US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have issued strong warnings to Iran over its nuclear programme and its reported proposal to impose toll charges on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil trade routes.
According to reports, Trump ruled out any agreement that would allow Iran to retain highly enriched uranium under a future diplomatic settlement. He said the United States would ensure Iran does not obtain nuclear weapons capability and warned that Washington could take “very drastic” action if necessary.
Trump also rejected Iran’s reported plan to charge tolls for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, calling the route an “international waterway” that must remain open and free for global navigation.
Rubio echoed the warning, stating that any Iranian attempt to implement a Hormuz tolling system would make a diplomatic agreement with Tehran “unfeasible.” He described the proposal as “completely illegal” and a threat to global trade and energy security.
The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments and remains strategically vital for countries including India, China, Japan, and European economies. Global energy markets have remained volatile amid fears of disruptions in the region following the recent US-Iran conflict and naval tensions in Gulf waters.
Reports suggest Iran has been discussing mechanisms with Oman related to tighter control and possible fees for vessels passing through the strait. Tehran argues the route falls within Iranian and Omani territorial influence, while the US and Western nations insist the passage must remain open under international maritime law.
Despite ongoing diplomatic talks, major disagreements continue over Iran’s uranium stockpiles, sanctions relief, regional security arrangements, and maritime access in the Gulf. Rubio acknowledged that negotiations had shown some progress but warned that the Hormuz issue remains a major obstacle to any future deal.
The renewed tensions come months after the United States launched military operations linked to securing shipping lanes in the Gulf region following attacks and disruptions involving commercial vessels. Washington has maintained that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is non-negotiable because of its importance to global energy supplies and international trade.
Analysts say the escalating rhetoric highlights how the Strait of Hormuz has become both an economic and geopolitical flashpoint amid wider US-Iran tensions. Any prolonged disruption could sharply impact oil prices, shipping costs, inflation, and global supply chains.
