Russia, China block UN move on Hormuz crisis

April 7, 2026 (MLN): A proposed resolution at the United Nations Security Council aimed at safeguarding navigation through the Strait of Hormuz failed after Russia and China exercised their veto powers, blocking efforts to encourage coordinated defensive measures among member states.

The draft resolution, introduced by Bahrain, secured support from 11 council members but ultimately could not pass due to opposition from the two permanent members, according to Bloomberg.

The proposal called on nations to collaborate on “defensive efforts” tailored to the situation in order to ensure the safe passage of vessels through the vital maritime route.

The vote came after intense diplomatic engagement, particularly from Gulf nations seeking to restore stability and ensure uninterrupted shipping through the strait, which is a critical artery for global energy supplies.

The development coincided with a deadline set by Donald Trump, who demanded that Iran reopen the waterway.

The US president warned of potential airstrikes targeting Iranian civilian infrastructure if compliance was not met.

Following the vote, US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz criticized Tehran’s actions, accusing it of holding global economic stability hostage.

Drawing a parallel to the Iran Hostage Crisis, he suggested that Iran’s control over the strait could have severe consequences.

Energy markets have reacted sharply to the crisis, with prices surging since late February when escalating tensions and military strikes involving the United States and Israel triggered disruptions.

The Strait of Hormuz typically facilitates the transport of roughly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, making any disruption a major concern for global economies.

Amid ongoing hostilities, Iran has reportedly tightened its control over the waterway, introduced transit fees, and continued targeting energy infrastructure in neighboring Gulf countries.

Russia, a strategic partner of Iran, had signaled its opposition in advance. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov argued that the resolution could undermine already fragile diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.

The draft initially included provisions that could allow the use of force to reopen the strait, but Bahrain later softened the language in an attempt to avoid vetoes.

Meanwhile, regional powers such as United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are reportedly weighing deeper involvement alongside US and Israeli forces as tensions continue to escalate.

Earlier, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the importance of maintaining open sea lanes, warning that disruptions in the strait disproportionately affect the world’s most vulnerable populations by driving up energy costs and economic instability.

The failure of the resolution underscores growing divisions among global powers, further complicating efforts to de-escalate a conflict that continues to threaten international trade and energy security.

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