President Donald Trump has stated that the United States could take over and run the Strait of Hormuz, escalating his hard-line rhetoric regarding the conflict with Iran. In an interview with Fox News on Monday, Trump declared, "We'll become the guardian of the strait." He added, "We are taking over the strait. They have nothing. They've got nothing."
Trump Demands 20% Reimbursement on Cargo
Trump said he expects the US to be reimbursed for controlling the vital waterway, proposing a 20% levy on all cargo shipped through the Strait. "The U.S.A… will be reimbursed, at the rate of 20 per cent 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," he stated. The demand comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and Iran over control of the strategic waterway.
Strategic Waterway at the Heart of US-Iran Tensions
The Strait of Hormuz has been a major point of contention during talks between the two parties in Islamabad from May to June, according to Premium Times. The recent exchange of strikes was triggered by an attack on a vessel passing through the strait. Iran's effective blockade of the strait has pushed up energy prices and increased concerns about inflation globally.
Trump Claims US Hit Iran 'Very Hard'
Trump referenced the CENTCOM attacks on Saturday and Sunday night, saying, "We hit them very hard last night." He boasted, "We have them in the run. Most of their equipment is gone. Their anti-aircraft stuff is gone." The comments underscore the US military's recent actions against Iranian forces.
Iran Doubles Down on Control
Meanwhile, Iran has doubled down on its stance over the Strait of Hormuz, insisting that the waterway should be controlled by Iran and Oman. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps previously stated that it would not allow any country to "continue its illegal interference in it." Iran announced the waterway's closure on Saturday morning over what it described as unauthorised transit. The day after, it declared that passage of ships remained suspended and that permits would be issued once "stability and calm" were restored.
Trump Vows Strait Will Remain Open
However, Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said the "Hormuz Strait is open, and will remain open, with or without Iran." The conflicting claims highlight the ongoing standoff over one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints.
