United nations: The US warned Iran on Tuesday that its seizure of the Strait of Hormuz could be the regime's "last act," after Russia and China vetoed a Bahraini-led resolution at the UN Security Council to reopen the critical waterway by "defensive" measures.
According to Anadolu Agency, US envoy Mike Waltz addressed the Council following the veto by Russia and China of a draft resolution. The resolution called for states to "coordinate efforts, defensive in nature, commensurate to the circumstances, to contribute to ensuring the safety and security of navigation across the Strait of Hormuz." It further aimed to deter any attempts to close, obstruct, or interfere with international navigation through this strategic channel. The draft received 11 votes in favor, with Colombia and Pakistan abstaining.
Waltz highlighted the global impact of the blockade, stating, "UN and international humanitarian groups delivering medical aid, shelter supplies, and food to humanitarian crises in the Congo, in Sudan, in Gaza cannot pass through the Strait." He emphasized the critical nature of the waterway for global humanitarian efforts and the world economy, asserting that "no one should tolerate" such an obstruction.
Addressing the vetoing powers, Waltz described the move as a "new low," accusing Moscow and Beijing of supporting Iran's aggressive stance. He alleged that Russia has become a significant military supplier to Iran, providing combat aircraft, helicopters, and other military equipment. Additionally, he claimed that China imports a substantial portion of Iran's illicit oil and supplies components used in attack drones and ballistic missiles.
Waltz stressed the importance of the Strait of Hormuz to member states, stating that "most member states here need the Strait of Hormuz more than the United States does." Despite the heightened tensions, he affirmed that the US remains committed to diplomacy, stating, "The US remains prepared for meaningful diplomacy," even as American forces continue to achieve their objectives in Operation Epic Fury.