According to reports, the UAE plans to deploy its modern navy as part of the mission and is actively lobbying multiple countries to form a dedicated force to secure the vital waterway and escort commercial shipping. The strait, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes, has seen traffic significantly reduced due to ongoing tensions and reported Iranian actions.
The disruption has raised concerns over global energy markets, with fears that prolonged blockage could keep oil prices elevated and strain supply chains across Gulf nations.
To formalize the initiative, the UAE and Bahrain are working on a resolution at the United Nations Security Council to provide a legal framework for the task force. However, opposition from Russia and China is anticipated, potentially complicating approval.
While the administration of Donald Trump supports efforts to reopen the strait, members of the NATO have so far been reluctant to participate in the escort mission.
Currently, Bahrain is the only Gulf nation publicly backing the UAE’s proposal, though efforts are underway to gain support from Saudi Arabia and other international partners.
Analysts suggest that Iran may continue to restrict access to the strait as leverage in its broader confrontation with the United States and Israel. Meanwhile, regional countries face a strategic dilemma—seeking to counter Iran while also fearing instability in the event of reduced US involvement.
As an alternative to the vulnerable maritime route, some countries are exploring long-term solutions such as expanding pipelines and rail networks to transport energy overland to Oman or towards the Mediterranean region.
