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This collection of three articles, prepared by members of Monckton Chambers, analyses the principal issues for English law contracts arising from the outbreak of hostilities between the United States, Israel and Iran in February 2026 and the resulting closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The first article examines force majeure under English law, addressing the critical distinction between “prevention” and “hindrance” thresholds and their application across the oil and gas, maritime and construction sectors. The second article considers the rapidly evolving sanctions landscape, the interaction between sanctions clauses and force majeure provisions, and the particular challenges that sanctions compliance poses for international arbitration. The third article addresses the residual English law doctrines — frustration, illegality, change-in-law and material adverse change — that may provide relief where force majeure clauses are absent or inadequate. Together, the articles are intended to provide a practical framework for solicitors and in-house counsel advising clients with English law-governed contracts affected by the crisis.
Read the full article: The Iran War and English Law: Force Majeure, Sanctions, Frustration and Residual Considerations
The comments made in this article are wholly personal and do not reflect the views of any other members of Monckton Chambers, its tenants or clients.