Bahrain's UN proposal to open Strait of Hormuz faces opposition
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- A U.N. Security Council draft resolution proposed by Bahrain calls for countries to use "all necessary means," including military action, to keep the Strait of Hormuz open amid Iran's attempts to block navigation.
- The resolution demands Iran cease attacks on commercial vessels and stop interfering with navigation, highlighting the strait's importance to international trade and global energy security.
- Some council members, including China and Russia, oppose the draft, particularly its placement under Chapter Seven of the U.N. Charter, which permits enforcement measures such as sanctions or military force.
- France introduced a separate, non-confrontational resolution urging de-escalation and diplomacy without mentioning Iran or invoking Chapter Seven, reflecting divisions within the council.
- Due to disagreements, neither resolution is expected to be voted on soon; meanwhile, Iran's actions have effectively closed the strait, disrupting nearly all tanker traffic and impacting about one-fifth of the world's oil supply.
