During a recent session of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), a resolution proposed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain to secure the Strait of Hormuz failed to pass. Pakistan's decision to abstain from the vote, alongside Colombia, underscores its delicate balancing act between its ideological neighbors and economic necessities. By abstaining, Pakistan aims to maintain neutrality, avoiding the risk of alienating Iran or incurring the displeasure of the United States and Gulf Arab states. The Gulf region is vital for Pakistan's economy, hosting millions of Pakistani workers whose remittances significantly bolster the nation's foreign exchange reserves. With global oil prices soaring to approximately $111 per barrel, Pakistan is keen to protect its energy security while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape. The vetoes from China and Russia, combined with abstentions, reveal a breakdown in the UNSC's ability to manage critical global chokepoints, leaving the Strait of Hormuz in a precarious state. This deadlock raises concerns about global energy stability, as the lack of a UN-sanctioned framework increases the risk of unilateral actions by the US and its allies.