The United Nations has postponed a crucial vote that was set for Friday regarding the authorization of “defensive” forces to protect vessels in the disputed Strait of Hormuz from Iranian attacks. The reason for the delay was a scheduling error.
The Security Council, comprised of 15 member nations, was initially planned to meet on Friday morning to vote on a resolution proposed by Bahrain. However, that meeting was abruptly canceled just hours prior.
So, what happened?
A diplomatic source indicated that the UN observes Good Friday as a public holiday, a detail reported by AFP. This point was known even when the voting schedule was publicly announced.
According to Reuters and the Associated Press, the draft resolution includes wording that would permit countries to “use all necessary defensive measures” for maritime security.
Iran has disrupted critical shipping lanes, threatened fuel supplies, and caused disturbances in the global economy in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes, leading to a protracted conflict in the region.
Bahrain’s Ambassador to the UN, Jamal Al-Rowayei, expressed his concerns ahead of the intended vote, stating that “we cannot tolerate economic terrorism that impacts both the region and the globe.” He underlined that the entire world feels the repercussions of these actions.
He also mentioned that the evolving document has received U.S. backing and is currently in a “critical juncture.”
The latest draft seen by AFP empowers member states to utilize “any means of defense necessary in the circumstances,” whether acting alone or as part of a “voluntary multinational naval partnership.”
This measure applies to the Strait and nearby waters, aiming to “secure passageways and thwart any attempts to close, obstruct, or hinder international navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.”
However, China, as a permanent member with veto rights, is aligned with Russia in opposing any mention of force in the resolution. This opposition raises questions about its potential approval, as reported by the Associated Press.
No new date for this significant vote has been announced or confirmed by international organizations.
