President Donald Trump warned Saturday, June 20, that the United States could start charging tolls in the Strait of Hormuz if Iran fails to reach a full agreement within 60 days.
The president said that the current ceasefire deal is supposed to keep the vital waterway open without charges during that period.
He then noted that after 60 days, tolls would only be imposed if the U.S. decides to do so.
President Warns U.S. Could Impose Hormuz Tolls
“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,” Trump posted on social media.
He added that any money collected would go toward “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 comments come days after the U.S. and Iran reached a memorandum of understanding to pause their conflict.
Why the Strait of Hormuz Remains Critical to Global Trade
The deal includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman that handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments.
Iran had disrupted shipping there with mines and missiles during the fighting. Under the interim pact, Tehran agreed to clear those threats and allow free passage for 60 days while broader talks continue.
Trump has pushed back against reports that Iran might try to charge fees after the initial period. He described the U.S. position as one of strength, saying America has borne the cost of keeping the region stable and now expects reimbursement if a final deal falls through.
The 60-day clock gives negotiators time to tackle tougher issues, including Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and regional security.
JD Vance Heads to Switzerland as Technical Talks Begin
Vice President JD Vance, who is set to lead early technical talks in Switzerland, left the country this Saturday.
The VP was supposed to depart for Switzerland on Thursday, but the White House cited logistical issues, and the trip was pushed to the weekend amid fresh tensions, including renewed fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.
Speaking to reporters before his departure, Vance said he believes the situation surrounding the ceasefire in Lebanon is “getting better” and that the escalation is being contained. He said the U.S. objective is to stabilize the situation in Lebanon.
The Hormuz provision has drawn criticism at home, with some lawmakers saying the short-term free passage hands Iran leverage without enough guarantees for the long term. Shipping companies have also expressed worry about future instability.
Also Read: Obama Says Trump’s Iran War Left US ‘Worse Off’ Despite Ceasefire
Trump and his team argue the deal stops the immediate bloodshed and reopens a vital economic artery. Oil prices eased after the initial announcement as tanker traffic picked up again.
The Strait of Hormuz has long been a flashpoint since the U.S. and Israel started striking Iran.
U.S. forces patrolled the area to keep shipping lanes secure, a role Trump now wants other nations to help pay for if the ceasefire leads to a lasting arrangement.
Iran’s side has also been pushing the question of the toll. Officials in Tehran have talked about “service fees” for safe passage, though details remain fuzzy.
Also Read: Trump Settles for Reopening Hormuz After Failed Regime Change Push
Before this current ceasefire, Iran was charging a service fee for passage, a move which triggered Trump to impose a naval blockade.
The blockade stopped all ships from accessing or leaving Iranian ports.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued operations against Iranian-backed groups in Lebanon, creating headaches for the major truce effort.
President Trump recently urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to act with moderation when responding to Hezbollah attacks and provocations.
