'Right to Charge Toll in Hormuz Is Ours' : US President Donald Trump Claims Victory Over Iran

New Delhi: Amidst the ongoing tension with Iran, US President Donald Trump has sparked a global debate by making a new claim. He has said that America should have the right to collect toll from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also said that America is in a “winner” position in this conflict, so it wants control over this strategic sea route.

Did Trump claim the toll by citing 'victory'?

Donald Trump clearly said in his statement that America has gained a military advantage, and on this basis, he is thinking of imposing duties on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He believes that America has played a major role in the security of this important waterway; hence, it should also benefit from it.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz vital?

The world counts this sea route among the most important oil routes. This route globally transports a significant amount of crude oil and gas. The current tension has affected ship movement here, causing changes in the international market.

Has Iran also prepared to collect a toll?

Interestingly, Iran had also put forward such a proposal earlier. Reports have revealed that Iran is working on a plan to collect heavy duty from ships. In such a situation, the dispute may deepen further if a similar claim comes from America's side.

Does international law allow such actions?

Experts say that under international maritime law, it is not easy to collect tolls directly from ships passing through such waterways. According to the United Nations Law of the Sea, such routes have the right to “free passage”.

Will this statement increase tension?

This statement of Trump has come at a time when the situation is already very tense between America and Iran. In recent times, military activities and rhetoric between the two countries have intensified. In such a situation, claims like toll recovery can further inflame it.

Will the global market be affected?

Any dispute in the Strait of Hormuz directly affects oil supplies. If conflict over control or tariffs increases here, it could also impact oil prices and the global economy. In the past too, sharp fluctuations have been seen in the market during such stress.