Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has mocked US President Donald Trump’s proposal to impose a 20% charge on all cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to him, the rate is too high and Iran can offer a lower charge.
Araghchi said Iran has long been responsible for securing the Strait of Hormuz and will continue to do so.
The statement was made as a satire on Trump’s proposal to impose a fee to pay for the security of the world’s most important trade route.
Previously, Trump insisted that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open “with or without Iran”. He also announced plans to reimpose sanctions on Iranian ships and impose a 20% charge on all cargo passing through the route to cover security costs.
In the same development, Trump announced that he would deliver a State of the Union Address to explain the United States’ stance following the escalating tensions with Iran.
Meanwhile, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) stressed that the Strait of Hormuz should remain free of any tolls or charges, in accordance with international law.
The IMO also reminded that international navigation rights should not be obstructed or interfered with by any party.
The IMO also condemned the attacks on commercial ships around the Strait of Hormuz and called on all parties to reduce tensions to ensure the safety of navigation and the smooth flow of global trade.
