WASHINGTON: The United States has intensified its stance in the Gulf after President Donald Trump announced that Washington would become the “guardian” of the Strait of Hormuz, while also declaring the reinstatement of an Iranian maritime blockade.
The move comes amid renewed military clashes between the US and Iran, raising fears over global energy supplies and regional stability.
Speaking during a televised interview, Trump said the US would protect the strategic waterway and expected financial compensation from nations benefiting from secure shipping. He argued that wealthy countries relying on the route should help cover the costs of maintaining security in one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.
Later, Trump reinforced his position through a social media statement, announcing that while the Strait of Hormuz would remain open for international trade, Iranian vessels and customers would face renewed restrictions. He also proposed a 20% fee on cargo transiting the waterway to finance US security operations.
The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making it one of the most important energy routes in the world. Any disruption has an immediate impact on global oil markets, with Brent crude and US West Texas Intermediate both rising more than 2% following reports of renewed military activity.
Meanwhile, Iran rejected Washington’s approach and confirmed it is continuing diplomatic efforts with mediators from Pakistan, Qatar, and Oman to prevent further escalation. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran remains committed to the principle of “commitment in exchange for commitment,” accusing the US of violating previous agreements and insisting Iran would not fulfill its obligations until Washington honored its own.
Military tensions continued to rise throughout Monday. Reports indicated fresh US strikes targeted multiple locations in southern and western Iran, while Tehran claimed it launched missile and drone attacks against US military facilities in Bahrain and radar installations in Oman. Iranian authorities also reported explosions near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island, areas close to the Strait of Hormuz.
China and the European Union urged restraint, emphasizing the need to restore free and safe navigation through the vital shipping lane. Beijing called for all parties to ensure uninterrupted international passage, while EU officials rejected the idea of imposing navigation fees and stressed that freedom of navigation must be preserved.
Shipping activity through the Strait has already slowed significantly as commercial operators reassess security risks. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could increase transportation costs, fuel inflation, and disrupt global energy markets.
With diplomatic negotiations continuing alongside escalating military operations, the situation in the Gulf remains highly volatile, leaving international markets closely watching developments in the Strait of Hormuz.
