
Iran may turn Hormuz into a toll route, but it violates international law
The ongoing conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel has severely impacted the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route for global oil trade. Iran has leveraged its control over the strait to impose tolls and restrict shipping, despite such actions violating international law under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The situation disrupts global oil supply chains, particularly affecting countries like India, China, and Japan. While Iran's actions may work during the war, their long-term legality is questionable, and international law, particularly UNCLOS, guarantees unimpeded transit passage.