Freedom of Navigation and the Law of the Sea
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS, 1982) guarantees the right of "transit passage" through international straits used for navigation (Part III, Articles 37-44). The Strait of Hormuz qualifies as an "international strait" under UNCLOS. Iran's IRGC blockade violates the transit passage rights of ships of all flags — but Iran, which ratified UNCLOS, contends that its closure is a legitimate act of war under existing hostilities.
- UNCLOS Article 38: All ships enjoy right of transit passage through international straits
- UNCLOS Article 44: States bordering straits must not obstruct transit passage
- Iran ratified UNCLOS in 1996; however, it has reservations on some provisions
- The Strait of Hormuz is 39 km wide at the narrowest point; the shipping lane is only 3.2 km (two lanes of 2 miles each) due to shallow waters
● Tracked since April 06, 2026 · last seen June 27, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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