Bahrain has circulated an updated draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz. The revised text retains language permitting the use of “all necessary means” but omits a direct reference to binding enforcement measures.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime passage through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply transits, playing a vital role in the economies of Gulf countries. Shipping activity in the area has nearly come to a standstill following attacks on vessels linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Initially, Bahrain’s draft resolution, supported by Gulf Arab states and the United States, explicitly cited Chapter VII of the U.N. Charter. This chapter empowers the Security Council to authorize a range of actions, including sanctions and military force. However, diplomats indicated that such a resolution was unlikely to pass due to anticipated vetoes from Russia and China, who are allies of Iran.
For a Security Council resolution to be adopted, it must secure at least nine affirmative votes and avoid vetoes from any of the five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, and France.
The revised draft removes the explicit Chapter VII reference but maintains language consistent with it. It authorizes states, either independently or through voluntary multinational naval coalitions, to employ “all necessary means commensurate with the circumstances” in the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman. The goal is to ensure safe passage and prevent interference with international navigation, including within or near territorial waters.
Additionally, the draft encourages countries dependent on commercial maritime routes through the strait to coordinate their defensive measures, such as escorting merchant vessels. Diplomats have indicated a tentative plan to bring the resolution to a vote on Thursday, though negotiations are ongoing.
