UN Security Council Blocks Bahrain’s Proposal
In a major development, Russia and China have vetoed a resolution in the United Nations Security Council, preventing it from being passed.
The proposal was brought by Bahrain and was directed against Iran during the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Proposal Focused on Strait of Hormuz
The resolution aimed to address the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran had blocked amid the conflict.
The proposal suggested that:
- All countries should use “all necessary means”
- Every possible step could be taken, including military action
- Efforts should be made to reopen the Strait of Hormuz
- Safe passage of ships, especially trade vessels, should be ensured
This route is considered critical for global trade and shipping.
Voting Outcome in the Council
The voting in the Security Council ended with:
- 11 countries voting in favor of the proposal
- 2 countries voting against — Russia and China
- 2 countries abstaining — Pakistan and Colombia
Since Russia and China used their veto power, the proposal could not be adopted.
Understanding Veto Power
The UN Security Council has five permanent members:
- Russia
- China
- United States
- United Kingdom
- France
These countries hold veto power, which allows them to block any substantive resolution, even if it has majority support.
Difference Between Veto and Abstention
During voting:
- Abstention means not voting either in favor or against
- Veto means dire1ctly rejecting a proposal
This distinction plays a key role in UN decision-making.
Pakistan’s Abstention Draws Attention
Pakistan chose to abstain from voting, along with Colombia.
This move is being seen as significant, as Pakistan did not take a clear side despite the ongoing tensions. The country has recently shown interest in playing a mediating role and maintaining relations with both the United States and Iran.
Timing of the Vote
The vote took place at a time of heightened tensions.
US President Donald Trump had issued a strict deadline, warning that:
“A whole civilization will die tonight.”
This statement reflects the seriousness of the situation during the time of voting.
Bahrain Reacts to Failed Resolution
Following the failure of the proposal, Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani expressed concern.
He stated that:
- This is a worrying signal
- Global institutions are failing to address threats to international waterways
He also questioned whether:
- The world can be held hostage in this way
- Such actions amount to economic blackmail
Strategic Importance of Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial global route because:
- Nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes through it
- Any disruption impacts global trade, food security, and energy supply
Iran has also issued warnings that:
- Ships attempting to pass could be destroyed
US Responds to Veto
The United States reacted strongly, stating that:
- Russia and China have crossed a line
- Although veto power has existed since 1946,
- The US itself has used veto power frequently in the past
