Legal Definitions - public blockade

A public blockade is a term used in international law to describe a situation where a belligerent nation prevents access to or egress from an enemy's ports by stationing ships to intercept vessels trying to enter or leave those ports. In order for a blockade to be binding, it must be effective, meaning that it must be maintained by a force sufficient to prevent access to ports. This type of blockade is also known as a simple blockade or de facto blockade.

• During World War II, the Allied powers established a public blockade of Germany's ports in an effort to cut off their supply lines and weaken their military efforts.
• In 1962, the United States established a public blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis in order to prevent Soviet ships from delivering missiles to the island.

These examples illustrate how a public blockade can be used as a military strategy to limit an enemy's resources and capabilities. By preventing access to ports, a belligerent nation can weaken their opponent's ability to wage war and gain an advantage in the conflict.