Diplomatic deadlock at UN as major powers oppose action on Hormuz

On April 2, Russia, China, and France effectively blocked efforts by Arab nations to secure United Nations Security Council sanctions that would authorise the use of military force against Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to diplomatic sources and UN officials, cited by The New York Times.

A vote on the resolution, drafted by Bahrain with the support of Gulf states, is scheduled for Friday, April 3.

It remains unclear whether additional diplomatic efforts can sway the three veto-wielding nations. Sources indicate that disagreements over the text also persist among the Council’s ten non-permanent members.

The contested section of the draft resolution would allow member states or multinational naval coalitions to take “all necessary measures” to ensure transit through the Strait of Hormuz and prevent attempts to block shipping.

Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, told the Security Council that Iran’s actions against neighbouring countries violate international law, including strikes on civilian infrastructure such as airports, seaports, pumping stations, and hotels.

According to sources, Iran intends to continue controlling shipping through the Strait of Hormuz after hostilities end. The coalition of Arab states in the Security Council opposing Tehran is seen as a significant complication for diplomatic relations.

Earlier, Bahrain submitted a draft resolution authorising the use of force to protect maritime traffic, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that tensions in the Middle East could escalate into a broader conflict with global consequences.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov