What is a naval blockade and how would it work in Strait of Hormuz?
What is a Naval Blockade and How Would It Work in Strait of Hormuz?
Understanding the Legal Framework
A naval blockade, as outlined in the US Navy Commander’s handbook from 2022, is defined as a “belligerent operation to prevent vessels and/or aircraft from entering or exiting specified ports, airfields, or coastal areas under the control of an enemy State.” This legal framework forms the basis of the US military’s recent strategy in the Strait of Hormuz.
US Military Action and Strategic Context
The US military announced plans to enforce a blockade targeting all maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports, effective Monday. However, ships traveling between non-Iranian ports would still be permitted to transit the strait. This move follows the breakdown of negotiations to end the conflict, which began on 28 February. The failure to reach an agreement has heightened tensions, with the US accusing Iran of “unwillingness to give up its nuclear ambitions” and Iran counter-accusing the US of “excessive demands and unlawful requests.”
Trump’s Direct Statements
“BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz,” declared President Donald Trump on Truth Social. He emphasized that the US Navy would “seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran.” “No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas,” he added, asserting that the blockade would dismantle Iranian mines in the region. “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!”
Trump initially stated the blockade would start “effective immediately,” but later clarified it would “take a little while, but be effective pretty soon.” He described the policy as “all or none,” ensuring strict enforcement against vessels linked to Iranian ports.
Implementation and Coalition Efforts
US Central Command (Centcom) confirmed the blockade would begin at 10:00 EDT (15:00 BST) on Monday. It pledged impartial enforcement against ships accessing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including those in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Centcom also noted that commercial mariners would receive formal notices before the operation commenced.
Trump hinted at international collaboration, stating that NATO countries would assist in “cleaning out” the strait. He mentioned the UK, a NATO member, as part of this effort. “I understand the UK and a couple of other countries are sending minesweepers,” he said, highlighting the shared goal of restoring freedom of navigation.
UK’s Role and Legal Concerns
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has previously stated that the UK’s mine-hunting systems are already active in the region. A UK Government spokesperson reiterated support for open navigation, stating the strait “must not be subject to tolling.” They are working with France and other allies to build a coalition to safeguard the waterway’s accessibility.
Three US legal experts questioned whether the blockade might breach maritime law. They raised concerns about its potential to undermine the current ceasefire agreement, as military enforcement could be seen as a unilateral act of aggression.
Strategic Implications
The Strait of Hormuz’s narrow geography has historically enabled Iran to exert influence by restricting passage and inflating oil prices. By closing the strait, the US aims to disrupt Iran’s revenue streams, though this could escalate tensions. The move also underscores the strategic importance of the waterway, vital for global trade and energy supply chains.
