President Donald Trump declared on Monday, July 13th, 2026, that the United States will be "the guardian" of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage, and will reinstate a blockade on Iranian ports and vessels. Trump stated the blockade targets only Iran's ships or customers, ensuring "all other countries will have fair and open use of the Strait," which will remain open "with or without Iran."

Speaking on Truth Social, Trump said the U.S. will be reimbursed at a rate of 20% on all cargo shipped through the Strait to cover the costs of providing security to this volatile region. He emphasized that the U.S. has guarded the strait for over 50 years without compensation, while other nations profited.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump added that the U.S. plans to maintain control over the strait and expects reimbursement from wealthy allied nations, stating, "we can't be expected to do that for nothing."

This announcement comes amid ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran over control of the Strait of Hormuz, following a ceasefire agreement last month. Trump's call to charge a toll follows Tehran's recent suggestions to impose fees on commercial ships for passage, which Washington has condemned.

Tucker Reals, CBS News foreign editor based in London, reported on the development, noting the U.S.'s renewed assertiveness in the region.

Sources