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 the Strait of Hormuz?
The U.S. military declared it would enforce a maritime blockade targeting all vessels accessing Iranian ports starting Monday. This measure allows ships from other nations to traverse the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran had previously restricted following U.S.-Israeli strikes. The blockade follows unsuccessful efforts by diplomats to end the conflict, which erupted on February 28. President Donald Trump cited the failure of talks in Pakistan, stating Iran was “unwilling to give up its nuclear ambitions.” Iran’s foreign ministry countered, accusing the U.S. of “excessive demands and unlawful requests.”
“We are going to start BLOCKADING any and all ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Our Navy will 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.”
Trump further asserted that the U.S. would neutralize Iranian mines in the strait. “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!” he emphasized. He noted that Iran’s refusal to ensure free passage had stalled progress, despite promises to open the strait. Centcom confirmed the blockade would commence at 10:00 EDT (15:00 BST) on Monday, stating it would apply “impartially” to all vessels entering or departing Iranian ports.
According to the U.S. Navy Commander’s 2022 manual on naval operations law, a blockade is defined as a “belligerent operation to prevent vessels and/or aircraft of all States, enemy and neutral, from entering or exiting specified ports, airfields, or coastal areas under enemy control.” Initially, Trump claimed the blockade would begin “effective immediately,” later adjusting to “pretty soon” when asked by Fox News. He described the policy as “all or none,” ensuring no neutral ships would be permitted to pay Iran for passage.
International Response and Legal Concerns
The UK, a NATO ally, is not participating in the blockade, according to the BBC. Trump mentioned NATO’s readiness to assist “cleaning out” the strait, with the UK likely contributing minesweepers. A UK Government spokesperson reiterated support for freedom of navigation, stressing the need to “ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open and fast.” They also emphasized that the strait “must not be subject to tolling” and are collaborating with France and others to form a coalition for maritime security.
“A blockade could breach maritime law,” stated three U.S. legal experts. “It’s unclear whether this military enforcement would violate the current ceasefire agreement.” They highlighted the strategic use of the strait’s geography by Iran to control traffic and manipulate oil prices. Tehran has imposed high fees on certain vessels, and closing the waterway would disrupt a major revenue stream for the Iranian government—though it might also provoke escalation.
