US Renews Iran Port Blockade, Imposes Hormuz Fee
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US Renews Iran Port Blockade, Imposes Hormuz Fee
- On Monday, July 13, 2026, the United States announced it would reinstate a naval blockade on Iranian ports and levy a 20% fee on all cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
- This decision by President Donald Trump follows a breakdown in ceasefire talks and comes amidst renewed military exchanges between the US and Iran.
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The United States announced on Monday, July 13, 2026, the renewal of a naval blockade on Iranian ports and the implementation of a 20% fee on all cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This move, declared by President Donald Trump, signifies a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Iran, particularly after recent ceasefire negotiations failed to yield an agreement.
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global chokepoint, normally sees approximately 20% of the world’s liquefied natural gas and 25% of seaborne oil trade pass through it annually. The US-Israel initiated attacks on Iran began on February 28, 2026, leading to Iran’s retaliatory blocking of the Strait, which subsequently prompted a US military campaign to reopen it. A prior US naval blockade of Iranian ports was in effect from April 13 to June 18, 2026.
President Trump stated on Truth Social that “THE IRANIAN BLOCKADE” is being reinstated to prevent Iranian ships or their customers from entering or leaving Iranian ports, while ensuring “fair and open use of the Strait” for all other countries. The 20% fee, he added, is “for any and all costs necessary to do the job of providing safety and security to this very volatile section of the World.” This decision rolls back concessions made under a June 2026 memorandum of understanding, which aimed to end the conflict and reopen the Strait. Iran has consistently maintained its right to control traffic and collect fees in the Strait, a stance disputed by the US, which cites international law on freedom of navigation.
The announcement