UN Security Council to discuss measures regarding the Strait of Hormuz

April 7 ------ The United Arab Emirates has backed Bahrain’s call for the United Nations Security Council to act on the worsening situation in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that it is no longer just a regional issue but a threat to global stability.

Bahrain has proposed a UN resolution aimed at restoring safe navigation through the strait. However, the draft has been repeatedly revised and delayed due to opposition from veto powers including China, Russia, and France. The proposed resolution would allow countries, acting individually or in multinational naval partnerships, to take proportionate defensive steps to secure transit and deter interference, while emphasizing compliance with international law.

According to Reuters, a meeting was initially set for 3 April, then rescheduled for 4 April. Several diplomats said it had now been postponed until next week, with no new date yet announced.

Earlier language allowing the use of “all necessary means” was removed, and the latest version instead authorizes only “defensive measures” to protect shipping, an effort to avoid a veto while still enabling coordinated international action. It also includes oversight provisions, requiring states to report actions to the UN and establishing ongoing monitoring by the Secretary-General.

Supporters, including the UAE, GCC states, and Jordan, argue the measure is essential to ensure freedom of navigation, while critics like China warn that any authorization of force risks further escalation and advocate for a political solution instead.

Source: safety4sea.com