"Anyone who was reading the newspapers..."
Yes, precisely my point.
There was no serious intent to avoid it.
Members of the UN opposed it, yet were expected to throw up their hands and say, "Oh, the US has spoken! Maybe if we go along and plan for their invasion, they might pay their dues." To plan support can be construed as giving permission.
The UN organization whose mission is health and medical care has not withdrawn from the area, remaining during the bombardment and ground attack, and is continuing its work.
Regards--
Mary Anne