The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on a crucial resolution regarding the Strait of Hormuz, just hours before a deadline set by Donald Trump for Iran to reopen the vital waterway.
The draft, prepared by Bahrain in coordination with the Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordan, calls for coordinated defensive measures to ensure safe maritime navigation. It also urges countries using the Strait to consider escorting commercial vessels and demands that Iran immediately halt attacks on merchant ships and civilian infrastructure.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil passes, has become the focal point of escalating tensions following US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation. While Iran has allowed limited passage for what it terms “non-hostile” vessels, ongoing disruptions have raised serious concerns about global energy supplies and trade.
Negotiations over the resolution have been intense. Earlier drafts included provisions that could have allowed the use of force under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, but objections from China and Russia led to their removal. Countries like France and the United Kingdom have instead pushed for a strictly defensive approach grounded in international law.
The resolution also calls on the United Nations Secretary-General to submit an initial report within seven days, followed by regular updates on any further threats to commercial shipping in and around the Strait.
To be adopted, the resolution requires at least nine votes in favor and no veto from any permanent member. Analysts say the move is both symbolic and strategic—bringing the crisis onto the global stage while increasing diplomatic pressure on Iran.
With oil prices rising and global markets on edge, the timing of the vote highlights the urgency of the situation. As Trump’s deadline approaches, the world is watching closely to see whether diplomacy can ease tensions or if the region is headed toward further escalation.
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