On Friday, law professor Amos Guiora penned an articulate defense of the arms blockade of Gaza. The column, which appeared in the Los Angeles Times, explains what makes the arms blockade entirely legal under international law:

The organizers make the claim that Israel's blockade violates international law. That's a catchy accusation, but it's wrong in law and in fact.

According to international law, states can declare and impose a sea blockade as a means to prevent contraband from being smuggled into their territory. For the blockade to be lawful, the contraband must pose a danger to the nation-state. "Due notice" must be given that a blockade is in effect and that it will be defended. Israel's Gaza sea blockade meets these requirements.

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