The Law of the Sea: how the Strait of Hormuz became a legal, and literal, battleground

The Law of the Sea: how the Strait of Hormuz became a legal, and literal, battleground

From Law and Disorder by Podot

April 29, 2026 · 31 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the legal and historical significance of the Strait of Hormuz amidst current geopolitical tensions.

Since hostilities between the United States, Israel and Iran developed into armed conflict, one of the key points of contention has been access to the Strait of Hormuz. One of the world's most important shipping lanes, the channel – which is just 21 to 24 miles across at its narrowest point – separates Iran from Oman. It has been subject to closure, from the Iranians, and blockade, by the Americans, all of which makes it a fraught case study for the complex, yet important, world of maritime law. To talk us through everything from 17th century piracy to the Cod Wars of the 20th century, we're joined by James M. Turner KC , a noted expert in this area. Law and Disorder is a Podot podcast. Hosted by: Charlie Falconer, Helena Kennedy, Nicholas Mostyn. Executive Producer and editor: Nick Hilton. Associate Producer: Ewan Cameron. Music by Richard Strauss, arranged and performed by Anthony Willis & Brett Bailey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Hosts: Charlie Falconer, Helena Kennedy, Nicholas Mostyn

Guest: James M. Turner KC

Topics covered

  • maritime law
  • Strait of Hormuz
  • armed conflict
  • shipping lanes
  • international relations
  • piracy
  • Cod Wars

Keywords

  • maritime law
  • Strait of Hormuz
  • armed conflict
  • shipping lanes
  • international law
  • piracy
  • Cod Wars

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Podot

Places: Strait of Hormuz, Iran, Oman, United States, Israel

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