What sea limits extended by claiming offshore islands?

Countries can extend their territorial sea limits by claiming offshore islands based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Under UNCLOS, nations can claim a 12 nautical mile territorial sea around their islands and potentially extend their exclusive economic zone (EEZ) up to 200 nautical miles if the islands meet specific criteria. This can lead to disputes over maritime boundaries, especially in resource-rich areas. Claims must be substantiated by geological and hydrographic evidence to be recognized internationally.