Iranian Foreign Minister Mocks Trump's Proposed 20% Tariff on Hormuz Shipping

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has mocked US President Donald Trump’s plan to impose a 20% tariff on all cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz. In a social media post on Monday, Araghchi stated that while the US President was correct that whoever provides safe passage deserves compensation, the proposed tariff was excessive. “Iran has always been the guardian of the Strait of Hormuz and will remain so forever. A 20% tariff is certainly too high. We will set a fairer rate,” Araghchi said. The remarks were a direct response to Trump’s announcement that the US would reimpose a blockade on Iranian ports and charge a 20% fee on shipments through the strait to cover security costs. Trump declared on Truth Social that the United States would be known as the “Guardian of the Strait of Hormuz” and was entitled to reimbursement for securing one of the world’s most vital and volatile shipping lanes. He added that Iranian ports would be blockaded again, while other nations would retain open and fair access to the strait. The plan comes amid escalating tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supply flows, meaning any disruption could significantly impact global trade and energy prices.