Trump Reverses on Strait of Hormuz Toll, Confirms US Naval Control Amid Iran Tensions

US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz shipping lanes remain open to all vessels except those from Iran, which will face a naval blockade starting at 23:00 Israel time. Trump retracted his earlier announcement about imposing a 20% transit fee on Gulf states, instead announcing new trade and investment agreements expected to bring American capital and manufacturing back to the US.

The US military completed a third round of strikes against Iran overnight, targeting military sites across the country including Bushehr, Chabahar, Abu Musa Island, and Bandar Abbas. These attacks, lasting about five hours, included missile strikes on two UAE oil tankers in Omani territorial waters, resulting in one Indian crew member killed and eight injured, four seriously. Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility, accusing the US of provoking illegal navigation and warning that cooperation with the "aggressive enemy" would cause delays in reopening the strait and trigger a global energy crisis.

In a White House statement, Trump asserted US dominance over the strait and vowed to maintain control, emphasizing that passage would be allowed for all except those trading with Iran. The US Central Command confirmed successful strikes on Iranian defense systems, missile sites, and drones, aiming to degrade Iran's maritime attack capabilities. Over 50,000 US troops remain deployed across the Middle East, prepared for further action.

Yesterday, Trump had announced the reinstatement of the naval blockade on Iran and the controversial transit fee, which he later withdrew. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghai rejected US commitments under a memorandum of understanding, citing US failure to uphold its obligations. He added that Iran seeks a joint mechanism with Oman for the strait's management, but US pressure on Oman has hindered progress. Baghai also stated Iran would not permit IAEA chief Rafael Grossi to visit its nuclear facilities.