The following paragraphs discuss some of the measures that nations, acting in conformity with the Charter of the United Nations, may take in pursuing and protecting their national interests during peacetime. As contemplated by the United Nations Charter, nations generally rely on peaceful means to resolve their differences and to protect their interests. Diplomatic measures include all those political actions taken by one nation to influence the behavior of other nations within the framework of international law. The behavior of an offending nation may be curbed by appeals to world public opinion as in the General Assembly, or, if their misconduct endangers the maintenance of international peace and security, by bringing the issue before the Security Council. The key point is that disputes between the U.S. and other nations arising out of conflicting interests are normally addressed and resolved through diplomatic channels and do not involve resort to the threat or use of force.
Nations often utilize economic measures to influence the actions of others.
Similarly, trade agreements, loans, concessionary credit arrangements and other aid, and investment opportunity are among the many economic measures that nations extend, or may withhold, as their national interests dictate. Nations may also seek judicial resolution of their peacetime disputes, both in national courts and before international tribunals. Similarly, a nation or its citizens may bring a legal action against another nation in the latter's courts, or in the courts of a third nation, provided jurisdiction can be found and sovereign immunity is not interposed. Nations may also submit their disputes to the International Court of Justice for resolution. Article 92 of the United Nations Charter establishes the International Court of Justice as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.