Bahrain has proposed a UN Security Council draft resolution that would authorize countries to use "all defensive means necessary" to secure transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz, amid tensions with Iran.
Resolution Details
- The draft resolution, obtained by CNN, condemns Iran's actions as violations of international law and warns of adverse impacts on global trade and energy security.
- It emphasizes that ships and aircraft enjoy an unimpeded right of transit passage through the strait.
- Authorizes member states, individually or via multinational naval partnerships, to use defensive measures in the Strait of Hormuz and adjacent waters, including territorial waters of bordering states.
- The authorization would last at least six months from adoption, requiring quarterly reporting by participating states.
- Stresses compliance with international humanitarian and human rights law, while respecting third states' navigation rights.
- Clarifies that the measure applies only to the Strait of Hormuz and does not establish customary international law.
International Reactions and Vote Schedule
- A Gulf official stated Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expects Russia, after discussions with President Vladimir Putin, not to block the resolution.
- China's UN Ambassador Fu Cong opposed authorizing force, calling it legitimizing unlawful force and risking escalation, as reported by Reuters.
- Diplomatic sources indicate the vote is scheduled for Saturday morning, delayed from Friday.
Strategic Context
- The resolution aims to deter attempts to close or obstruct navigation in the critical oil transit route.
- It reflects broader concerns over regional stability and the global economy's reliance on unimpeded maritime access.