
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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