Washington DC— Donald Trump has firmly rejected any attempt by Iran to impose transit fees on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, calling it an international route that cannot be controlled by a single nation.
Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews, Trump said the United States would not permit such a move. “No, we’re not going to allow that, it’s international water. If they’re doing that, we’re not going to let that happen,” he asserted.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, following reports that Iran is considering levying tolls on vessels using the strategically critical maritime corridor, a key artery for global oil shipments.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticised Iran’s proposal, accusing it of attempting to use international waterways as leverage. He suggested that the US had exercised restraint only to allow room for diplomatic negotiations, adding that Tehran was relying on “short-term extortion” through control of crucial shipping routes.
The proposal was earlier referenced by Ibrahim Azizi, head of Iran’s Parliament National Security Commission. He indicated that under a parliamentary plan, transit fees through the Strait of Hormuz could be charged in Iran’s national currency, the rial, as part of a broader strategic framework for the region.
Azizi also noted that Iran may consider agreements with Oman under the proposed plan, though he clarified that such provisions are secondary.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most vital chokepoints for energy supplies, and any move to regulate or impose charges on transit traffic is likely to have far-reaching implications for global trade and oil markets.
The development comes ahead of anticipated talks involving the US and Iran aimed at easing tensions after weeks of conflict in West Asia, with a temporary ceasefire currently in place.
