Trump threatens US tolls on Strait of Hormuz if Iran deal collapses, after Iran claims renewed closure

Trump’s toll threat

President Trump posted on Truth Social on Saturday evening that no tolls would be charged on the Strait of Hormuz, unless they were imposed by and for the United States as compensation if an agreement with Iran is not finalised. He described the US as the “Guardian Angel” of Middle Eastern countries and said any fees would cover past, present and future security costs.

“THERE WILL BE NO TOLLS in the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days during the ceasefire period, and THERE WILL BE NO TOLLS after the 60-day period ends, unless imposed by and for the United States of America, should the agreement not be completed, as compensation for services provided as Guardian Angel to the countries of the Middle East, to cover past, present and future costs. Thank you for your attention to this matter!!! President Donald J. Trump”

Iran’s closure claim

Earlier on Saturday, Iran’s Joint Armed Forces Staff announced the re-closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing what it called clear violations of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding and Israeli breaches of the ceasefire in southern Lebanon. Tehran said oil would not flow unless the agreement was respected, accusing Washington of failing to enforce the terms.

US military denial

US Central Command rejected Iran’s assertion. Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a CENTCOM spokesperson, told Reuters that Iran does not control the strait, vessel traffic continued normally, and American forces were monitoring the situation.

“Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz. Traffic continues normally, and US forces are monitoring the situation to ensure it stays that way.”

Talks ahead in Switzerland

Negotiations between Washington and Tehran are set to resume at a technical level in Switzerland on Sunday. The talks follow a ceasefire that paused direct hostilities, but mutual distrust persists and the status of the Hormuz passage remains a flashpoint.