US President Trump Critiques Allies Amid Ongoing Iran-Israel-US Tensions

As the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the US enters its 36th day, President Trump has mocked allied nations facing fuel shortages, urging them to 'keep the oil.' This comes amid Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which is disrupting global oil supply chains. Iran is also working on a new maritime protocol with Oman to enhance navigation security in the strait. Reports suggest that Iran has implemented a 'toll booth' system for vessels passing through, raising concerns about the implications for global energy supplies. Read on to learn more about the evolving situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 4, 2026, 07:34 IST

Fuel Shortages and Global Energy Concerns

In a recent statement, US President Donald Trump ridiculed allied nations facing fuel shortages as the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the US stretches into its 36th day. He advised these countries to “keep the oil” amidst growing worries about global energy supplies. This commentary coincides with Iran's ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has significantly impacted global oil supply chains, leaving the UK and other nations, which have distanced themselves from the Middle Eastern tensions, grappling with fuel shortages.

Iran is actively working to alter navigation protocols in the Strait of Hormuz. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi revealed that Tehran is close to finalizing a draft protocol aimed at establishing a new maritime regime in this crucial waterway. This proposal seeks to enhance collaboration with Oman, creating a joint framework that mandates vessels to secure agreements with both coastal nations while ensuring safe and uninterrupted passage.

Potential Joint Control with Oman: Major Changes Ahead for the Strait of Hormuz

The forthcoming protocol will necessitate that all vessels obtain the required agreements from both Iran and Oman. This initiative aims to bolster the security of the strait, placing greater responsibility on both nations. Rather than imposing restrictions, the requirements are designed to facilitate maritime traffic and guarantee the safe passage of ships, along with providing necessary services for vessels navigating through the Strait of Hormuz.

Recent reports indicate that Iran has initiated a “de facto toll booth” system in the Strait of Hormuz, regulating which ships can pass and charging fees for safe transit. According to the Shipping News website Llyodslist, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has established this regime, requiring vessels to submit comprehensive documentation, acquire clearance codes, and accept IRGC-escorted passage through a single controlled corridor. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint, with approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply traversing this route. As tensions escalate in the Middle East, Iran has begun to limit the passage of specific tankers through this vital waterway.

(With agency inputs)