UN Security Council deadlock highlights rising geopolitical tensions over maritime security in the Gulf.
Hargeisa (Horn Post) — Russia and China on Tuesday vetoed a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council addressing security in the Strait of Hormuz, blocking efforts led by Bahrain, which currently holds the council presidency.
The proposed resolution called for strengthened defensive measures and enhanced international cooperation to secure the vital maritime corridor, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.
According to diplomatic sources, 11 council members voted in favor of the resolution, while Pakistan and Colombia abstained. The vetoes by Moscow and Beijing prevented the measure from being adopted.
Negotiations over the draft continued for weeks. Earlier versions reportedly included language under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which allows for the authorization of military force. However, the final draft stopped short of explicitly invoking Chapter VII, instead emphasizing empowering states to take “all necessary defensive measures” to ensure maritime security.
The meeting was chaired by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, who defended the draft ahead of the vote. He told council members the resolution did not introduce new realities but represented a firm response aimed at deterring what he described as ongoing destabilizing actions by Iran.
Al Zayani warned that failure by the council to address the growing militarization of key waterways could have global consequences, potentially setting a precedent for instability across other strategic maritime routes.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for global energy supplies, with a significant portion of the world’s اexports passing through it daily, making its security a matter of international concern.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
