United Nations Security Council Resolution 1544

Adopted by the Security Council at its 4972nd meeting, by a vote of 14 to 0, with 1 abstention (United States) on 19 May 2004

The Security Council,

Reaffirming its previous resolutions 242 (1967), 338 (1973), 446 (1979), 1322 (2000), 1397 (2002), 1402 (2002), 1403 (2002), 1405 (2002), 1435 (2002), and 1515 (2003),

Reiterating the obligation of Israel, the occupying Power, to abide scrupulously by its legal obligations and responsibilities under the Fourth Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War of 12 August 1949,

Calling on Israel to address its security needs within the boundaries of international law,

Expressing its grave concern at the continued deterioration of the situation on the ground in the territory occupied by Israel since 1967,

Condemning the killing of Palestine civilians that took place in the Rafah area,

Gravely concerned by the recent demolition of homes committed by Israel, the occupying power in the Rafah refugee camp

Recalling the obligations of the Palestinian Authority and the Government of Israel under the Road Map,

Condemning all acts of violence, terror and destruction,

Reaffirming its support for the Road Map, endorsed in its resolution 1515 (2003),

1. Calls on Israel to respect its obligations under international humanitarian law, and insists, in particular, on its obligation not to undertake demolition of homes contrary to that law;

2. Expresses grave concern regarding the humanitarian situation of Palestinians made homeless in the Rafah area and calls for the provision of emergency assistance to them;

3. Calls for the cessation of violence and for respect of and adherence to legal obligations, including those under international humanitarian law;

4. Calls on both parties to immediately implement their obligations under the Road Map;

5. Decides to remain seized of the matter.