Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Ph.D. Student in International Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran.
2
Associate Professor, Department of Private and Islamic Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran.
10.22084/qjpla.2025.30640.1028
Abstract
In today's interconnected and complex world, maritime transportation plays a fundamental role in supporting global supply chains. In this regard, advancements in digitalization, increased automation, and interconnected technologies have brought significant benefits to the shipping industry and contributed to decarbonization efforts. However, as these technologies rapidly advance, so do technologies that may harm them. For instance, modern technologies can be utilized to increase the complexity of cyberattacks. Currently, the maritime industry faces an extensive list of regulations, with various jurisdictions enforcing specific requirements. Among these regulations are the Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Risk Management and the Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Risk Management in Safety Management Systems. On the other hand, there is a noticeable gap in treaty documents and customary international law regarding cyberspace. The absence of specific rules does not imply that states can conduct cyber operations without restrictions. Although existing customary and treaty law does not explicitly regulate cyber operations, interpretative tools can be used to extend existing rules to include cyber operations. In this context, the Tallinn Manual 2.0 is recognized as a significant effort to regulate cyberspace. In its eighth chapter, the manual provides considerations regarding the commission of cyber operations under the Law of the Sea. Therefore, this article employs a descriptive-analytical method and a library-based approach to examine cyberattacks on the shipping industry and their threats to global trade, with an emphasis on these guidelines.
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