The United Nations is set to vote on a resolution concerning the Strait of Hormuz, as China voices opposition to any authorisation of the use of force

The UN Security Council is set to vote on a Bahrain-sponsored resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz, diplomats said Friday, though China has signalled firm opposition to any authorisation of force.

Two diplomats said the 15-member council would meet and hold the vote on Saturday morning, delayed from Friday due to a UN holiday.

Oil prices have surged since late February, when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, triggering a conflict that has lasted over a month and effectively shut down the crucial shipping route.

According to diplomats, Bahrain—currently chairing the council—has finalised a draft resolution that would permit “all necessary defensive measures” to safeguard commercial vessels.

On Thursday, Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani told the council a vote was expected Friday, expressing hope for a unified stance among members.

Backed by other Gulf Arab states and Washington, Bahrain had earlier removed explicit language on binding enforcement in an effort to ease concerns, particularly from Russia and China.

The draft resolution, seen by Reuters, would authorise the measures for at least six months, or until the council decides otherwise.

However, China’s UN envoy Fu Cong told the council that endorsing the use of force would legitimise unlawful and indiscriminate actions, warning it could further escalate tensions and lead to serious consequences.

A fourth version of the draft had been placed under a “silence procedure” until Thursday noon, but diplomats said objections—raised by China, France, and Russia—broke the silence.

A revised text has since been finalised, or “put in blue,” meaning it is ready for a vote.

For adoption, the resolution requires at least nine votes in favour and no vetoes from any of the five permanent members: Britain, China, France, Russia, and the United States.

Al Zayani described Iran’s actions as an unlawful attempt to control international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that it threatens global interests and demands a decisive response.

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit also voiced support for Bahrain’s initiative.

Meanwhile, Britain hosted talks on Thursday with over 40 countries to discuss reopening the waterway and ensuring safe transit, backing Bahrain’s push for a resolution.

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump pledged to continue military strikes but did not outline any clear plan to reopen the strait—fueling further uncertainty and driving oil prices higher.