Analysis Legal-Political Requirements of Iran’s Hormuz Strait Blockade(as Deterrence) in Gray war with Israel

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Shiraz University

2 MA student in International relations(Political Science), Department of Political Science, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.

10.22099/jls.2026.55482.5467

Abstract

This study examines the legal and political prerequisites for Iran to use a Strait of Hormuz blockade as a deterrent in its gray‑zone conflict with Israel. The combination of legal ambiguities over transit passage and the high political‑economic risks of such action creates a decision‑making dilemma, lacking a practical framework to assess its legality, effectiveness, and cost‑benefit. The central question is: What conditions must be met for this tool to be legitimate, effective, and low‑cost? Through qualitative content analysis of international documents and strategic sources, and within a conceptual framework integrating deterrence theory, gray‑zone warfare, the law of the sea, and energy political economy, the hypothesis that four conditions must be simultaneously met legal legitimacy, Iran’s unique legal posture, political‑strategic requirements, and economic‑interest safeguards was tested. Findings show that the absence of any pillar severely undermines deterrence and risks strategic self‑harm. The study’s innovation is its integrated interdisciplinary analysis, bridging legal and strategic studies to offer an operational assessment framework for this high‑risk option.

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Journal of Legal Studies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 10 February 2026

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