Freedom of Navigation
International Legal Framework
Freedom of navigation is a principle of international maritime law established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS, 1982). It guarantees the right of all states to have their ships sail through the high seas and straits used for international navigation.
- UNCLOS Part III (Articles 34–44) governs "transit passage" through straits used for international navigation — states cannot suspend this right.
- The Strait of Hormuz qualifies as an international strait under UNCLOS, giving ships (including warships) the right of transit passage.
- Coastal states (Iran and Oman) cannot obstruct transit passage but may regulate lanes and traffic separation schemes.
- India ratified UNCLOS in 1995 and consistently advocates freedom of navigation as a core tenet of its maritime policy.
● Tracked since March 12, 2026 · last seen June 15, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
International Relations
Strait of Hormuz
International Relations
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
International Relations
UN Security Council
International Relations
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
International Relations
India's Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR)
International Relations
India-Iran Bilateral Relations
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