Russia, China veto UN resolution on Hormuz navigation security

NEW YORK — The UN Security Council on Tuesday failed to adopt a draft resolution aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz after Russia and China exercised their veto power.The Bahrain-drafted resolution received 11 votes in favor, while Colombia and Pakistan abstained.The proposal called on states to coordinate “defensive” measures to safeguard maritime security, including escorting commercial vessels and deterring attempts to disrupt navigation through the strategic waterway.It emphasized that such efforts should remain defensive in nature and fully comply with international humanitarian law, while respecting the rights and freedoms of navigation of third-party states.The draft also stressed the need to ensure unimpeded passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions.Following the vote, Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani expressed regret over the outcome.“The Council failed to shoulder its responsibility in relation to an illegal conduct that requires decisive action with no delay,” he said.Bahrain currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council.