The United States and Bahrain are drafting a new UN Security Council resolution targeting Iran’s actions in and around the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz says the text aims to condemn Iran for blocking or restricting navigation through the waterway. Negotiations on the draft are set to take place in the coming days, after a previous U.S.-backed resolution failed when Russia and China blocked it last month.
Several outlets report that the draft resolution calls for free navigation in the strait and an end to Iranian attacks and threats to commercial shipping involving Gulf neighbours. Western diplomats cited by Reuters say the talks could move toward sanctions if Iran does not stop its conduct, and could potentially include authorization of force, depending on what the council agrees.
Additional details reported in connection with the draft include demands that Iran halt attacks and mine-laying, disclose sea mine locations, and assist in the removal of mines. Bahrain-led efforts are also reported to have gained broad support, with other countries backing the resolution framework and its objectives.
