Bahrain has introduced a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council aimed at authorizing member states to employ “all necessary measures”—a diplomatic euphemism for the use of military force—to ensure the safety of commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic waterway is vital as it facilitates nearly 20% of the world’s oil shipments, making its security crucial not only for Gulf economies but also for global energy markets.
The draft resolution, which has garnered support from several Gulf Arab nations as well as the United States, reflects growing apprehensions about Iran’s ongoing threats to disrupt maritime traffic in this critical chokepoint. Over recent months, tensions have escalated sharply, with Iran targeting commercial ships amid its broader conflicts involving the US and Israel. These hostile actions have brought shipping activity in the Strait to a near standstill, raising alarms about potential economic repercussions and regional instability.
the draft, Iran’s aggressive maneuvers are explicitly labeled as threats to international peace and security. The proposed resolution would empower countries to act individually or through voluntary multinational naval coalitions to maintain free passage through the Strait, including within the territorial waters of the coastal states bordering the waterway. This authorization extends to preventing any attempts to obstruct or interfere with lawful navigation, thereby aiming to deter Iran from further aggressive acts.
In addition to permitting the use of force, the resolution signals readiness to implement additional measures, including targeted sanctions, to compel compliance. The text demands that the Islamic Republic of Iran immediately halt all attacks on merchant and commercial vessels and cease any efforts to impede lawful transit or freedom of navigation in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite backing from Bahrain, the Gulf states, and the United States, diplomatic insiders express skepticism about the resolution’s chances of passing in the Security Council. The opposition stems primarily from Iran’s close allies, Russia and China, both permanent members with veto power, who are expected to block the measure if it comes to a vote. For adoption, the resolution requires at least nine affirmative votes and no vetoes from the five permanent members—Russia, China, the US, the UK, and France.
While Russia and China have yet to comment publicly on the draft, France is reportedly working on an alternative resolution. This alternative would seek a UN mandate to address the situation once tensions have eased, suggesting a more cautious approach to the crisis.
Meanwhile, the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the region. Three US officials have confirmed the deployment of approximately 2,500 Marines, alongside the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer and accompanying warships. However, the exact mission parameters remain undisclosed, and no decision has been made regarding direct military action inside Iranian territory. Previous intelligence assessments have identified potential targets such as Iran’s coastline or the Kharg Island oil export terminal, but these remain speculative.
The proposed resolution would be enacted under Chapter Seven of the UN Charter, which provides the Security Council with the authority to impose sanctions or authorize the use of force to maintain or restore international peace and security. This move underscores the seriousness with which Bahrain and its allies view the threat posed by Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the delicate balance between diplomatic efforts and military readiness in one of the world’s most geopolitically sensitive regions.
