New york: The United Nations Security Council is set to vote today on a draft resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The draft initially contained strong language but has been significantly softened following opposition from China, a permanent member with veto power, against authorizing the use of military force.

According to Thai News Agency, Bahrain, serving as the Security Council president this month, has spearheaded efforts to push through the resolution. This involved several revisions to mitigate objections from China, Russia, and other members. The latest version of the draft has omitted the clause that explicitly authorized the use of force.

Diplomats suggest that the less stringent version of the bill has a higher likelihood of approval. However, its passage remains uncertain, as it requires at least nine votes in favor and none of the five permanent members-the United Kingdom, China, France, Russia, and the United States-to exercise their veto power.