Bahrain proposes UN force for Hormuz

Bahrain has proposed a draft International — United Nations Security Council resolution to authorize the use of force to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway vital for global oil supplies. This move, backed by the United States and other Gulf Arab states, comes in response to Iran's actions of hitting vessels and threatening to close the Strait. However, the resolution faces strong opposition and is unlikely to pass due to potential vetoes from Iran's allies, Russia and China, who are permanent members of the International — United Nations Security Council. In contrast, France has circulated a more conciliatory alternative draft resolution that avoids mentioning Iran and focuses on diplomatic solutions. The United States is also deploying military assets, including the USS Boxer and 2,500 Marines, to the region, with potential targets in Iran such as Iran — Kharg Island being considered. The situation highlights significant international divisions on how to address the escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf.