Will the UN Security Council vote to authorize a multinational naval task force in the Red Sea by 18:00 UTC?

Escalating Houthi attacks on commercial shipping have crippled a key global trade artery. The US and UK are leading a diplomatic push for a UNSC resolution authorizing 'Operation Prosperity Guardian 2.0' to secure the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. A vote is scheduled for this afternoon, with Russia and China's positions unclear, creating high-stakes uncertainty. Global shipping rates are spiking, making this a critical flashpoint.