In the immediate aftermath of the US-Iran ceasefire, former US President Donald Trump introduced a controversial proposal suggesting a joint venture with Iran to manage the Strait of Hormuz and collect tolls from ships passing through the critical maritime corridor. His remarks came within hours of the truce announcement, signalling a shift from purely military considerations to economic possibilities tied to the strategic waterway.
Speaking in an interview, Trump indicated that the United States might collaborate with Iran to “secure” the Strait while also monetizing its use. He described the idea of charging tolls as a “beautiful thing” and suggested that significant financial gains could be made simply by maintaining a presence in the region. The proposal builds on his earlier comments that controlling or influencing traffic through Hormuz could generate “big money.”
The timing of the suggestion is notable, as it coincides with continued uncertainty around the operational status of the Strait. Despite the ceasefire, multiple reports indicate that maritime movement remains restricted, with vessels being warned to seek prior approval from Iranian authorities before attempting transit. This has created a complex environment where security, diplomacy, and economic interests are deeply intertwined.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most strategically important shipping routes in the world, carrying a substantial portion of global oil and gas supplies. Traditionally considered an international waterway with free navigation, its status has been increasingly contested amid the ongoing conflict. Iran has, at times, allowed passage selectively, reportedly charging significant fees to certain vessels, particularly those from countries it considers friendly.
Trump’s proposal appears to align with this evolving dynamic but also raises serious legal and geopolitical questions. Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had criticized the idea of toll collection in the Strait as “illegal” and potentially destabilizing for global trade. The concept of monetizing transit through such a critical international passage challenges long-standing norms governing maritime navigation.
Meanwhile, the broader regional conflict remains unresolved. Israel has continued military operations in Lebanon, and Gulf countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait have reported ongoing missile and drone threats even after the ceasefire. This ongoing instability further complicates any attempt to implement a structured system like toll collection or joint management.
Trump also framed the proposal in economic terms, suggesting that revenue generated from such tolls could contribute to reconstruction efforts in Iran. Iranian officials have similarly hinted at using funds collected from shipping to support rebuilding, and there have been suggestions that some revenue could be shared with regional partners like Oman.
Overall, the idea of a US-Iran joint venture to collect tolls at the Strait of Hormuz reflects a broader shift in how strategic chokepoints are being viewed—not just as military assets, but also as potential economic instruments. However, given the ongoing conflict, legal complexities, and competing interests of multiple global stakeholders, the feasibility of such a proposal remains highly uncertain.
