United States President Donald Trump on Thursday issued a sharp warning to Iran over reports that it may impose shipping fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, saying such a move would violate existing understandings and must be stopped immediately. His remarks came amid rising tensions in the Middle East over maritime security and energy supply routes.

In a post on social media, Trump criticised Iran’s handling of oil shipments through the strategically vital waterway, stating that “Iran is doing a very poor job allowing oil to go through the Strait of Hormuz,” and insisting that any attempt to charge transit fees was not part of any agreement between the two sides. He further added, “That is not the agreement we have,” signalling strong opposition to any potential toll system in the region.

The comments followed earlier statements in which Trump warned that if reports of tanker fees were accurate, Iran should “stop now.” The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime passage connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, remains one of the world’s most important energy corridors, with a significant portion of global oil trade passing through it. Concerns over its security have repeatedly drawn international attention during periods of regional conflict.

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According to the White House, maintaining free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is considered essential to global energy stability. However, tensions have escalated amid allegations that Iran may seek to assert greater control over the waterway, including through regulatory or financial measures affecting commercial shipping.

In parallel diplomatic developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has authorised direct talks with Lebanon aimed at reducing hostilities involving Hezbollah. The move comes amid ongoing regional instability, although Israeli officials clarified that no formal ceasefire exists between the two countries.

The broader situation continues to reflect heightened volatility across the Middle East, with overlapping disputes involving Iran, Israel, and Lebanon contributing to uncertainty in maritime security and ceasefire negotiations. International observers warn that any disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could have significant implications for global energy markets.

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