Russia and China Express 'Serious Concerns' over Latest Strait of Hormuz Resolution Draft

Russia and China have "serious concerns" about a draft U.N. Security Council resolution demanding Iran stop impeding shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, remove sea mines and stop "illegal seizures," according to a letter seen by The National.

The letter, which Moscow and Beijing sent to Security Council members after informal consultations of experts held by Bahrain last week, said the two countries viewed the proposal as "unbalanced and one-sided."

"We strongly believe that it will not contribute to de-escalation," the letter said, launching The National (13/5).

"On the contrary, this proposal risks exacerbating tensions and undermining ongoing diplomatic mediation efforts," he continued.

Russia and China said they "reiterated our disapproval of the text" and urged the drafters of the draft to "withdraw it."

"We also encourage a renewed focus on the negotiation process between the United States and Iran, as well as on the development of measures that will support the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement," the letter said.

As previously reported, the draft UN Security Council resolution calling for freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz has gained 112 joint sponsors, according to diplomatic sources, underlining the breadth of global concern over the closure of one of the world's most important shipping lanes.

The resolution, which was proposed by Bahrain and the United States, aims to protect international waterways, commercial shipping, and energy supplies, as well as to ensure the safety of sailors, the source told Al Jazeera.

This is the second resolution that Bahrain has submitted to the Security Council. The first resolution, which was submitted last month, was vetoed by China and Russia.

Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have joined Manama and Washington as main sponsors, while India, Japan, South Korea, Kenya, Argentina, and most EU member states have also signed on, the source said.

However, there is no date set for a vote on the latest draft resolution.

The United States has delayed a vote on a draft resolution targeting Iranian actions in the Strait of Hormuz, as it, along with Bahrain, seeks to rally broader international support.

A diplomat familiar with the discussions said more than 100 U.N. member states had committed to co-sponsor the draft.

The proposed revision resolution does not explicitly refer to Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which allows for military enforcement actions. However, analysts say some provisions could still lay the groundwork for future coercive action.

The draft states that Iran's actions constitute "a threat to international peace and security" and warns that the council may consider sanctions at a later date if there is non-compliance.

The resolution also demands that Iran disclose the number and location of sea mines planted in and around the Strait of Hormuz and refrain from obstructing international mine clearance operations.