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President Donald Trump escalated pressure on Iran Saturday by warning that the United States could impose tolls on ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz if Tehran fails to finalize a broader peace agreement within the next 60 days.
In a post on Truth Social, the president said commercial vessels would continue to enjoy toll-free passage through the strategically vital waterway during the current ceasefire period, but suggested that could change if negotiations collapse.
“There will be NO TOLLS in the Hormuz Strait for 60 days during the Cease Fire Period,” he wrote. “There will be NO TOLLS after the 60-day period has expired, unless they are imposed by and for the United States of America.”
President Trump argued that any future American tolls would compensate the United States for protecting shipping lanes and maintaining regional security.
The comments come as Vice President JD Vance traveled to Switzerland for direct negotiations with Iranian officials aimed at transforming a temporary ceasefire into a more comprehensive agreement.
The talks follow the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran that established a 60-day pause in hostilities while negotiators work toward a permanent settlement.
At the center of the discussions is the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints. About one-fifth of globally traded oil and natural gas passes through the narrow waterway, making its security critical to international markets.
President Trump’s remarks appeared designed to reinforce U.S. leverage in the negotiations while signaling that Washington intends to maintain a significant role in safeguarding maritime traffic through the Gulf.
The administration has argued that restoring stability to the Strait of Hormuz is essential for keeping energy supplies flowing and preventing further disruptions to global markets. Oil prices have remained sensitive to developments in the region throughout the conflict.
Negotiators now face a 60-day window to resolve key disputes involving Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, regional security arrangements, and long-term access to the Strait of Hormuz.