Decree 256/10

Decree 256/10 is a regulation issued by the Argentine government on February 16, 2010, which establishes the requirement for all vessels sailing through Argentine jurisdictional waters to or from the Falkland Islands to request prior authorization from Argentine authorities.

Historical context

In the Boundary Treaty of 1881 between Argentina and Chile the Strait of Magellan was recognized as Chilean exclusively, with an obligation of free passing for all nations and no militarization of its shores.
The Falkland Islands sovereignty dispute reached its military peak during the Falklands War in 1982. After the war, Argentina broke off diplomatic relations with the United Kingdom, included the recovery of the islands in the Constitution of Argentina, continued the Cóndor II missile program through the Argentine Air Force, and adopted various other diplomatic and economic measures.

Article 1 of the decree

The first article of the decree states:
This decree contradicts Article 10 of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship between Argentina and Chile of 1984:

Consequences of the decree

The decree has triggered various international controversies, such as the fine imposed on the Panamanian transport vessel Frío Marathon or the pursuit of the research vessel mentioned above.
However, Argentine scientists argue that the decree constitutes a requirement, not a prohibition.