WASHINGTON — Tensions between the United States and Iran have flared again following reports of a potential breach in their recent ceasefire agreement. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning, asserting that Iran is prohibited from imposing any customs or tolls on vessels passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Saturday afternoon, Trump hinted that the United States might instead exercise the right to collect tolls in the waterway. This development is being viewed by analysts as a significant indicator that the fragile ceasefire agreement could be on the verge of collapse.
Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding established after hostilities began on February 28, the Strait of Hormuz was to remain open during a 60-day interim ceasefire, with Iran barred from levying any fees. However, Trump clarified his position: “There will be no tolls in the Strait of Hormuz during or after the 60-day ceasefire, unless they are imposed by or in the interest of the United States.”
Trump justified this potential policy by citing the “historical and future costs” of the U.S. role as a “guardian angel” ensuring security for Middle Eastern nations.
Escalating Tensions
The diplomatic stability is already fraying. On Saturday, Iran’s Joint Military Command claimed to have closed the strait, citing alleged Israeli attacks in Southern Lebanon as a violation of the ceasefire agreement. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has flatly denied this claim, stating that shipping through the strait remains normal.
The Strait of Hormuz is critical to global energy security, facilitating the transit of approximately 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas, as well as 30% of global fertilizer trade. Previous closures led to a naval blockade by the U.S., which was only lifted following the agreement reached on Wednesday, June 17.
Diplomatic Efforts
High-level talks are scheduled in Switzerland to address the crisis, with mediation by Pakistan and Switzerland. An Iranian delegation led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has already arrived. The U.S. side is expected to be represented by Jared Kushner, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Vice President J.D. Vance. Experts warn that Trump’s remarks regarding toll collection and the ongoing conflict in Lebanon pose a significant threat to the success of these negotiations.
