The UN Security Council is due to vote on Tuesday on a resolution aimed at securing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, but in a largely watered-down version following disagreements between major powers, particularly with China.
The initial text included stronger measures, including the possibility of using force to guarantee freedom of navigation. However, faced with opposition from Beijing, which has veto power, this option was removed to increase the document's chances of adoption.
The current version is limited to encouraging the states concerned to coordinate proportionate defensive actions to secure trade routes. Among the measures envisaged are the escort of merchant ships and efforts to deter any attempt to blockade the strait.
The negotiations were led by Bahrain, which holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council. Several versions of the text were discussed in order to overcome the reservations of some members, including Russia and China, making the outcome of the vote still uncertain.
This initiative comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, where the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran is severely disrupting maritime traffic. The partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz has led to a drop in oil exports from Gulf countries and a surge in energy prices.
While Iran is currently refusing to fully reopen this strategic route, diplomats hope that a resolution, even a weakened one, will send a political signal in favor of international maritime security.
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