International straits

Straits used for international navigation are governed by a unique legal framework that ensures uninterrupted maritime traffic while respecting Coastal State interests. This chapter differentiates transit passage from innocent passage, emphasizing their distinct operational implications. Transit passage provides stronger navigational freedoms, including continuous and swift transit by air and sea, whereas Coastal States maintain authority over safety and environmental concerns. Legal limits on enforcement prevent interference with ships simply passing through. Case law demonstrates jurisdictional boundaries and the scope of Coastal State intervention, especially in criminal cases. The geopolitical context of strategic straits highlights their importance for naval operations, chokepoints and global trade. Overall, the Law of the Sea aims to balance sovereign regulation with the need for free global movement and legal stability.