Argentina Requests ITLOS Halt

Argentina’s government asked the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea to temporarily stop British oil activities off the disputed Malvinas Islands.

“seeks to preserve Argentina’s sovereign rights over its continental shelf and prevent activities authorised unilaterally and illegally by the United Kingdom from exacerbating the dispute recognised by the United Nations”

Temporary Halt Request

The request aims to prevent UK exploitation of hydrocarbon resources in the North Falkland Basin while preserving Argentina’s sovereign rights.

Provisional Measures Under UNCLOS

Argentina seeks provisional measures to protect its rights or prevent environmental damage if the situation is urgent under Article 290(5) of UNCLOS.

Sovereignty Dispute Context

Argentina claims sovereignty over the Malvinas Islands, South Georgia, and surrounding waters, while the UK has controlled them since 1833.

Sea Lion Oilfield Details

The Sea Lion oilfield, 220km north of the islands, is 65% owned by Israeli company Navitas Petroleum and 35% by British firm Rockhopper Exploration.

Project Timeline

Drilling begins in early 2027 with production starting in 2028, targeting up to 55,000 barrels per day initially.

Milei’s Deadline

President Milei gave the UK a two-week deadline to halt the Sea Lion project before Argentina pursued international legal action.