Trump wants to impose fees for Strait of Hormuz transit just like Iran: Is that legal? – explainer

Following a breakdown in the ceasefire with Iran, US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States would impose a 20% fee on all cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated, "The USA will be, from this point forward, known as 'THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT', but as such, and as a matter of FAIRNESS, will be reimbursed, at the rate of 20% on all cargo shipped." This move comes after Iran had previously shut down the strait and sought to maintain control, with a member of Iran's National Security Commission vowing, “We will not lose the Strait of Hormuz under any circumstances.” The legality of such fees is questionable under international maritime law, as neither Iran nor the US are signatories to UNCLOS, though it is widely recognized. Other countries and shipping officials have expressed concern, noting that no such unilateral fee has been imposed in modern history.