastrophe & appeal for a humanitarian ceasefire.

Must Read: UNSC Reforms For A New Era; What The World Thinks

About Article 99 of the UN Charter

• Article 99 states: “The Secretary-General may bring to the attention of the Security Council any matter which in his opinion may threaten the maintenance of international peace and security.”
• It is seen as a discretionary power.
• UNSC Obligation: According to the UN, the President of the Security Council is obliged to call a meeting of the Council if the Secretary-General brings to the attention of the Council any matter under Article 99.

When has Article 99 been invoked in the past?

• 1960: In the wake of the Congo Crisis, Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld invoked Article 99 to address the tumultuous situation following Belgium’s withdrawal and the subsequent internal conflict.1971: During the Bangladesh Liberation War, Secretary-General U Thant invoked it to bring attention to the humanitarian crisis and urge international action.
• 1979: Responding to the Iranian Revolution and hostage crisis, Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim invoked Article 99 to emphasize the gravity of the situation and the need for peaceful resolution.
• 1989: In light of the ongoing Lebanese Civil War and the kidnapping of hostages, Secretary-General Javier Pérez de Cuéllar invoked Article 99 to highlight the need for international support and engagement.

Could the invocation impact the conflict?

• The UAE proposed a UN resolution based on this letter, demanding an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in Gaza. 
• To be adopted, a resolution needs at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes by the five permanent members – the United States, Russia, China, France or Britain
• However, it is unlikely that the vote will see permanent members’ unanimous support. The US and Britain have expressed support for Israel’s military actions since October 7.

Source: Indian Express