Trump Rejects 'Toll' on the Strait of Hormuz and Threatens to Seize Iran's Enriched Uranium

WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump said on Thursday (21 May 2026) that the United States opposes all forms of toll charges on shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He also asserted that Iran will not be allowed to retain enriched uranium.

“We do not want tolls. This is an international waterway. They are not charging tolls at the moment,” Trump told reporters at the White House, cited by Anadolu Agency.

Trump claimed Iran suffers major financial losses due to restrictions on shipping activity. When asked whether Iran could maintain its stockpile of enriched uranium under any future arrangement, Trump replied firmly.

“No, we will obtain the enriched uranium; we will get it. We do not need it. We do not want it. We may destroy it after obtaining it, but we will not let them possess it,” Trump said.

Trump again stressed that the US will not allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon. “Right now, we are negotiating, and we will see what happens, but we will obtain it by any means. They will not have a nuclear weapon,” he said.

Trump said the US is monitoring negotiations reportedly taking place between Iran and Oman regarding the possibility of tolls on the Strait of Hormuz. He also emphasised that US forces maintain full control over maritime traffic in that strategic waterway.

When asked whether it would be acceptable if Iran were to negotiate with Oman to formalise tolls for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “Well, we are considering it; we are listening.”

Trump then claimed the US has imposed an effective blockade in the region. “We have full control over the Strait of Hormuz, as you know, with our blockade. The blockade is 100 per cent effective. No one can pass it. It is like a steel wall,” he said.