Which article prohibits the use of force except as authorized?

• A. Article 2(4) prohibits the use of force except as authorized.
• B. Chapter VII authorizes collective action.
• C. Article 51 recognizes the inherent right of self-defense.
• D. Preamble defines purposes and principles.

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that the use of force in international relations is generally prohibited by the UN Charter, with two clear ways it can be legally allowed. Article 2(4) states that states shall not use or threaten to use force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. The rule isn’t absolute: force is allowed when there is authorization under the Charter, notably in self-defense if an armed attack occurs (Article 51) or when the UN Security Council authorizes collective action under Chapter VII. Saying that this article prohibits the use of force except as authorized accurately reflects both the blanket prohibition and its legitimate exceptions.

Chapter VII is about when the Security Council can authorize force, not the universal prohibition itself. Article 51 recognizes an exception—self-defense—rather than presenting the general rule. The Preamble defines purposes and principles of the UN but does not establish the legal rule about the use of force.