Trump touts US-Iran Hormuz toll plan as ‘beautiful thing’ in break from past policy

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump has floated a surprising new idea involving Iran, suggesting the two countries could work together on a toll system in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking on Wednesday, April 8, the commander-in-chief described the proposal as a potential "joint venture," indicating a major shift in tone following a tense standoff that only recently moved toward a ceasefire.

Trump proposes joint US-Iran toll system to 'secure' Strait of Hormuz

The proposal came during an exchange with ABC News journalist Jonathan Karl, who asked Trump whether he supported Iran charging tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

His response hinted at a collaborative approach rather than confrontation. “We’re thinking of doing it as a joint venture. It’s a way of securing it — also securing it from lots of other people,” he said.

He doubled down on the idea moments later, adding, “It’s a beautiful thing.”

The comments come just days after Washington and Tehran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, opening a narrow window for negotiations.

While details remain unclear, the idea of a shared economic arrangement between the US and Iran marks a dramatic departure from years of hostility.

Shift in policy raises questions over US control and maritime security

Trump’s suggestion that the US could impose tolls on ships moving through the Strait of Hormuz has sparked immediate questions about how such a plan would work in practice.

On Tuesday, the president had already indicated that the US was considering charging vessels for passage through the strategic waterway.

If implemented, such a move would likely require direct American military involvement in the region, given Hormuz’s location between Iranian and Omani territorial waters.

The strait remains one of the most critical global shipping routes, with around 120 vessels passing through it daily, according to shipping intelligence data.

Reports have also suggested that Iran may already be charging as much as $2 million per ship for safe passage.

If the US were to adopt a similar model, estimates suggest it could generate roughly $240 million per day.

At the same time, the idea signals a sharp break from traditional US policy, which has long focused on ensuring free and open navigation through the strait.

Iran's threats and Trump's tariff warning add pressure

Even as Trump spoke of cooperation, tensions in the region have remained far from resolved. Reports indicate that Iran has warned ships against crossing the strait without explicit approval.

“You must receive permission from Iranian Sepah Navy for passing through the strait. If any vessel tries to transit without permission, will be destroyed,” an Iranian official was heard saying in an audio clip shared with the media.

Meanwhile, Trump has taken a hard line against countries backing Iran militarily.

In a Truth Social post, he warned, “A Country supplying Military Weapons to Iran will be immediately tariffed, on any and all goods sold to the United States of America, 50%, effective immediately. There will be no exclusions or exemptions!”

The warning appeared aimed at global powers like China and Russia, both of which have previously supported Iran’s military capabilities.

Trump declares victory against Iran, calls ceasefire a ‘big day for world peace’

Despite ongoing tensions, Trump has framed recent developments as a success for his administration.

He reiterated claims that Iran has been militarily defeated, saying, "We’re the winners. We won, OK? They are militarily defeated." 

He downplayed Iran’s continued actions in the region, adding, “The only thing they have is the psychology of, ‘oh, we’re going to drop a couple of mines in the water.’”

At the same time, Trump expressed optimism about the ceasefire and the potential for economic growth. “A big day for World Peace!” he wrote, highlighting what he sees as a turning point.

“There will be lots of positive action! Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process,” he added. “Just like we are experiencing in the US, this could be the Golden Age of the Middle East!!!”