US calls on UN to intervene in Hormuz: 'Test' for the United Nations
Sarah Shamim
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urges the UN Security Council to pass a resolution pressuring Iran in the Strait of Hormuz. The draft resolution, backed by several Gulf states, could lead to sanctions or military action if Iran does not comply. Rubio frames the upcoming vote as a test of the UN's relevance, given the Trump administration's past criticism of the organization.
On April 17, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on the United Nations to pressure Iran to "stop sinking ships, remove mines, and allow humanitarian aid" in the Strait of Hormuz. The statement came as the Security Council began closed-door discussions on a draft resolution prepared by the US along with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar.
According to the draft, if Iran does not halt attacks on commercial vessels, stop charging "illegal fees," and disclose mine locations, the Security Council could impose sanctions or even authorize the use of force. The Strait of Hormuz handles one-fifth of the world's oil and gas shipments during peacetime. Disruption of this route has driven oil prices higher and sparked fears of a global economic crisis.
The move by Washington draws attention because the Trump administration has historically been hostile to the UN. Speaking at the UN General Assembly in September 2025, President Trump questioned, "What is the purpose of the UN?" and argued that the organization has not realized its potential. He also established his own US-led "Peace Council" to address the Gaza conflict, and when asked if this council would replace the UN, he replied, "possibly."
For this reason, Rubio called the upcoming vote a "test of the UN's usefulness." He stated: "If the international community cannot unite over a simple issue like this, then I don't know what the UN system is still good for."
The latest draft avoids direct language about authorizing the use of force but remains within the framework of Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which allows the Security Council to take measures ranging from sanctions to military action. A previous resolution proposed by Bahrain, which contained language paving the way for military action against Iran, was vetoed by Russia and China in March.
Rubio acknowledged uncertainty about whether "minor adjustments" in the new draft would be enough to avoid another veto. Washington aims to conclude discussions this week, finalize the draft by Friday, and hold a vote early next week.
China's mission to the UN said it was still reviewing the draft. Russia's mission has not responded. Both countries have submitted their own draft resolutions on the Hormuz issue.
Under the draft, the UN Secretary-General would report within 30 days on Iran's compliance. If Tehran does not cooperate, the Security Council would reconvene to consider further measures, including sanctions.
