Russia and China have defended their move to block a United Nations Security Council resolution on securing navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, saying the decision has instead created room for ceasefire talks and renewed diplomatic engagement across the Middle East.
The draft resolution, tabled by Bahrain and backed by several Arab states, garnered 11 votes but ultimately collapsed after Moscow and Beijing voted against it. Colombia and Pakistan abstained.
Moscow argues the failed vote may have averted a setback to fragile peace efforts already taking shape behind the scenes.
“Thanks to the position adopted at the insistence of Russia and China, conditions have been created for reaching understandings on a ceasefire and launching a negotiating process,” Russia’s UN envoy Vassily Nebenzia said.
He added that the emerging diplomatic window should extend beyond the Gulf to other conflict zones, including Lebanon, where tensions remain high.
According to Russian officials, pushing the resolution at this stage risked complicating sensitive backchannel negotiations aimed at de-escalation. In recent days, Moscow has stepped up diplomatic contacts with regional players, including engagements led by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, urging restraint.
Russia and China are now expected to table an alternative resolution centred on an immediate halt to hostilities and support for ongoing peace efforts.
Moscow maintains that maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz cannot be addressed in isolation, arguing that wider regional dynamics, particularly those involving Iran, remain at the core of the crisis.
The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of global oil shipments, and any instability along the route continues to raise alarm over potential disruptions to energy markets.
Despite divisions within the Security Council, Russia says it remains engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure what it describes as “practical outcomes” toward de-escalation in the Persian Gulf and the wider Middle East.
The Council is expected to revisit the issue as rival proposals take shape amid growing pressure to contain the crisis before it escalates further.
