Adedokun Waliyu 
The United Nations Security Council is expected to vote on a watered-down resolution calling for the unblocking of the Strait of Hormuz, falling short of earlier proposals that sought authorization to use force.
The vote is scheduled for Tuesday, though the outcome remains uncertain. The draft resolution has been revised in recent days to avoid rejection, removing any mention of authorization to use force, even for defensive purposes.
The development comes hours before a deadline issued by Donald Trump for Iran to reach a deal or face possible US military action targeting infrastructure.
Bahrain, with support from the United States and other Gulf nations, had earlier pushed for a stronger resolution that would grant a UN mandate for military action to reopen the strait.
Iran has effectively blocked the waterway since the conflict began, impacting global trade and energy markets.
Bahrain’s ambassador to the UN, Jamal Alrowaiei, stated that the situation amounts to “economic terrorism” affecting the entire world.
However, opposition from veto-wielding members such as France, Russia, and China led to multiple delays and revisions of the draft.
The latest version encourages states to coordinate defensive efforts to ensure safe navigation, including escorting commercial vessels, rather than explicitly authorizing the use of force.
It also demands that Iran cease all attacks on commercial shipping and stop interfering with navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, while calling for an end to attacks on civilian oil, gas, and water infrastructure.
Analysts suggest the revised resolution allows Gulf states to secure diplomatic backing against Iran, while countries like Russia and China prevent escalation through military authorization.
Historically, UN Security Council mandates allowing the use of force are rare, with notable examples including the coalition intervention during the 1990 Gulf War and NATO’s 2011 intervention in Libya.
