On July 13 local time, U.S. President Trump announced that a 20% fee would be imposed on all goods transported through the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif sarcastically said, "20% is certainly too much; we will be fair."
On July 14, Alaghazi posted on the social media platform X, stating, "The President of the United States is completely correct. Any party that provides safe and reliable navigation for commercial ships through the Hormuz Strait should receive corresponding compensation for this service. Iran has always been a guardian of the Hormuz Strait, and will always play this role. Of course, a rate of 20% is too high. Our prices will be fair."
Previously, Trump posted on the social media platform “RealSocial”, stating that “The Strait of Hormuz is open and will remain open, regardless of whether Iran agrees or not.”
Trump stated that the United States will reinstate the “blockade against Iran.” This term is chosen because the measure specifically targets Iranian ships or customers, restricting their access to the Strait. All other nations can use this Strait in a fair and free manner.
Trump said that starting today, the United States will become the "guardian of the Hormuz Strait," and stated that countries using this route should bear the costs associated with its protection. However, in the interest of fairness, the United States will charge a 20% fee on all goods transported through this route, "to compensate for the necessary costs incurred in maintaining the security and stability of this region, which is a source of global instability." Relevant procedures and arrangements will be initiated immediately.
