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?
US President Donald Trump declared plans to implement a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following unsuccessful diplomatic efforts with Iran to end the conflict. The strait, a critical maritime corridor, facilitates the movement of approximately 20% of global oil and gas shipments. Iran’s strategic use of this chokepoint has been central to its approach in the ongoing tensions.
“I have also instructed our Navy to 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 stated.
Trump’s decision followed a breakdown in talks with Iran in Pakistan, where he claimed the country was unwilling to relinquish its nuclear program. Iran’s foreign ministry representative accused the US of imposing “excessive demands and unlawful requests,” while its parliamentary leader, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, noted that “the opposing side ultimately failed to gain the trust of the Iranian delegation in this round of negotiations.”
According to the US Navy Commander’s handbook from 2022, a naval 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 belonging to, occupied by, or under the control of an enemy State.” The president emphasized that the blockade would be immediate, with the US Navy initiating the measure to restrict movement through the strait.
Trump highlighted that Iran’s strategy of closing the waterway has been intentional, leveraging its control to raise oil prices and assert influence. He argued that by refusing to allow free passage, Iran has been blocking access to its strategic interests. “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!” he added, underscoring the aggressive tone of the operation.
The UK, though not directly participating in the blockade, is expected to support the effort by deploying minesweepers. A UK Government spokesperson reiterated their commitment to “freedom of navigation” and stated that the strait “must not be subject to tolling.” They are collaborating with France and other allies to form a coalition against Iran’s control.
Legal experts in the US have raised concerns about potential violations of maritime law. They questioned whether the military enforcement of a blockade would undermine the existing ceasefire agreement. Analysts suggest the move aims to pressure Iran into agreeing to terms favorable to the United States, with the “all or none” approach intended to force a resolution.
Trump framed the blockade as a necessary step to cut off Iran’s financial gains from oil exports. “We’re not going to let Iran make money on selling oil to people that they like and not people that they don’t like,” he said, emphasizing the goal of ensuring unrestricted passage through the strait. The plan also includes removing mines Iran has deployed, a task he said would be completed with the help of NATO allies.
