Trump Criticizes Iran's Handling of Strait of Hormuz Amid Ceasefire Tensions

US President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Iran for its management of the Strait of Hormuz, accusing it of violating ceasefire terms. He expressed concerns over limited vessel passage and potential fees on shipping traffic. As US-Iran talks loom in Islamabad, uncertainty remains regarding Iran's participation. Trump also defended his stance against claims of a premature victory in Iran, asserting that his actions would prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and ensure oil flow. This situation highlights the delicate balance of power in a critical global shipping route.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 10, 2026, 04:50 IST

Trump's Strong Words Against Iran

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump expressed his discontent with Iran's management of the Strait of Hormuz, accusing the nation of breaching the terms of a delicate ceasefire agreement. He voiced his concerns on Truth Social, stating that Iran was performing poorly in facilitating oil passage through the strait, which is vital for global energy, accounting for about 20% of the world's oil supply. Trump emphasized, "That is not the agreement we have!" Despite the ceasefire, only a few vessels have successfully navigated this crucial waterway. Iran's foreign minister indicated that safe passage would be allowed, but only if it aligns with military coordination and certain technical restrictions.

Concerns Over Potential Fees

Warning Over Potential Fees

Trump also cautioned Iran against the possibility of imposing fees on ships passing through the strait, responding to reports that Tehran might consider such actions. He remarked, "There are reports that Iran is charging fees to tankers going through the Hormuz Strait — They better not be and, if they are, they better stop now!" This warning came after discussions surfaced about Iran potentially charging vessels, possibly utilizing cryptocurrency, to monitor cargo and generate revenue. Hamid Hosseini, a representative from Iran's Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Products Exporters' Union, stated that the country aims to oversee what transits through the strait to prevent the ceasefire from being exploited for weapon transfers.

Uncertain Peace Talks Ahead

Uncertain Peace Talks

The ongoing dispute arises as US-Iran negotiations are set to take place in Islamabad, with a delegation led by JD Vance, alongside special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that the president is sending this team for discussions this weekend. However, Iran has expressed skepticism about participating unless Lebanon is included in the ceasefire framework. Despite the fragile ceasefire, Iran seems to be trying to gain leverage by regulating access to the strait, contemplating mechanisms such as fees and stricter cargo oversight. In another post, Trump criticized an editorial from a major newspaper that claimed he had declared a premature victory regarding Iran, asserting that his actions would ensure Iran would never acquire nuclear weapons and that oil would soon flow, regardless of Iran's involvement.