Donald Trump has announced the immediate imposition of a 20% security fee on all goods transiting the Strait of Hormuz and the reinstatement of a naval blockade against Iranian ports. According to statements posted on Truth Social and a subsequent announcement from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the blockade is scheduled to take effect at 9:00 PM on Tuesday.
CENTCOM to Enforce Blockade on Iranian Coastal Areas
U.S. Central Command confirmed it will enforce a blockade against all vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports and coastal areas. This operational move mirrors a previous blockade implemented between April and June. According to the CENTCOM communiqué, the military objective is to restrict maritime traffic linked to Iranian territory.
This specific strategy was previously utilized in April as a direct response to Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz. At that time, the U.S. aimed to stop Tehran from profiting from petroleum exports. Iranian officials characterized those previous actions as “piracy.”
Did you know? The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical chokepoints. At the start of the year, approximately 20% of the world’s total petroleum shipments passed through this narrow corridor.
The 20% ‘Guardian’ Fee and Legal Disputes
Donald Trump stated that the United States will now be known as the “Guardians of the Strait of Hormuz.” To fund the security of this “instable region,” the U.S. will charge a 20% reimbursement fee on all merchandise passing through the strait. Trump framed this charge as a matter of “justice” to cover the costs of ensuring safe passage.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has already pushed back against this financial mandate. An IMO spokesperson stated the organization “firmly opposes the charging of fees for passage through straits used for international navigation,” asserting there is no legal basis for mandatory transit fees. The IMO indicated it is awaiting further details from the Trump administration.
European Union Condemns Transit Tolls
The European Union has expressed opposition to the imposition of these fees. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s chief diplomat, stated following a meeting of foreign ministers that the strait should remain open to navigation without tolls, as it was before the war. Kallas emphasized that “freedom of navigation cannot be obstructed.”
Despite this opposition to the fees, the EU simultaneously criticized Iran. The Union noted that Iranian attacks “violate international law” and breach a previous memorandum of understanding signed with the United States on June 17.
Timeline of Conflict in the Strait
The current escalation follows a period of intense volatility that began on February 28, when U.S. and Israeli forces launched attacks on Iranian soil. Since then, the Strait of Hormuz has become the primary flashpoint between Washington and Tehran.
| Event/Period | Action Taken | Outcome/Status |
|---|---|---|
| February 28 | U.S./Israeli attacks on Iran | Start of active war phase |
| April – June | First U.S. Blockade | Suspended via June 17 memo |
| Current Order | Blockade + 20% Fee | Effective Tuesday 21:00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 20% fee?
According to Donald Trump, the fee is a reimbursement to the U.S. for the costs associated with guaranteeing security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Who is opposing the new maritime fees?
Both the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Union have opposed the fees, citing a lack of legal basis and the principle of freedom of navigation.
When does the new blockade begin?
CENTCOM announced the blockade against vessels traveling to or from Iranian ports will be enforced starting Tuesday at 21:00.
How do you think these maritime fees will impact global oil prices? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for real-time geopolitical updates.