The Strait of Hormuz, UNCLOS and the Law of Blockade: ANZSIL Webinar

Recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have revived urgent questions about blockade law, freedom of navigation, and the continued role of the law of naval warfare in regulating maritime conflict. When, if ever, may states lawfully close international straits? What distinguishes a lawful blockade from other forms of maritime coercion? And how does the law of the sea interact with the law of armed conflict at sea?

Join Professors Natalie Klein, Rob McLaughlin and Douglas Guilfoyle for a timely conversation examining the legal framework governing naval blockades, maritime interdiction, and international straits under UNCLOS and the law of armed conflict. Drawing on recent events and wider strategic developments, the discussion will explore the legality of attempts to restrict navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the broader implications for global trade and maritime security.

Dr. Natalie Klein is Associate Dean (Academic) and a Professor at UNSW Sydney’s Faculty of Law & Justice, Australia. Professor Klein was previously Dean of Macquarie Law School (2011-17). Professor Klein teaches and researches in different areas of international law, with a focus on law of the sea and international dispute settlement.

Dr. Rob McLaughlin is a Professor at the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS), University of Wollongong. Professor McLaughlin researches and teaches in the areas of law of armed conflict, law of the sea, and maritime security law. He engages in research activities and course delivery with the ICRC, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and other international organisations.

Dr. Douglas Guilfoyle is Associate Dean (Research) and a Professor at UNSW Canberra. He researches in the fields of law of the sea, maritime security, history of international law, and dispute settlement.

Date: Friday 15 May 2026

Time: 4PM AEST, 6 PM NZT

Format: Webinar

Registration: Please click on the register button on the left of the screen.  You will receive an automated email with the Zoom link once you have submitted your registration form.