Bahrain Submits Security Council Resolution Allowing Use of Force to Protect Strait of Hormuz

Middle East 24-03-2026 | 08:43

Bahrain Submits Security Council Resolution Allowing Use of Force to Protect Strait of Hormuz

The closure of the strait is considered one of Iran's main objectives in this war, and shipping movement through it has ceased after Iran bombed ships during its conflict with the United States and Israel.
Bahrain Submits Security Council Resolution Allowing Use of Force to Protect Strait of Hormuz
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A document seen by Reuters on Monday showed that Bahrain submitted a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council to approve the use of 'all necessary means,' a diplomatic term referring to the use of force, to protect commercial navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and its surroundings.

 

Diplomats said the draft resolution received support from other Gulf countries and the United States, but they noted that it is unlikely the resolution will pass.

 

This move underscores the growing concern in the region that Iran might continue to threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic passage through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supplies pass, serving as a backbone for Gulf economies.

 

 

 

 

The closure of the strait is considered one of Iran's main goals in this war, and shipping movement through it ceased after Iran bombed ships during its conflict with the United States and Israel.

 

The draft resolution describes Iran’s actions as a threat to international peace and security.

 

The text of the draft resolution authorizes countries, either independently or through voluntary multinational naval coalitions, to use 'all necessary means' in the Strait of Hormuz and its surroundings, including the territorial waters of countries bordering the strait, to ensure safe passage and prevent any actions obstructing or interfering with international navigation.

 

The draft resolution also expresses readiness to impose measures, including targeted sanctions.

 

The Bahraini and American missions at the United Nations have not yet responded to requests for comment.

 

The draft resolution demands 'the Islamic Republic of Iran to immediately cease all attacks on commercial ships and any attempts to impede the legitimate stopping (of the ship during its journey) or freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and its surroundings.'

 

Two European diplomats and a Western diplomat said the chances of the Security Council approving the resolution are slim, as Russia and China, allies of Iran, are likely to use their veto power.

 

The draft resolution requires at least nine favorable votes, with Russia, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France refraining from using their veto power for it to be adopted by the 15-member council.

 

Contact was not established with the Russian and Chinese missions at the United Nations for comments.

 

Diplomats said France is also working on drafting an alternative resolution seeking United Nations authorization once the situation calms down.

 

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