UNSC Postpones Voting On Strait Of Hormuz Security Resolution

UNSC To Delay Vote On Security Resolution About Strait Of Hormuz

The United Nations Security Council is going to postpone their vote about a proposed resolution about the safety of the Strait of Hormuz. The issue has become very complicated because of conflicting opinions of major states on how to act towards the threat to security.

Major Differences Prevent Consensus

The initiative has come from Bahrain since it is currently holding the position of the UNSC chair. However, it has been heavily criticized by such countries as China and Russia. It has caused several revisions of the document and the proposal has now become less forceful.

Important Aspects of the Proposal

According to the proposal, it is allowed to apply “defensive actions” to secure safe passage of commercial vessels through the strait. However, it lacks the tough provisions of the earlier versions that were rejected by other states. Its duration would be six months and further decisions depend upon the UNSC.

Strategic Significance of the Strait

The strait is considered the most strategically valuable maritime route since it ensures one-fifth of all international crude oil transport. Thus, anything could happen there would lead to significant problems with the global economy. Nowadays the tensions have only grown due to Iran.

Questions for Exams

• Strait of Hormuz carries about 20% of global oil trade
• There are 15 members in UNSC including five permanent ones with veto rights
• The resolution was toned down because of differences between global powers
• “Put in blue” refers to the final draft ready for voting
• Silence procedure means agreement without any objection

Policy Changes and Global Implications

This example shows how divided different global actors are about how to handle the problem of security. Sources report that the USA focuses more on building pressure and making strategic decisions without getting into military conflict.