The United Nations is set to vote on a proposal to authorize countries to use 'all defensive means' to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway in the Middle East. The language in previous drafts included possible military action, raising concerns about the potential for escalation. The vote is seen as a response to recent incidents of tanker attacks and other attempts to interfere with international navigation.

Previous drafts would have authorized countries “to use all necessary means” — UN language including possible military action — to secure passage and deter attempts to interfere with international navigation