Rival UN plans aim to protect Strait of Hormuz shipping

Negotiations have commenced at the United Nations Security Council as member states weigh two competing resolutions aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Bahrain has introduced a draft, supported by the United States and other Gulf Arab states, that would authorize the use of all necessary means to protect vessels. This language, falling under Chapter VII of the U.N. Charter, would grant the international community the power to use military force or impose sanctions to maintain navigation through the strategic chokepoint.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital artery for global energy, with nearly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passing through its waters. The ongoing instability has created significant risks for global energy firms, including S-Oil Corporation, as shipping has slowed following a series of incidents attributed to Iran. The Bahraini proposal explicitly identifies Iranian actions as a threat to international peace and security and demands an immediate end to interference with lawful transit.