Bahrain Proposes UN Resolution on Iran’s Actions in the Strait of Hormuz
On Monday afternoon, reports emerged indicating that Bahrain is drafting a resolution for the United Nations aimed at allowing nations to take “all necessary means” to prevent Iran from interfering with trade in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Bahrain government hasn’t made any official statements regarding this draft, nor have other countries responded as of now. Some media outlets have reported they obtained a copy of the draft, which is being shared within the U.N. Security Council, which holds significant authority within the UN. The phrase “all necessary means” suggests that the resolution could authorize military action against Iran to safeguard international commerce. Recently, Iranian officials have threatened to strike civilian vessels in the strait or mine vital shipping routes, citing ongoing U.S. military efforts to confront Iran’s global terrorism activities.
The draft outlines concerns over Iran’s behavior, asserting that its threats and actions in the Strait of Hormuz present risks to international peace and security. It states, “We find that Iran’s actions, including repeated threats and attacks on merchant ships and efforts that hinder navigation, pose a threat to global safety.”
Furthermore, the document permits member states, either acting individually or through multinational naval coalitions that have notified the Security Council, to utilize “all necessary means” to assure secure transit and to neutralize any efforts aimed at obstructing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. This authorization would remain in effect until the Security Council decides otherwise.
Interestingly, Iran has reportedly seen a copy of the resolution and expressed concerns that the phrase “by all necessary means” might apply to territorial waters of nearby nations, calling for a stop to attacks on commercial shipping and any actions that disrupt navigation in the region.
Some diplomats believe the draft has backing from Gulf Arab nations and the United States but might not pass easily. For a resolution to pass, nine out of the 15 Security Council members must agree, though no votes against are needed from the five permanent members. While the U.S., France, and the U.K. might support the proposal, it seems unlikely that close Iranian allies like China and Russia would back it.
Interestingly, during a previous vote regarding Iran, both China and Russia abstained rather than vetoing the resolution, which condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks against several countries, including those in the Gulf region. Bahrain also expressed concerns over these attacks, describing them as “terrible” and “deplorable.” All Security Council members approved the resolution except for China and Russia, who abstained.
This recent resolution highlights concerns over Iran without attributing blame to U.S. and Israeli actions against it. Tensions escalated after U.S. military operations aimed at countering the threats posed by Iran were announced. Iran’s support for various militant groups has led to increased hostilities, with drone and missile strikes allegedly targeting multiple nations, including some not directly involved in the conflict.
In retaliation, Iran has threatened to disrupt trade in the Strait of Hormuz, mentioning actions that could send oil prices soaring. Iranian officials have suggested potentially using violent measures or imposing tolls on trade routes, with some proposing environmental risks like landmines in the region.
In response, Saudi Arabia recently hosted a summit with foreign ministers from several nations, strongly condemning Iran’s attacks on civilian infrastructure. The Saudi Foreign Minister noted, “What little trust there was has been completely shattered,” emphasizing the long path ahead to rebuild relations.
Interestingly, earlier this year, Saudi Arabia and Iran normalized relations through Chinese mediation, with an announcement that Iranian diplomats would be leaving the country soon.
