Trump rejects Hormuz transit fees as Iran control over waterway

In a statement released through Iran’s state media, the IRGC said safe passage through the strategic waterway can only be guaranteed when vessels use routes approved by Iranian authorities

WASHINGTON: Fresh tensions have emerged over maritime access through the Strait of Hormuz after Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that all vessels must comply with Iranian-designated navigation routes, while US President Donald Trump firmly rejected any future agreement that would allow Tehran to impose shipping or transit fees.

In a statement released through Iran’s state media, the IRGC said safe passage through the strategic waterway can only be guaranteed when vessels use routes approved by Iranian authorities. The force warned that any navigation plan introduced without Tehran’s coordination poses security risks and would not be recognized.

The IRGC further stated that ships crossing the strait must maintain communication with its naval units through the internationally recognized maritime Channel 16. According to the statement, vessels that fail to follow these requirements could face enforcement measures.

The remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran following a memorandum of understanding signed electronically by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on June 17. The agreement seeks to formally end hostilities and establish a framework for lasting peace after months of conflict.

Regional tensions had escalated after US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets earlier this year prompted retaliatory attacks by Tehran against American assets across the Middle East. A ceasefire later took effect on April 8, easing fears of a broader regional confrontation.

Speaking at the White House during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump made it clear that Washington would oppose any final agreement allowing Iran to collect fees from commercial vessels using the Strait of Hormuz.

The US president argued that permitting such charges would establish a precedent that could encourage similar demands elsewhere around the world. He described the idea as unacceptable and warned that it could fundamentally alter international maritime practices.

Separately, Trump stirred political debate in Washington after unexpectedly cancelling a planned signing ceremony for a bipartisan housing affordability bill. The president said he would withhold his signature until Congress approved the SAVE America Act, a voting-related package he has strongly advocated.

The move sparked fresh disagreement within Republican ranks and overshadowed what had been expected to be a major legislative event focused on housing and economic concerns ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.