**Title: Trump Declares Only the US Can Impose Tolls in the Strait of Hormuz**
In a significant statement regarding maritime operations in the Strait of Hormuz, US President Donald Trump declared that no tolls would be charged for transit through the strategic waterway during or after the 60-day ceasefire period agreed upon by the United States and Iran. The president emphasized that any future tolls would only be imposed by the United States itself, should the negotiations fail to yield a comprehensive agreement.
Trump's remarks were made via his social media platform, Truth Social, on Saturday, just ahead of crucial negotiations set to take place in Switzerland. The talks, involving both US and Iranian delegations, are aimed at transforming the interim ceasefire agreement into a more extensive settlement addressing regional security concerns and Iran's nuclear ambitions.
“There will be NO TOLLS in the Hormuz Strait for 60 days during the Cease Fire Period, and 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 stated. He further justified the potential for future tolls as a means of compensating the United States for its role in ensuring the safety of maritime traffic in the region.
This declaration appears to counter a reported proposal from Tehran, which suggested the imposition of charges on ships for transit, insurance, navigation, or other maritime services after the ceasefire period concludes. Prior reports indicated that some vessels had already been subjected to payments under wartime traffic-control measures, highlighting the complexities of maritime operations in the area.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with approximately 20% of the world's petroleum consumption passing through it, according to the US Energy Information Administration. The waterway's significance has made it a focal point in the ongoing negotiations, as the interim agreement has temporarily reopened the route for the duration of the talks.
A memorandum of understanding, which was reported by Fars news agency, suggests that Iran will have a formal role in determining the post-ceasefire management of the Strait. The document indicates that Tehran will consult with Oman regarding the “future administration and maritime services” in the waterway and will engage with other Gulf littoral states on these matters.
As the negotiations commenced in Switzerland, US Vice President JD Vance arrived to participate in discussions with Iranian officials. The US delegation also includes special envoy Steve Witkoff and former senior adviser Jared Kushner, while Iran is represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
The outcome of these talks could have significant implications for regional stability and the global oil market, as any changes in toll structures or maritime regulations in the Strait of Hormuz would directly affect international shipping routes and economic interests. The negotiations are being closely monitored by various stakeholders, given the strategic importance of the waterway and the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.
As the ceasefire period unfolds, the international community will be watching to see if a lasting agreement can be reached that addresses both the security concerns of the United States and the economic interests of Iran, particularly in relation to its maritime operations in the Strait of Hormuz.