Russia and China have jointly used their veto power in the UN Security Council to block a resolution that aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This action occurred just hours before the deadline set by President Donald Trump for Iran to allow access to the crucial shipping route.
The resolution, sponsored by Bahrain, failed to pass with 11 votes in favor, two abstentions, and two votes against from Russia and China. The veto from these two countries stalled the resolution, which was a response to Trump’s ultimatum for Iran to reopen the strait or face potential attacks on its infrastructure.
About one-fifth of the world’s oil usually passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran’s control over the waterway has caused a surge in energy prices during the conflict.
The initial resolution draft, which included authorization for the use of “all necessary means” to ensure passage through the strait, was modified in an attempt to gain support from Russia and China. However, as these veto-wielding nations opposed any offensive action, the resolution was revised to permit only “all defensive means necessary.”
Although a vote was initially anticipated on Saturday, further revisions were made to eliminate references to Security Council authorization and restrict the measures to the Strait of Hormuz.
The vetoed resolution emphasized the need for states interested in using the strait for commercial maritime activities to coordinate defensive efforts to enhance navigation safety and security in the region. Measures included escorting merchant vessels and deterring any attempts to disrupt international navigation through the strait.
Additionally, the resolution demanded that Iran cease attacks on vessels, halt interference with freedom of navigation, and refrain from targeting civilian infrastructure in the area.
Iran’s blockade of the strait is considered a significant threat by Gulf Arab states, with Bahrain, currently holding the rotating Security Council presidency and hosting the US Fifth Fleet, advocating for UN action.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in casualties on various sides, with reports of deaths in US‑Israeli strikes in Iran, Israeli strikes in Lebanon, and attacks in Israel by Iran and Lebanon. The toll includes military personnel and civilians, highlighting the widespread impact of the hostilities.
