Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Tuesday that the Trump administration is introducing a United Nations Security Council resolution condemning Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz and demanding the reopening of the vital maritime chokepoint. The move marks the latest escalation in a confrontation that has sent global energy prices soaring and become a central issue in the upcoming midterm elections.
The resolution, titled "Defend Freedom of Navigation and Secure the Strait of Hormuz," follows President Donald Trump's launch of Project Freedom, a U.S. Navy initiative to escort commercial vessels through the strait amid Iranian missile, drone, and naval mine threats. Iran shut down the waterway in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes that began on February 28.
In a statement released before stepping in for press secretary Karoline Leavitt at the White House briefing, Rubio detailed the resolution's demands. "The draft resolution requires Iran to cease attacks, mining, and tolling," he said. It also calls on Tehran to disclose the number and location of sea mines it has laid and cooperate with removal efforts, while supporting the establishment of a humanitarian corridor.
The resolution is co-sponsored by Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Qatar, reflecting broad Gulf concern over the disruption. Rubio's appearance at the podium came as he fielded questions on the escalating crisis, marking his first stand-in for Leavitt since she went on maternity leave.
Trump has imposed a blockade on Iranian oil tankers and commercial shipping in response to Tehran's actions, a move that has tightened the standoff. The resulting spike in gas prices has become a flashpoint in the midterm campaign, with voters feeling the pinch at the pump. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has boasted of a "red, white and blue dome" over the strait, even as Iran accuses Washington of violating a truce.
Rubio framed the resolution as a necessary step to protect global commerce. "The Islamic Republic of Iran continues to hold the world's economy hostage with its efforts to close the Strait of Hormuz, threats to attack ships in the strait, laying of sea mines that pose a danger to shipping, and attempts to charge tolls for the world's most important waterway," he said.
The confrontation has drawn international attention, with the U.S. Navy already escorting commercial vessels like the Maersk ship through the strait. Meanwhile, Tehran has accused Washington of breaching a ceasefire agreement, adding another layer of complexity to the diplomatic push. The resolution is expected to face a contentious vote in the Security Council, with Russia and China likely to wield veto power.
