beardedbruce, the UNSC is the only body authorized under the terms of the resolution, and by agreement of its signatories, to determine what the "serious consequences" of non-compliance with that particular UNSC resolution should be, and when they should be applied. The resolution specifically states that the UNSC decides to remain seized of the matter (chooses to continue to monitor the situation and make decisions as it develops). And it also specifically states that member nations agree to respect the borders and uphold the sovereignty of the Iraqi nation. And it also specifically states that member nations agree not to hinder, in any way, the ability of the UN inspectors to do their job. Both of these conditions place specific limits on what member nations can and cannot do under the terms of the resolution.

The fact that the US is a signatory to this resolution binds it to the terms of the resolution. The US, being a signatory to the resolution, cannot then use the resolution as an excuse to violate the terms of the resolution.