US President Donald Trump has announced a new proposal involving the Strait of Hormuz, saying the United States will reinstate a blockade targeting Iranian shipping while seeking reimbursement for securing one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.
The announcement came after Tehran claimed it had closed the strategically important waterway, escalating tensions across the Gulf. Trump’s proposal also includes a 20% charge on cargo transported through the strait to cover what he described as the cost of providing security.
Trump Announces New Hormuz Policy
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump declared that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open regardless of Iran’s actions.
He said the United States would reinstate what he called the Iranian blockade, explaining that the measure would target only Iranian ships and customers connected to Iran.
According to Trump, commercial shipping from other countries would continue to move freely through the waterway.
20% Cargo Fee Proposed
Trump also announced a proposal to recover the costs of securing the waterway through a cargo charge.
He wrote:
“We are reinstating the THE IRANIAN BLOCKADE, so named because it is only stopping Iran’s ships or customers from entering or leaving.”
He further stated:
“All other countries will have fair and open use of the Strait. The U.S.A. will be, from this point forward, known as “THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT,” but as such, and as a matter of FAIRNESS, will be reimbursed, at the rate of 20% on all cargo shipped, for any and all costs necessary to do the job of providing safety and security to this very volatile section of the World. The process and formation will begin immediately.”
Strait of Hormuz Remains a Critical Global Route
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime trade corridors. A significant share of global oil and energy shipments passes through the narrow waterway every day.
Because of its strategic importance, any disruption to shipping in the area can quickly affect global energy markets and international trade. Recent tensions have already contributed to higher oil prices and renewed concerns about supply disruptions.
Regional Tensions Continue
Trump’s latest announcement follows heightened military tensions between the United States and Iran after Tehran claimed it had closed the Strait of Hormuz.
The proposed blockade and cargo fee mark another escalation in the ongoing dispute. However, details regarding how the proposed 20% reimbursement system would be implemented have not yet been announced.
For now, Trump’s proposal signals a tougher US approach toward maritime security in the Gulf while placing renewed focus on one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes.
