Russia and China vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, despite most members voting in favor.

The vote came just hours before President Donald Trump’s deadline for Iran to stop threatening the key waterway or face potential U.S. strikes.

The resolution had already been weakened to focus only on defensive measures and remove authorization for military force in an effort to avoid a veto.

It called on Iran to halt attacks on commercial vessels and ensure safe navigation through the strait, Fox News has reported.

U.S. and allied officials warned the veto sends a dangerous signal about protecting global trade routes, while Iran argued the measure would encourage further U.S. and Israeli actions.