Trump wants allies to pay US for guarding Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump has said the United States should assume responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz and be financially compensated by allied nations for protecting one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News on Monday, Trump said the US would probably take over operations in the narrow waterway and serve as its “guardian”. He argued that countries benefiting from the route should contribute towards the cost of maintaining its security.

“We’re going to keep the strait, and we’ll probably run it,” Trump said, adding that the United States should receive substantial reimbursement because many of the countries relying on the passage were wealthy and could afford to share the burden.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime corridor linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. A significant share of the world’s seaborne crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the narrow channel, making any disruption there a major concern for global energy markets.

Trump’s remarks came as tensions between Washington and Tehran remained high following renewed military exchanges and disputes over navigation through the waterway. Iran has insisted that an end to US military operations in the area is necessary before normal shipping can fully resume, while warning that continued confrontation could further destabilise global oil and gas supplies.

But accused Iran of failing to honour previous agreements, saying Washington could no longer rely on commitments made by Tehran. His comments underscored the growing strain in efforts to restore stability in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.