The United Nations Security Council is expected to vote next week on a resolution from Bahrain aimed at protecting commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomats have confirmed that China opposes any authorization of the use of force.
Initially scheduled for Friday, a meeting of the Council’s 15 members was rescheduled for Saturday and then postponed until next week. The resolution, facing resistance from China, Russia, and others, has been watered down from its original version.
Following recent conflicts between the US, Israel, and Iran, which have disrupted shipping in the area, oil prices have surged. The draft resolution from Bahrain, currently holding the Security Council chair, permits “defensive means necessary” to safeguard commercial shipping.
Despite objections from nations like Russia and China, Bahrain put forward a revised draft that excluded binding enforcement language. The final draft has been approved for a period of at least six months, or until further decisions by the Council.
Chinese envoy Fu Cong has opposed any authorization of force, warning of escalation and serious consequences. A Security Council resolution requires at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes from the five permanent members.
US President Donald Trump has vowed to continue attacks on Iran and expressed confidence in reopening the Strait of Hormuz in the near future. Meanwhile, Britain has gathered support from over 40 countries to ensure safe passage through the Strait and has backed Bahrain’s resolution efforts.
