President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to impose a US-controlled transit fee in the Strait of Hormuz as fresh tensions erupted with Iran over the strategic waterway.
If the parties fail to reach a final peace settlement, the United States could seek compensation for acting as the region's "guardian angel," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
The United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran in late February, triggering the conflict. Under the framework agreement negotiated between Washington and Tehran, Iran was to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and is barred from charging transit fees in the waterway during the 60-day negotiation period.
The agreement stipulates that arrangements beyond that period are to be negotiated between Iran and Oman, in accordance with international law and in consultation with countries bordering the strategically important waterway.
The issue has been widely viewed as a potential source of friction. International law experts have raised concerns about the legality of transit fees in the strait.
Trump said on Saturday that, from the US perspective, Iran would not be permitted to levy charges on vessels passing through the strait, either during the 60-day talks or after their conclusion.
“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," Trump wrote.
Iran announced earlier in the day it was once again closing the Strait of Hormuz after Israel's latest attacks in Lebanon, casting further doubt on the durability of the framework agreement.
