[…] The US sanctions are aimed at crippling Iran’s economy. Fifteen per cent of crude oil and close to 30 per cent of refined oil destined for Australia transits through the Strait of Hormuz.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday that contributing to an international effort in the area was ”to ensure we maintain free flow of commerce and freedom of navigation which is essential to our security and to our economy”. […]
Australia is sending HMAS Toowoomba, with 177 sailors. According to the Navy, it is ”a long-range frigate capable of air defence, surface and undersea warfare, surveillance, reconnaissance and interdiction”. […]
There are doubts over exactly what can and cannot be done by Australia’s warship in the Strait of Hormuz. International shipping lanes designated by the International Maritime Organisation run across both Omani and Iranian territorial waters. Donald Rothwell, international law professor at ANU, said the Strait of Hormuz was recognised as an international shipping route. Läs artikel