03 Apr 2026 - 09:04
The Kabul Tribune (KT) - According to Reuters, the United Nations Security Council is set to vote on a resolution proposed by Bahrain aimed at protecting commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
However, China, which holds veto power in the Council, has expressed opposition to any authorization allowing the use of force, creating uncertainty over the resolution’s approval.
Diplomats said the vote, originally expected on Friday, has been rescheduled for Saturday morning due to a U.N. holiday.
The draft resolution, backed by several Gulf Arab states and the United States, calls for “all defensive means necessary” to secure commercial shipping in the region. Earlier versions were revised after concerns were raised by members including China and Russia.
The proposal would authorize protective measures for at least six months, or until the Council decides otherwise. Adoption requires at least nine votes in favor and no veto from any of the five permanent members: the United States, Britain, China, France, and Russia.
Tensions in the region have escalated following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, contributing to rising oil prices and heightened concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.
