Trump Withdraws Threat of 20% Tariff on Strait of Hormuz Cargo Ships, Maritime Blockade Remains in Place

US President Donald Trump has withdrawn his threat to impose a 20% tariff on cargo ships operating in the Strait of Hormuz. The United States continues its aggressive posture against Iran for control over this vital waterway. Ongoing attacks and counterattacks from both sides have caused a rise in global oil prices, and tanker traffic through the strait has largely come to a halt.

On Tuesday night, the US Central Command reported that its forces had carried out a new phase of strikes aimed at “destroying Iranian capabilities that could attack commercial vessels.” This marked the third consecutive night of such assaults. Iranian state media have confirmed that the strikes targeted multiple cities, including Bushehr, which houses Iran’s nuclear power facility.

On Monday, Trump had announced that the US would maintain security over the Strait of Hormuz and impose a 20% tariff on all cargo vessels passing through it. He also warned of a maritime blockade against Iran. However, he later revised his statement, saying, “I have decided to replace the 20% tariff with trade and investment agreements the US will make with various countries in the Gulf region.” Iran reiterated that it maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz.