Lavrov Signals Russia May Block UN Resolution on Hormuz Strait Supported by the US

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated on Friday that a resolution concerning the Hormuz Strait, led by Bahrain and backed by the United States, is unlikely to be approved by the UN Security Council as it does not contribute to a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

During a press conference in Moscow following talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, Lavrov argued that even the softened wording allowing for "all necessary defensive measures" still leaves it to participating states to decide when the use of force is justified.

Lavrov's statements suggest that Russia may be prepared to veto this initiative, claiming it could "legitimize aggression" in the region.

The latest draft submitted by Bahrain was significantly softened following opposition from veto-wielding countries, including China, Russia, and France, which objected to the previous wording that allowed countries to use "all necessary means" to ensure the security of the strait. This dispute has delayed a vote that was initially expected on April 3.

China has also publicly opposed any wording that could legitimize the use of force. China's Ambassador to the UN, Fu Cong, warned that "any such authorization would inevitably lead to further escalation and serious consequences," urging Council members to focus on political resolution.

Meanwhile, Tehran has put forward its own proposal for managing the strait, stating that it is working with neighboring Oman on a system that would require vessels to obtain permits and special licenses to pass through this waterway.

This situation underscores the rising tensions in the region, where control over the Hormuz Strait, a crucial route for oil transportation, has become a subject of international disputes. In light of these events, the international community is closely monitoring the developments, as any decision by the UN Security Council could have serious implications for stability in the region.

At the same time, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian reached out to Lavrov for assistance in blocking the UN resolution, highlighting the importance of Russian support for Tehran in this sensitive situation. This marks the first publicly known call between the Iranian and Russian foreign ministers following an intelligence incident, indicating growing tensions and the necessity for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.