16.04.2026 Statement following the veto cast by two permanent members on Strait of Hormuz resolution

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Madam President,

Thank you for convening today’s debate. It is vital that when the Security Council is silenced by the use of the veto, the United Nations as a whole is not. In this fragile moment for global affairs, the international community, including through the General Assembly, must let its collective voice be heard.

Denmark strongly regrets that in the face of mounting escalation across the Middle East, the Security Council was unable to act due to the use of the veto by two permanent members. As the primary organ for the maintenance of international peace and security, this was an opportunity missed for a unified and collective response.

The conflict in the Middle East has now been going on for more than six weeks, causing death and destruction throughout the region. Iran’s actions near and around the Strait of Hormuz has led to food shortages, rise in energy prices and other adverse effects across the world. Global growth, commerce, and development depend on the freedom of navigation. The repercussions for the global economy and, increasingly, for food security, in particular across developing countries, are enormous.

As a great maritime nation, Denmark is committed to maritime security, to open sea lanes, and to the safety of all seafarers.

Denmark’s vote on April 7th reflected our belief in the urgent need to address these developments. We regret that the Council was not able to come together and present a joint solution.

Madam President,

We welcome the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran and thank Pakistan and all partners involved for facilitating this important agreement. Denmark welcomes all diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and find a negotiated settlement. A lasting ceasefire is an essential step towards a swift and permanent end to this war. All efforts and negotiations must be resumed in good faith.

This conflict, however, is not confined to Iran or its neighbours across the Gulf. The situation in Lebanon, in particular, also risks spiralling out of control and puts at risk the current regional de-escalation. Denmark calls for the inclusion of Lebanon in regional de-escalation efforts and urge all parties to work toward a lasting political solution.

It is crucial to protect civilian populations and critical infrastructure across the region. De-escalation and respect for international law, including international humanitarian law, remain as important as ever. These international rules were agreed upon after brutal lessons-learned from war and devastation. All parties must keep these lessons in mind and abide by these important legal guardrails.

Madam President,

Many aspects of this conflict have sent shockwaves across the globe. This is particularly true for the closure of the Strait of Hormuz caused by Iran’s actions. This closure is not only a disruption, but a dangerous escalation, measured in lives and livelihoods lost.

It is vital to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Denmark stands ready with our international partners to contribute to this end. We thank the United Kingdom and France for their efforts to advance this vital work.

Madam President, in closing,

In today’s interconnected world, conflict is rarely, if ever, contained to where it began. Its effects ripple across the globe, impacting countries and sectors seemingly far removed.

This is the reality we are facing in the Middle East. This too must be the lens through which we find our solutions.

We call on all parties to respect Security Council resolution 2817 and we urge all to respect and abide by the Council’s decisions.

Denmark remains committed to safeguarding peace, security and stability in the Middle East.

I Thank you.