Bahrain Circulates Revised UN Draft on Strait of Hormuz Security

Bahrain has circulated a revised draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council aimed at enhancing the security of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. This critical waterway is responsible for approximately one-fifth of global oil supplies and has recently experienced a significant slowdown in shipping traffic due to Iranian attacks on vessels amid ongoing tensions with the United States and Israel. The new draft retains language that authorizes “all necessary means” to protect navigation but notably removes an explicit reference to binding enforcement under Chapter VII of the U.N. Charter, which would permit measures such as sanctions or military action.

Bahrain revises UN Hormuz resolution, drops binding clauseThe New ArabUsNews and World Report

The initial draft resolution, which had backing from other Gulf Arab states and the United States, explicitly invoked Chapter VII, making its adoption unlikely due to expected vetoes from Iran's allies, Russia and China. The revised text, still under negotiation, allows states to act independently or through voluntary multinational naval coalitions to ensure safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman. It also encourages nations reliant on these maritime routes to coordinate defensive efforts, including the escort of merchant vessels.

UsNews and World ReportBahrain revises UN Hormuz resolution, drops binding clauseThe New Arab

In response to escalating tensions, Bahrain's Interior Ministry announced a maritime curfew from 6:00 PM to 4:00 AM local time to enhance security and protect seafarers. This decision follows reports of an Iranian attack that resulted in a fire at a company facility, although details regarding casualties or the extent of the damage have not been disclosed.

The New Arab

The decision to drop the binding enforcement clause has drawn mixed reactions. Some diplomats believe that the revised resolution may be more palatable to the Security Council, potentially increasing its chances of adoption. However, critics argue that the absence of binding enforcement weakens the resolution's effectiveness in deterring further Iranian aggression in the region.

Bahrain revises UN Hormuz resolution, drops binding clause

Bahrain's government has emphasized the necessity of the revised resolution to safeguard maritime navigation in light of recent Iranian actions. The Interior Ministry stated that the maritime curfew aims to "safeguard the safety of seafarers and sea-goers and to enhance the security of Bahrain's coastlines amid the blatant Iranian aggression."

The New Arab

Diplomats have indicated a tentative plan to bring the revised draft resolution to a vote on Thursday, although ongoing negotiations may alter the timeline. The outcome will depend on the support it garners from Security Council members and the potential for vetoes from permanent members.

UsNews and World Report

• “The new text still authorises states to use “all necessary means” to protect navigation but avoids invoking Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which would have allowed sanctions or military action.” — Diplomatic Source

Bahrain revises UN Hormuz resolution, drops binding clause

• “to safeguard the safety of seafarers and sea-goers and to enhance the security of Bahrain's coastlines amid the blatant Iranian aggression” — Bahrain's Interior Ministry

The New Arab