UNSC finalises Hormuz resolution draft

The United Nations Security Council has finalised a draft resolution aimed at safeguarding maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, but strong objections from China and Russia have cast uncertainty over its adoption.

The draft, led by Bahrain and supported by the United States and several Gulf nations, comes after weeks of escalating tensions in the Middle East that have disrupted one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

Diplomats confirmed that the text has been placed “in blue,” indicating it is ready for a formal vote, following multiple rounds of negotiations and revisions.

The central point of contention among Security Council members revolves around the use of force to secure shipping lanes.

Earlier versions of the resolution reportedly included language authorising “all necessary means” to ensure freedom of navigation – a phrase widely interpreted as permitting military action.

However, facing resistance, particularly from China and Russia, the draft was softened.

The current version limits actions to defensive measures, avoiding explicit endorsement of offensive military operations.

Despite these changes, China has maintained firm opposition, warning that any resolution that could be interpreted as legitimising force would risk escalating an already volatile situation.

Russia has echoed similar concerns, arguing that the proposal does not adequately address the underlying causes of the crisis and instead prioritises security responses over diplomacy.

France has also expressed reservations during negotiations, contributing to delays in finalising the text.

The Security Council had initially planned to vote earlier this week, but the timeline was pushed back due to disagreements among key members.

Diplomats said the “silence procedure,” typically used to fast-track consensus, was broken by China, Russia and France, forcing further consultations.

For the resolution to pass, it must secure at least nine votes in favour and avoid a veto from any of the five permanent members – the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China and Russia.

With Beijing and Moscow signalling possible vetoes, the outcome remains uncertain.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital artery for global energy supplies, carrying nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil shipments.

Disruptions in the waterway in recent weeks have already contributed to rising energy prices and heightened concerns over global economic stability.

The crisis follows a broader regional conflict involving Iran and Western-backed forces, which has led to increased military activity and restrictions on commercial shipping in the strait.

China has called for an immediate ceasefire and renewed diplomatic engagement, emphasising that long-term stability in the region cannot be achieved through military means. Russia has similarly urged a political solution, warning against further escalation.

While the draft resolution represents a compromise after intense negotiations, divisions within the Security Council highlight the challenges of reaching a unified response.

With the possibility of a veto looming, the council’s ability to act decisively on the Hormuz crisis remains in question.

Diplomats say further last-minute negotiations are likely before the resolution is put to a vote, as efforts continue to bridge the gap between competing geopolitical interests.