Rising tensions push UN Security Council toward vote on protecting key maritime route

Washington / New York — April 03, 2026: US President Donald Trump said the United States could reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as the ongoing crisis with Iran continues to disrupt global oil supply and heighten geopolitical tensions.

In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said that with “a little more time,” the US would be able to restore access to the critical waterway, which remains effectively closed following Iranian retaliation to US-Israeli strikes launched in late February.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil passes, has become the focal point of the الأزمة, with its disruption triggering sharp increases in global energy prices and raising concerns over supply stability.

The conflict, now in its fifth week, has intensified pressure on Washington to secure a swift resolution, as financial markets react to uncertainty and regional instability deepens.

Trump has also reiterated warnings targeting Iranian infrastructure, while Tehran has signaled potential further retaliation, underscoring the risk of escalation.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are underway at the United Nations, where the Security Council is set to vote on a draft resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

The resolution, introduced by Bahrain, proposes authorizing “all necessary defensive measures” to ensure maritime security for an initial period of six months. The vote is expected to take place on Saturday.

Bahrain, currently holding the rotating presidency of the Security Council, has sought to build consensus by revising the draft language, with support from Gulf states and the United States.

However, China has opposed any move that could be interpreted as authorizing the use of force. Addressing the council, China’s UN envoy Fu Cong warned that such measures could escalate tensions and lead to serious consequences.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy trade, and its continued disruption highlights the broader economic and security implications of the ongoing US-Iran confrontation.