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UN Security Council Alters Hormuz Strait Resolution to Avoid Veto

The UN Security Council has revised a resolution to safeguard shipping in the Strait of Hormuz by eliminating force authorization language to avoid Chinese and Russian vetoes. The strait has been closed since the US-Israeli war with Iran, severely impacting global trade. The new draft promotes defensive coordination and demands Iran stop attacks on commercial ships, while also addressing Red Sea threats from the Houthis. The vote is rescheduled for Tuesday after delays, reflecting diplomatic hurdles. This shift underscores efforts to balance security needs with international consensus in a volatile region.

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UN Security Council Alters Hormuz Strait Resolution to Avoid Veto

The United Nations Security Council has revised a draft resolution to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, removing language on the use of force to prevent vetoes from China and Russia, according to a Gulf source.

Background on the Strait Crisis

  • The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway between Iran and Oman linking the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, has been effectively closed since the start of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.
  • This closure disrupts global oil shipments and maritime trade, raising significant economic and security concerns.

Key Changes in the Draft Resolution

  • The initial draft authorized "all defensive means necessary" to secure passage and included naval action provisions.
  • Facing resistance from China and Russia, the new draft omits force authorization and was amended multiple times.
  • Revised elements include:
    • Encouraging countries to coordinate defensive efforts commensurate to circumstances.
    • Demanding Iran immediately cease all attacks on commercial vessels.
    • Requesting the UN secretary-general report on further Iranian attacks.
    • Expressing concern over threats in the Strait of Bab Al Mandab, linked to Houthi actions.

Vote Schedule and Diplomatic Dynamics

  • The vote was postponed from Friday to Saturday and is now set for Tuesday at 11:00 am ET.
  • China and Russia opposed the earlier version due to the force clause, risking a veto.
  • The amendments aim to build consensus and ensure the resolution's passage amid ongoing tensions.
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