Bahrain's Push for UN Resolution on Strait of Hormuz Faces Challenges

Bahrain is leading an initiative at the United Nations to authorize measures, including the use of force, to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor. This effort comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, which have effectively closed the strait, disrupting global oil supplies and causing prices to soar.

Bloomberg

The Strait of Hormuz is vital for international trade, with approximately 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas transiting through it. The ongoing conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, has seen Iran retaliate against U.S. and Israeli strikes by targeting commercial vessels, leading to a near halt in shipping through the strait.

Bloomberg

Bahrain, currently serving as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, has circulated a revised draft resolution aimed at garnering support from other nations, particularly Gulf states and Western allies. The United States, under President Donald Trump, initially supported a robust military response but has since shifted its stance, suggesting that NATO allies should take the lead in securing the strait.

The Jerusalem Post

Bahraini UN Ambassador Jamal Fares Alrowaiei stated that the resolution requires "a lot of work" to achieve consensus among Security Council members. He emphasized ongoing discussions to refine the draft and secure necessary support. Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has been actively advising Bahrain on the resolution, aiming to maximize its chances of adoption.

The Jerusalem Post

Despite Bahrain's efforts, significant opposition exists. Russia and China, both permanent members of the Security Council, are expected to veto any resolution that explicitly authorizes military action. A revised draft has removed direct references to binding enforcement under Chapter VII of the UN Charter but retains language that could still imply military action. France has proposed an alternative resolution focused on diplomatic solutions rather than military intervention.

The Jerusalem Post

While Bahrain's initiative has garnered support from Gulf nations and the U.S., the UAE has also called for UN authorization for military measures to ensure safe navigation in the strait. However, many countries remain hesitant to commit to military action while the conflict persists, reflecting a divide in international responses to the crisis.

Bloomberg

The UN Security Council is expected to continue discussions on Bahrain's draft resolution, with a tentative aim to put the text to a vote soon. The outcome remains uncertain, as the need for at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes from permanent members complicates the path forward.

Reuters

• “There are ongoing communications and discussions with the Council members to bring a convergence of views and find a draft that can garner consensus, so that it can be adopted soon,” — Jamal Fares Alrowaiei, Bahraini UN Ambassador

The Jerusalem Post

• “It’s very important for a lot of countries, even in this sort of very turbulent time, to at least have the sort of shield of UN authority for engaging in the use of force,” — Richard Gowan, International Crisis Group Expert

Bloomberg

• “On Wednesday, France hit back at Trump's threats, saying the military alliance was designed to ensure security in the Euro-Atlantic area and not to launch offensive operations in the Strait of Hormuz.” — French Naval Chief Admiral Nicolas Vaujour

The Jerusalem Post

This ongoing diplomatic effort highlights the complexities of international relations and the challenges of addressing security threats in a volatile region.

Politico Europe