US Pushes for UN Resolution Against Iran’s Actions in Strait of Hormuz

The United States is advancing a new United Nations Security Council resolution targeting Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz, seeking to reinforce its ongoing maritime operation with international backing amid escalating tensions in one of the world’s most critical trade routes.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz announced Monday that the diplomatic initiative aims to hold Iran accountable for mining international waters, threatening global shipping, and disrupting vital maritime commerce.

“The president and Secretary Rubio have instructed us to come to the Security Council in full cooperation and craft a resolution with Bahrain and the GCC countries,” Waltz said during a press briefing. “We’re working on a parallel effort at the Security Council that is separate and distinct from Project Freedom, but obviously related.”

The resolution would require Tehran to stop laying sea mines, disclose the locations of existing mines, and collaborate with the United Nations to establish humanitarian corridors used by dozens of UN agencies for global aid delivery.

This diplomatic push coincides with U.S. military operations under President Donald Trump’s Project Freedom. On Monday, U.S. Central Command confirmed American forces sank six Iranian small boats that were threatening commercial vessels, highlighting the fragility of the ceasefire and ongoing risks to global energy flows.

Waltz emphasized the broader implications of the crisis, arguing that the international community must establish clear standards regarding conflicts in strategic waterways. “We can’t set a standard that if two countries have a conflict… you can then embark on collective punishment for the economies of the rest of the world,” he stated.

The humanitarian aspect of the crisis remains a significant concern. Waltz pointed out that thousands of civilian mariners—captains, engineers, cooks, and deckhands—have been caught in the crossfire. “They had no part in this conflict. They shouldn’t be forced to suffer,” he said, underscoring the importance of ensuring safe passage and aid delivery.

The Strait of Hormuz represents one of the world’s most strategic maritime chokepoints, with approximately 20% of global oil shipments passing through its narrow waters. Iran’s actions in the region have sent shockwaves through international energy markets and shipping industries, with insurance rates for vessels navigating the area skyrocketing in recent months.

When questioned about long-term structural solutions that could bypass the strait altogether, Waltz acknowledged that Gulf partners are exploring alternatives. “I know our Gulf partners and allies are seriously thinking through that,” he said, referencing existing infrastructure such as Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline and export routes through the Gulf of Oman. “I know they’re looking at additional alternatives to frankly diversify their pathways and diversify their economies.”

While the U.S. military effort focuses on immediate stabilization—including guiding vessels and deterring Iranian harassment—the UN resolution is intended to address broader international implications and prevent similar crises in the future.

The resolution faces potential hurdles at the Security Council, where Russia and China vetoed a previous attempt in April. However, Waltz expressed optimism that the current proposal’s narrower scope, focusing specifically on clear violations of international law, might garner broader support.

The situation highlights the complex interplay between regional conflicts and global commerce. As tensions persist, the international community faces mounting pressure to protect vital shipping lanes while addressing the underlying geopolitical disputes that continue to threaten stability in the Persian Gulf.

The Iranian mission to the UN has not yet responded to requests for comment on the proposed resolution.