jordan pulse -
On Tuesday, the United Nations Security Council failed to adopt a draft resolution submitted by several Arab nations—including Jordan, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia—regarding the ongoing crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.
Voting Results:
In Favor: 11 members.
Against: 2 members (Russia and China).
Abstentions: 2 members (Pakistan and Colombia).
The resolution was not adopted due to the use of the veto by permanent members Russia and China.
Context of the Resolution
The session was held under the presidency of Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif al-Zayani, who currently chairs the Security Council for April. Al-Zayani stated that the resolution addressed Iran’s "unjustified control over international navigation," calling it a challenge that requires a firm stance against "illegal and irresponsible behavior." He emphasized that the draft aligned with international law and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Key Provisions of the Draft Resolution:
According to the latest version, the proposal submitted on behalf of the Arab coalition included the following points:
Navigation Rights: Reaffirming that all ships and aircraft enjoy the right of unimpeded transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Coordinated Defense: Strongly encouraging states to coordinate defensive efforts to ensure the safety and security of commercial maritime routes, including escorting transport vessels and deterring attempts to close the Strait.
Compliance with International Law: Requiring that all measures taken to protect navigation comply fully with international humanitarian and human rights laws.
Scope: Clarifying that the resolution applies specifically to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and does not establish new customary international law.
Right to Self-Defense: Reaffirming the right of member states to defend their vessels against attacks or provocations.
Demands on Iran: Demanding that the Islamic Republic of Iran immediately cease all attacks on transport and commercial vessels and stop obstructing navigation. It also called for an end to attacks on civilian infrastructure, such as water networks, desalination plants, and oil and gas facilities.
Future Measures: Expressing readiness to consider further measures against those who undermine navigational rights in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Regional Security: Expressing concern over the extension of maritime threats to the Bab al-Mandab Strait and highlighting the importance of protecting global maritime security.