US and Bahrain seek UN-backed action over Strait of Hormuz attacks

WASHINGTON: Members of the United Nations Security Council are set to begin discussions on Tuesday on a draft resolution backed by the United States and Bahrain that could pave the way for sanctions against Iran and potentially allow the use of force if Tehran does not stop attacks and threats against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, according to three Western diplomats.

The move comes amid renewed military exchanges that highlighted the risks around the strategic waterway, which is a key route for global energy supplies and trade. On Monday, fresh fighting underscored tensions as the US and Iran continued to contest control of the narrow passage, putting pressure on a fragile truce that has been in place for four weeks and reinforcing competing maritime blockades.

The latest US initiative at the UN marks a shift from its recent approach, during which Washington had largely operated outside the UN system. In recent months, the US launched military strikes against Iran without first seeking Security Council approval and urged allies to take part in ad hoc naval patrols aimed at protecting freedom of navigation.

That strategy met resistance from some partners who were concerned about the prospect of an open-ended conflict and possible legal consequences. It also drew criticism from US President Donald Trump toward countries he said had not aligned themselves with US-led efforts.

Monday’s escalation included a US claim that it had destroyed six Iranian small boats, while Iranian missiles struck a UAE oil port. The developments followed Washington’s launch of Project Freedom, a US-led operation intended to move stranded tankers and other vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Draft resolution and wider strategy

Diplomats said the draft resolution is part of a broader strategy designed both to increase diplomatic pressure on Iran and to prepare for a post-conflict scenario. They said Washington has also shared with partners a separate proposal for a new multinational maritime coalition called the Maritime Freedom Construct, or MFC.

The planned coalition is intended to create a post-conflict security framework for the Middle East and help reopen the Strait once conditions stabilise.

The current draft follows an earlier Bahraini resolution backed by the United States that appeared to create a route toward legitimising US military action against Iran. That earlier effort failed after Russia and China blocked it.

Diplomats said the new text adopts a more cautious formulation. While it does not explicitly authorise force, it would still operate under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which gives the Security Council authority to impose measures ranging from sanctions to military action.

The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation, with the latest diplomatic effort reflecting growing concern over threats to commercial shipping and the wider implications for regional stability and international trade.