The UN Security Council is set to vote on a revised resolution addressing the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, though the final outcome remains uncertain after significant changes to the original proposal.
The vote is expected to take place at 11:00 a.m. (1500 GMT), just hours before a deadline issued by Donald Trump for Iran to reach an agreement or face potential military action targeting key infrastructure.
The current draft resolution has been diluted compared to earlier versions. It no longer includes any authorization for the use of force, even in a defensive capacity, reflecting efforts to avoid rejection by veto-wielding members.
The initiative was originally pushed by Bahrain, supported by the United States and other Gulf nations, seeking a mandate that could allow military intervention to reopen the waterway. However, opposition from permanent members including France, Russia, and China forced multiple revisions and delays.
The revised text instead encourages coordinated, defensive efforts by states to ensure safe navigation, including escorting commercial vessels, rather than explicitly authorising force.
It also demands that Iran immediately halt attacks on merchant ships and cease any actions that obstruct transit through the Strait. Additionally, it calls for an end to attacks on civilian infrastructure, including water, oil, and gas facilities.
The vote comes amid escalating tensions following Iran’s blockade of the strait after military actions by the United States and Israel on February 28, which have disrupted global energy markets. French Ambassador Jerome Bonnafont has indicated support for a “defensive response” framework, while analysts note the resolution represents a compromise between competing global interests.
According to Daniel Forti of the International Crisis Group, the resolution may still achieve a diplomatic rebuke of Iran’s actions, even without authorising military force.
However, the possibility of a veto from Russia or China remains, given their alignment with Iran and concerns about escalating the conflict. Historically, UN Security Council authorisations for the use of force are rare, with notable precedents including the coalition response during the 1990 Gulf War and NATO’s intervention in Libya in 2011.