Trump Threatens to Seize Strait of Hormuz and Demand Payment from Iran

In a surprise interview with Fox News on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the United States is preparing to take control of the Strait of Hormuz and charge fees for passage through the strategic waterway. Trump accused Iran of violating previous agreements and stated that Tehran must compensate for these breaches, asserting, "They will pay reparations for breaking the deal. All their resources now belong to the U.S."

Trump criticized Iran's leadership, acknowledging their negotiation skills but emphasizing that Iran has gained nothing from him. He further claimed that the U.S. is seizing Iranian assets including oil, gold, land, and food supplies. This statement came amid heightened tensions following the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' announcement to close the Strait of Hormuz.

However, the U.S. military rejected Iran's attempts to control the strait, affirming that the international waterway remains open to lawful maritime traffic. Official U.S. sources described Iran's actions as "unjustified aggression" and confirmed that American forces in the region are prepared to ensure freedom of navigation. President Trump also confirmed in an NBC interview that the strait remains open.

The situation underscores ongoing friction between the U.S. and Iran over control and access to this vital shipping route, which is crucial for global oil transport. The U.S. stance signals a readiness to enforce international maritime laws and counter Iranian threats to close the passage.