A legal inquiry in the Context of G7 2025 and the Strait of Hormuz

The G7 Summit in 2025, hosted by Canada, placed energy security at the core of its agenda.

- PROF. ABHINAV MEHROTRA & DR. BISWANATH GUPTA

This emphasis continues a trend shaped by rising geopolitical instability, the global energy transition, and mounting climate concerns. Simultaneously, Iran has renewed its threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint, in response to perceived threats to its national sovereignty. These parallel developments underscore the increasing centrality of energy security in global diplomacy, economic resilience, and national defense strategies.

Energy security in the supply chain context refers to the reliability, resilience, and sustainability of the systems responsible for the production, transportation, refining, storage, and delivery of energy resources. Disruptions in any segment of this chain, whether due to geopolitical conflict, trade restrictions, or sabotage, can result in price shocks, energy shortages, and broader national security risks. Hence, many states now regard energy security as not merely an economic concern but a strategic imperative.

The Strait of Hormuz is particularly vital in this regard. It is one of the most strategically important waterways globally, serving as the transit route for approximately one-fifth of the world's petroleum. The Strait is only about 33 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, with shipping lanes just 3 kilometers wide in either direction. Located between Iran to the north and the UAE and Oman to the south, it forms a critical chokepoint in the global energy supply network.