FAKE OFF – Unless there is a last-minute turnaround, the American naval blockade of Iranian ports will be put in place this Monday, April 13th in the afternoon. A legal measure, subject to several conditions
After failed talks with Iran, Donald Trump announced the establishment of a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. It is set to begin from this Monday, April 13th at 4 p.m. French time. In a press release on its website, the American Central Command (CENTCOM) specified the terms of this naval blockade.
«The blockade will be applied impartially against ships of all nations entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas […]. CENTCOM forces will not obstruct the freedom of navigation of ships within the Strait of Hormuz.»
Leaders from around the world, such as the Spanish Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, have criticized the implementation of this blockade. It is deemed «illegal» by the Iranian army, which considers it an «act of piracy». So, is this American naval blockade really contrary to international law?
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In normal circumstances, under the law of the sea, this blockade would be illegal. But in the context of the war in Iran and the Middle East, where it is «international humanitarian law» that applies – «law of armed conflict», explains Leslie-Anne Duvic-Paoli, lecturer in law at King’s College London – this is not the case.
«A naval blockade is a classic and lawful instrument of the law of war», reminds Leslie-Anne Duvic-Paoli, who is also the author of a work on The Convention(…)
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