Trump Dismisses Iranian Proposals for Maritime Tolls During Transit of Strait of Hormuz

President Trump flatly denies that Iran will be allowed to charge tolls in the Strait of Hormuz, maintaining a hard line on maritime freedom.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 3:36 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Times of Israel

Rejection of Sovereign Maritime Taxation

The prospect of a new economic framework for Persian Gulf transit has met with immediate resistance from the White House. According to President Donald Trump, the United States will not accept any arrangement where Iran charges tolls for passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This firm stance addresses recent diplomatic floating of the idea that Tehran might seek to monetize the waterway in exchange for security guarantees or the easing of current maritime tensions.

Contradiction of Simultaneous Restrictions and Fees

A primary factor in the American refusal is the perceived incompatibility of Iranian control and open commerce. According to President Trump, there cannot be a system that utilizes tolls alongside the existing operational restrictions. By flatly stating "No way" to the proposal, the President signaled that the United States views the freedom of navigation as a right that cannot be conditioned upon payments to the Islamic Republic, particularly during an active blockade.

Diplomatic Communication Aboard Air Force One

The President clarified his position during a brief interaction with reporters while traveling to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. According to President Trump, there are not going to be tolls, regardless of the status of the ongoing negotiations to end the regional conflict. This direct communication serves to set the American boundary for the "no sticking points" deal the administration claims is currently being finalized with Iranian representatives.