The UN Security Council failed to adopt a resolution aimed at coordinating efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key point for global oil and liquefied natural gas trade that is now under Iranian control.
The measure, proposed by Bahrain, was stripped of tougher language authorizing the use of force to secure the critical waterway. Instead, it “strongly encouraged” those using it to coordinate their efforts “to contribute to ensuring the safety and security of navigation” of the strait.
The amendments were not enough to pass the resolution, which received the support of 11 members but was vetoed by Russia and China, while Pakistan and Colombia abstained.
Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, who chaired the meeting as president of the Security Council, said that failing to approve the measure "sends the wrong signal to the world."
"The draft resolution, which has not been adopted by your esteemed council, reflects an urgent response to serious developments, which created a direct threat to the freedom of maritime navigation and affected the security and stability of international trade, energy markets, and food and medical supplies," Al Zayani said.
The failed vote comes as Trump has demanded that Iran open the vital shipping lane by 8 p.m. Eastern time today or face attacks on its energy infrastructure and bridges.
“The Strait of Hormuz is too vital to the world to be held hostage, to be weaponized by any single state, colleagues,” U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz told the Security Council. “Let me be honest: Most member states here need the Strait of Hormuz more than the United States does. However, as this council knows, the United States has consistently pursued a diplomatic solution, even as we continue to achieve our objectives.”
Iran's UN ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, said the resolution would have allowed Iran and Israel to continue their "illegal actions" and would set a dangerous precedent "that normalizes the use of force."
“It is regrettable and alarming that, while in the eyes of the international community, the president of the United States shamelessly and brazenly issues threats to destroy all civilian infrastructure in Iran, including the bridge, power plants and energy facilities, setting a deadline,” Iravani said. “And openly reveals this intention to commit war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
