According to a report by Al Jazeera on May 22, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump has firmly rejected any move by Iran to introduce toll charges in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such an action would be unacceptable and could further increase tensions in the Middle East.…....
Speaking during a press briefing at the White House on Thursday, Trump stressed that the important waterway must remain open and accessible for global shipping. “We want it free. We don’t want tolls,” he said, emphasizing the strait’s importance to international trade.
His comments came after reports that Iran is holding discussions with Oman about creating a permanent toll system to strengthen its control over traffic passing through the strategic route, which is essential for transporting large volumes of global oil, natural gas, and fertilizer supplies.
Trump also claimed that the United States currently has complete control over the Strait of Hormuz through its military blockade on Iranian ports and vessels.
“We have total control of the Strait of Hormuz, as you know, with our blockade. The blockade has been 100 percent effective. Nobody has been able to get through it, it’s like a steel wall,” Trump said.
The U.S. president also renewed pressure on Tehran over its nuclear program, warning that Washington could take “something very drastic” if Iran refuses to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
He further repeated that the United States plans to seize Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, a statement likely to deepen existing diplomatic tensions.
