Draft UN resolution threatens sanctions on Iran unless it opens Strait of Hormuz
Security Council resolution co-sponsored by US, Gulf nations comes amid American effort to escort ships through waterway blocked by Iran; if passed, it could be enforced militarily
by AP and ToI Staff · The Times of IsraelUNITED NATIONS — A proposed UN Security Council resolution threatens Iran with sanctions or other measures if it doesn’t halt attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, stop imposing “illegal tolls,” and disclose the placement of all mines to allow freedom of navigation.
The draft resolution, co-sponsored by the United States and Gulf nations and obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press, also demands that Iran “immediately participate in and enable” United Nations efforts to establish a humanitarian corridor in the strait to enable the delivery of vital aid, fertilizer and other goods.
Iran has blocked the strait, which served as the pathway for 20 percent of the global supply of oil and gas, since the beginning of the US-Israeli war with Iran on February 28. Iran has not opened the waterway during the ceasefire that began on April 8. The US is also blockading Iranian ports.
This week, the US began an operation to escort commercial ships through the strait. That effort led to exchanges of fire between Iran and the US, in which the US sank a number of small Iranian boats. Iran also fired missiles and drones at Gulf states.
The spiking tensions raised the prospect of renewed fighting, though on Tuesday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters the truce is “not over.”
The draft resolution is the latest diplomatic effort by the US and its Gulf allies after a watered-down resolution aimed at opening the strait was vetoed by China and Russia hours before Washington and Tehran announced their ceasefire almost a month ago.
US Ambassador Mike Waltz told reporters he believes the new, narrow proposal will gain the necessary support it needs to pass the 15-member council, without triggering opposition or a veto from Iran’s allies.
The proposed resolution, which was drafted under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter and thus could be enforced militarily, threatens “effective measures that are commensurate with the gravity of the situation, including sanctions” if Iran doesn’t comply.
It reaffirms the right of all countries to defend their vessels from attacks and provocations, and orders all other countries not to assist Iran in closing the strait or levying tolls.
The draft also “welcomes ongoing efforts to deconflict and coordinate safe and secure transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz, expresses support for ongoing efforts to seek a durable peace in the region, and encourages member states in the region to strengthen dialogue and consultations in this regard.”