Dr. Moritz Brake argues that blocking the Strait of Hormuz would not only constitute a serious interference with international shipping but, under international law, could also be considered an act of war that would directly affect Europe. Blocking key sea lanes would jeopardize global supply chains, exacerbate the supply situation for energy and strategically important raw materials, and have significant humanitarian consequences, particularly in fragile regions.
At the same time, Dr. Brake warns of the high vulnerability of modern economies to disruptions in maritime trade routes. Dependence on efficient supply chains, limited military capabilities to defend against new threats such as drones, and the risk of further attacks on strategic sea lanes make it clear that maritime security has become a central European security issue. Europe must therefore strengthen its resilience, better protect critical infrastructure, and raise public awareness of security policy challenges.