'20% is too much, we will be fair': Iran mocks Trump's Hormuz transit fees

Iranian foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Monday mocked US President Donald Trump over his proposal to charge a 20% fee on cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Iran, not the US, is the true "guardian" of the strategic waterway.In a post on X, Araghchi took a swipe at Trump's remarks, saying Iran has always ensured security in the Strait of Hormuz and would continue to do so."POTUS is absolutely right. Whoever provides secure and safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz should be compensated for this service. Iran has always been the GUARDIAN of the Strait and will remain so FOREVER. 20% is of course too much. We will be fair," Araghchi wrote.His comments come amid renewed tensions between Washington and Tehran in recent weeks.Trump announces 'Guardian of the Hormuz Strait' planEarlier on Monday, Trump declared that the United States was "reinstating" the Iranian blockade and announced that Washington would impose a 20% charge on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz to cover the costs of providing maritime security.In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the strategic shipping lane would remain open despite regional tensions."The Hormuz Strait is OPEN, and will remain OPEN, with or without Iran," Trump wrote.He added that the US would ensure free passage for all countries except Iran and its customers."The U.S.A. will be, from this point forward, known as 'THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT,' but as such, and as a matter of FAIRNESS, will be reimbursed, at the rate of 20% on all cargo shipped, for any and all costs necessary to do the job of providing safety and security to this very volatile section of the World," Trump said.The US President also said the process to implement the security and reimbursement model would begin immediately.However, Iran swiftly rejected Trump's proposal, reiterating that it alone has authority over the Strait of Hormuz and warning against any US intervention.Catch the latest world news and top headlines. Download the TOI App.