Trump Declares U.S. the “Guardian of the Hormuz Strait,” Vows 20% Cargo Fee

Trump Declares U.S. the “Guardian of the Hormuz Strait,” Vows 20% Cargo Fee

Trump reinstates an “Iranian Blockade” and demands reimbursement on all cargo shipped through the vital waterway to fund U.S. security operations.

Richard Miniter
First Published: July 13, 2026, 6:28 AM ET

Donald Trump declared that the United States will police the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most critical oil chokepoint, and charge a 20% fee on all cargo shipped through it to cover the cost.