The United States and its Gulf allies have proposed a new United Nations resolution aimed at pressuring Iran to stop disrupting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
The draft resolution warns that Iran could face sanctions or other actions if it continues attacking ships, placing sea mines, or charging illegal tolls in the vital waterway. It also calls on Iran to reveal mine locations and allow safe passage for goods, including humanitarian supplies.
This move comes after an earlier, weaker resolution failed in the UN due to vetoes from China and Russia, even as a temporary ceasefire between the US and Iran was announced in April.
In a statement, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused Iran of threatening global trade by trying to control the Strait, which is crucial for about 20 percent of the world’s oil supply. However, he said it’s still unclear if the revised proposal will avoid another veto.
US Ambassador Mike Waltz told the media that he believes the new, narrow proposal will gain the necessary support it needs to pass the 15-member council without triggering opposition or a veto from Iran’s allies.
The updated resolution removes language about using force and focuses mainly on sanctions. US officials believe this narrower approach may gain enough support in the UN Security Council. The proposal also supports peaceful dialogue in the region and urges countries not to help Iran restrict access to the strait.
Meanwhile, the US has been engaging in serious efforts to convince China to abstain from vetoing the resolution, including at the highest diplomatic levels as both countries prepare for President Donald Trump’s visit next week to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.