UN Set to Vote on Diluted Hormuz Shipping Resolution Amid Divisions
New York— The United Nations Security Council is expected to vote on Tuesday on a resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with the draft significantly weakened after opposition from China to any authorization of force, diplomats said.
The revised text, circulated by Bahrain, removes earlier provisions that would have allowed the use of force and instead urges states to coordinate “defensive” measures to ensure safe navigation, including escorting commercial vessels.
The vote comes amid more than five weeks of conflict triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, which has led Tehran to largely restrict passage through the strait, a key conduit for global energy supplies, sending oil prices sharply higher.
Diplomats said the watered-down version stands a better chance of adoption but its outcome remains uncertain. A resolution requires at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes from the five permanent members Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States.
Earlier drafts backed by Gulf states and Washington had included language authorizing “all defensive means necessary,” but faced resistance from China and Russia, prompting multiple revisions. China has argued that authorizing force risks escalation and has instead called for efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Beijing was prepared to work with Russia at the Security Council to help calm tensions in the Middle East, emphasizing that a ceasefire was the fundamental path to resolving the crisis.
Iran has signaled it seeks a lasting end to hostilities but has resisted pressure to reopen the strait, while U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of consequences if Tehran does not reach a deal by a self-imposed deadline.
The latest draft reflects a compromise effort to bridge divisions within the council while addressing growing concerns over disruptions to one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes.
