Trump Warns Iran: No Tolls in Strait of Hormuz During Ceasefire

President Donald Trump has clarified the U.S. position on the Strait of Hormuz, stating in his 'own special way' that the waterway must remain free of Iranian-imposed fees. According to the President, there will be no tolls for the duration of the 60-day ceasefire, nor afterward, unless such fees are specifically imposed by and for the United States as reimbursement for its role as a 'Guardian Angel' to Middle Eastern nations. This stance directly challenges recent Iranian claims of sovereignty over the passage.

Conflicting Claims of a Blockade

The warning follows a formal declaration by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its Central Headquarters of Hazrat Khatam al-Anbiya, which claimed the strait was closed to all vessel traffic. Tehran cited alleged U.S. and Israeli violations of the Lebanon ceasefire as justification for the move. However, U.S. defense officials speaking to Axios and Vice President J.D. Vance have disputed these claims, stating there is no evidence of an operational blockade. Reports indicate that approximately 16 million barrels of oil transited the strait yesterday, suggesting that maritime traffic continues despite the IRGC's rhetoric.

Strategic Context and Outlook

The dispute over tolls and transit rights is a recurring friction point in the emerging U.S.-Iran diplomatic framework. While Iran has previously attempted to rebrand passage fees as 'insurance fees,' the Trump administration has maintained that the strait must remain open. The current standoff highlights the fragility of the regional situation, as the CIA reportedly warns that continued operations in Lebanon could impact the broader Washington-Tehran understanding. For now, the U.S. maintains that the 'Straits really are open,' while keeping a close watch on Iranian military activity in the corridor.