THE STRAIT OF HORMUS AND INTERNATIONAL ENERGY TRADE ATTRICTIONS

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints, serving as a major route for the transportation of crude oil and liquefied natural gas to international markets. This paper examined the strategic importance of the Strait and the factors responsible for disruptions to international energy trade, including regional political tensions, armed conflicts, piracy, maritime terrorism, sanctions, and diplomatic disputes. It also assessed the implications of these disruptions on global oil and gas prices, energy security, international trade, and the economies of energy-exporting and energy-importing States. The paper further examined the international legal framework governing navigation through the Strait, particularly the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. It concluded that maintaining the security and stability of the Strait of Hormuz is essential for ensuring uninterrupted global energy supplies and sustainable economic development. The paper recommended stronger international maritime cooperation, peaceful resolution of disputes, and diversification of energy transport routes to enhance global energy security.