China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong said that the UN Security Council’s actions must not grant a license for the use of force or further escalate tensions.
The Security Council failed to adopt a draft resolution that “strongly encourages” states using commercial maritime routes in the Strait of Hormuz to coordinate defensive efforts, including escorting merchant and commercial vessels.
Eleven members voted in favor, China and Russia voted against, while Colombia and Pakistan abstained.
In explaining China’s vote, Fu said the conflict in Iran and its spillover continues to severely impact regional and global peace, disrupt the global economy, and create widespread instability.
He criticized the U.S. and Israel for launching military strikes against Iran without UN authorization while negotiations were underway. “This is in clear violation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms of international relations,” he said.
Fu emphasized that the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Gulf states must be respected, civilians and non-military targets protected, and shipping lanes and energy infrastructure safeguarded.
He added that the draft resolution should have addressed the root causes of the conflict and promoted dialogue. Instead, it contained one-sided condemnation and authorization for armed escorts, which he warned could be misinterpreted or abused.
“At a time when U.S. threats endanger the very survival of a civilization, adoption of this draft would send the wrong message with serious consequences,” Fu stressed.
China called for cessation of hostilities, describing the conflict as one that should never have occurred. Fu said the disruption of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz stems from illegal U.S. and Israeli military actions, and urged both to cease immediately. He also called on Iran to stop attacks on Gulf facilities and restore normal navigation.
Fu highlighted China’s ongoing efforts to restore peace in the Gulf and Middle East, stating readiness to work with all parties for early stabilization.
He added that China and Russia jointly submitted a Security Council draft resolution that is objective and fair, aimed at easing tensions, promoting dialogue, and upholding navigational rights, and expressed hope for broad support from Council members.