United Nations Security Council failed to adopt a resolution on Tuesday after China and Russia vetoed a draft aimed at improving the safety of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
The resolution, introduced by Bahrain, received 11 votes in favour, while China and Russia voted against it and two members abstained. It sought to encourage coordinated defensive measures to ensure safe navigation through the strategically vital waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route handling nearly one-fifth of global oil and LNG shipments, has been largely disrupted amid escalating tensions involving Iran. The ongoing conflict has contributed to volatility in global oil prices.
Divided reactions at the UN
Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani confirmed the resolution failed due to a veto from a permanent Security Council member. United States ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, strongly criticised the decision, calling it “a new low” and warning of worsening humanitarian consequences in regions such as the Congo, Sudan, and Gaza.
France also expressed disappointment, with its UN ambassador Jérôme Bonnafont stating the proposal was intended to be strictly defensive and aimed at reducing tensions rather than escalating them.
Russia and China’s position
China and Russia argued the resolution was biased against Iran. China’s envoy Fu Cong said the timing of the proposal risked sending the wrong message amid heightened tensions, while Russia’s ambassador Vasily Nebenzya proposed an alternative draft focused on de-escalation and diplomatic engagement.
Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani welcomed the vetoes, claiming they prevented the Security Council from being used to legitimise aggression.
Rising geopolitical tensions
The development comes amid broader instability in the region. Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced a temporary two-week pause on military action against Iran, linked to ongoing negotiations and demands regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
At the same time, diplomatic efforts continue, with reports indicating that talks between the United States and Iran are expected to begin later this week in Islamabad, Pakistan, as global powers attempt to prevent further escalation.
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