Trump threatens tariffs in Strait of Hormuz over 'guardian angel' services
Donald Trump, President of the US (photo: Getty Images)
The US may impose its own tariffs and fees on ships passing through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz if the planned peace negotiations with Iran end in failure, according to US President Donald Trump on his Truth Social social media page.
Trump's ultimatum and the "guardian angel services"
The White House chief emphasized that the initial interim agreement aimed at ending the armed conflict with Iran clearly provides for the complete free passage of ships through the strait during the two-month ceasefire regime.
However, Trump warned of tough financial measures in the future if the parties fail to reach a final comprehensive agreement.
"There will be NO TOLLS in the Hormuz Strait for 60 days during the Cease Fire Period, and there will be NO TOLLS after the 60 day period has expired, unless they are imposed by and for the United States of America, should the deal not be completed, for services rendered as the Guardian Angel to the countries of the Middle East for purposes of both past, present, and future reimbursement of costs," the US president wrote.
On Saturday, June 20, the Iranian military command (the "Khatam al-Anbiya" Central Headquarters) once again announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to navigation.
Tehran justified its move by the US' clear violation of the first point of the memorandum and the ongoing Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon. In addition, the day before, Iran refused to participate in the negotiations planned for Friday in Switzerland regarding its nuclear program, and US Vice President J.D. Vance postponed his visit to Geneva.
Despite this, Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, are preparing for new negotiations on the American side. The US side currently denies that the strait is closed. On June 19, there were also reports of restrictions on the passage of ships by Iran, but the Iranian Foreign Ministry promptly denied them.
