UN General Assembly
1958

165. Three views have been put forward. The Icelandic Minister of Foreign Affairs has pleaded with great conviction [759th meeting] the cause of his courageous people, which possesses neither agricultural land, nor forests, nor mineral resources and whose entire livelihood depends on fish. These are strong arguments, but do they justify the decision that Iceland has taken? What is the use of the United Nation, if on the ground of necessity an arbitrary blow can be struck against liberties sanctioned by international custom as demonstrated by the practice of States? As was recognized by the International Court of Justice in its judgement of 18 December 1951: "The delimitation of sea areas has always an international aspect; it cannot be dependent merely upon the will of the coastal State as expressed in its municipal law. " 166. The Danish delegation has not contested the law in force but has suggested that it should be changed and has made definite proposals to that end.