“The Strait of Hormuz cannot be treated as a tool of political pressure in every crisis. What happened recently, despite the subsequent declaration of calm by Donald Trump, revealed the fragility of the situation in one of the most important sea lanes in the world. It is true that tension has temporarily decreased, and that Iran has announced that the Strait will remain open with conditions, but the real question is not what is happening now, but rather what may happen tomorrow.”
The entire world cannot bear the repetition of such volatile situations.
Closing the strait, or even just threatening to close it, not only harms the Gulf states, but also ravages the entire global economy, because a large part of the vital energy supply passes through this narrow waterway. With every crisis of this kind, international confidence is shaken, risks rise, and global markets pay a heavy price.
But surprisingly, the solution is not as complicated as it may seem at first glance. International law has already laid the necessary foundations for resolving this problem. Since the founding of the United Nations, a clear and integrated legal system has been developed, the most prominent example of which is the Convention on the Law of the Sea, which guarantees freedom of passage in international straits without any obstacles. In addition, the International Maritime Organization has established precise regulations to regulate the movement of ships, with the aim of ensuring safety and smooth navigation.
In other words, the rules already exist. What is lacking is actual implementation and strict adherence to these rules.
No country, including Iran, has a legal “right” to close any international strait or impose restrictions that impede navigation in it. Even in the presence of border disputes, freedom of passage remains a fundamental principle that cannot be bypassed under any circumstances. Ignoring these rules does not create lasting influence, but rather leads to the accumulation of crises and deepening isolation.
Based on this, it is clear that the solution cannot be unilateral, nor can it be a temporary or circumstantial solution. What is required is to reach a clear and frank regional agreement, in which Iran and the Gulf states participate, that establishes clear and stable operating rules for the Strait, based on international law, and taking into account the geographical and political reality of the region.
This agreement is not just a diplomatic luxury, but rather an urgent strategic necessity.
The countries of the region are the most dependent on this strait, and are the most affected by any disturbances that occur in it. The continued state of uncertainty threatens its interests more than any other party. Restoring the confidence of the international community requires an unquestionable collective commitment to freedom of navigation.
Ultimately, no one benefits from disrupting shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. As for the agreement, it gives everyone what they need: stability, the safe flow of energy supplies, and an easing of tensions.
The real bet is not on who controls the strait, but on who ensures that it remains open.”
