China and Russia Veto UN Resolution to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

China and Russia vetoed a United Nations Security Council draft resolution calling for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in March 2026 ^[1].

The failure of the measure leaves a critical global shipping artery blocked and thousands of maritime workers in peril. Because the Strait of Hormuz is a primary transit point for global energy, the deadlock threatens international trade and fuel stability.

The draft resolution sought to protect the freedom of navigation and address Iranian attacks on commercial shipping ^[1], ^[2]. These attacks began in late February 2026 during the onset of the Iran-U.S. conflict ^[1], ^[3]. Despite the vetoes from the two permanent members of the Security Council, 130 UN member states had signed the draft resolution ^[1].

Reports indicate that the maritime crisis has created a humanitarian emergency for those trapped by the conflict. Close to 20,000 sailors have been stranded inside the Gulf since the war began ^[1]. The resolution was intended to secure the strategic waterway in the Gulf of Oman, and ensure that commercial vessels could move safely without fear of attack ^[2], ^[4].

While some reports indicated the Security Council was weighing an emergency meeting as support for the resolution grew, the process moved toward a formal vote ^[1], ^[3]. That vote ultimately resulted in the blocking of the measure by the Russian and Chinese delegations ^[2], ^[5].

The UN spokesperson and reporter Gabriel Elizondo said the diplomatic tension surrounding the vote is growing ^[1]. The deadlock reflects the deep geopolitical divide between the permanent members of the Security Council regarding the conflict in the region ^[2], ^[4].