Trump says US will become ‘guardian’ of Strait of Hormuz and collect tolls
President Trump has announced that the US will act as the 'guardian' of the Strait of Hormuz, reinstating a naval blockade against Iran and imposing a 20% toll on cargo ships. The UN's shipping agency has formally opposed the move, stating there is no legal basis for such fees.
Why it matters
This policy shift significantly escalates geopolitical tensions in a critical global shipping lane and challenges international maritime law.
Iran rejects any US control over strait as both sides trade attacks in major threat to negotiations to end their war.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Ships navigate waters near the Strait of Hormuz off the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates [File: AFP] Published On 13 Jul 2026 13 Jul 2026 United States President Donald Trump has said the US will restart its naval blockade of Iran and “become the guardian” of the Strait of Hormuz, amid the ongoing escalation with Iran that threatens to derail efforts towards a more lasting peace.
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