Russia and China blocked a UN Security Council resolution on Tuesday aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway crucial for about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. The resolution, proposed by Bahrain, was vetoed after being significantly diluted in hopes of securing Moscow and Beijing’s abstentions. The vote ended 11-2, with Pakistan and Colombia abstaining.
US President Donald Trump had warned of dire consequences if Iran did not comply with reopening the strait by his set deadline. The resolution sought to authorize measures, including military action, to ensure safe passage through the strait and prevent its closure but faced opposition from Russia, China, and France.
Mike Waltz, the US ambassador to the UN, criticized Russia and China for supporting Iran’s actions, accusing them of enabling Iran to hold the global economy “at gunpoint.” The final draft of the resolution encouraged states to coordinate defensive measures for safe navigation in the strait, calling for the protection of merchant vessels and the cessation of attacks on commercial ships by Iran.
Gulf nations, particularly Bahrain, have pushed for UN intervention in response to Iran’s blockade of the strait, which they view as a severe threat. Russia and China have blamed the US and Israel for escalating the conflict and have called for an immediate halt to military operations. In March, a resolution condemning Iran’s attacks on Gulf neighbors and demanding an end to all shipping blockades was passed by the Security Council, with Russia and China abstaining.