The UN Security Council is expected to vote Tuesday on a watered-down resolution calling for the unblocking of the Strait of Hormuz, falling short of the Gulf sponsors’ initial goal of authorizing force.
Key points:
- The draft no longer mentions authorization to use force, even defensively.
- Bahrain, backed by the US and Gulf allies, initiated the resolution after Iran imposed an effective blockade following the US-Israel war on February 28.
- The resolution demands Iran immediately cease attacks on merchant vessels and civilian infrastructure and encourages coordinated defensive measures for navigation safety.
- Permanent members Russia and China may veto the text, which is why previous votes were delayed.
- The vote comes hours before Donald Trump’s midnight deadline for Iran to make a deal or face US military action.
Experts say the resolution aims to secure a diplomatic rejection of Iran’s blockade while avoiding escalation to military intervention.
