UN Security Council Votes on Watered-Down Strait of Hormuz Resolution Amid China Opposition

The United Nations Security Council is set to vote Tuesday on a resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, though the proposal has been significantly weakened following resistance from China and Russia. The revised draft no longer authorizes the use of force, a major concession diplomats hope will improve its chances of passing.

Global oil prices have spiked sharply since the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran in late February, triggering a conflict now entering its sixth week. Tehran has largely shut down the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world's most critical energy corridors — sending shockwaves through international energy markets.

Bahrain, currently chairing the 15-member Security Council, has led negotiations through several draft versions trying to win over opposing permanent members. The latest text stops short of authorizing military force and instead encourages nations that rely on the Strait to coordinate "defensive" efforts proportionate to the situation. Proposed measures include escorting merchant and commercial vessels and working to deter any attempts to obstruct international navigation.

For a resolution to pass, it needs at least nine votes and cannot be vetoed by any of the five permanent members — the United States, United Kingdom, France, China, or Russia. China previously argued that authorizing force would "legitimize unlawful and indiscriminate" actions and risk dangerous escalation.

Iran has signaled it wants a long-term ceasefire but is resisting international pressure to reopen the Strait. U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a deadline of Tuesday night for Iran to reach a deal, warning of severe consequences if it fails to comply.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that a lasting ceasefire remains the only viable path to resolving the crisis — a stance aligned with Beijing's role as the world's top buyer of oil transiting the Strait.