Trump declares himself 'guardian of Strait of Hormuz', demands 20% levy on cargo
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US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he is assuming the role of 'guardian of the Strait of Hormuz' and will impose a 20% levy on all cargo passing through the waterway. The move is intended to secure the strategic chokepoint for global oil shipments, with Trump citing the need to protect international shipping from Iranian threats.
The Announcement
In a statement released on July 19, Trump declared himself 'guardian of the Strait of Hormuz' and demanded a 20% levy on all cargo transiting the strait. The announcement came without prior consultation with key allies or international maritime bodies. Trump framed the move as a response to 'ongoing Iranian aggression' in the region.
Reactions and Implications
Iranian officials condemned the declaration, calling it a violation of international law. The Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil passes, is already a flashpoint. Analysts warn the levy could raise shipping costs and disrupt energy markets. No other nation has endorsed the US claim to unilateral guardianship.
Trump Threatens Iran
At a press conference, President Donald Trump set an 8pm ET Tuesday deadline for Tehran to reach a deal, adding that Iran "can be taken out in one night, and that night might be tomorrow night." The threat escalates tensions beyond the earlier Strait of Hormuz declaration.
US Withdrawal from WHO
Trump announced the US will terminate its relationship with the World Health Organization, redirecting funds to other bodies. He criticized the WHO as being 'controlled' by China and said the US would begin eliminating policy exemptions.
What's Next
The US administration is expected to outline enforcement mechanisms in the coming days. It remains unclear how the international community will respond, particularly given the lack of consensus on the legality of such a unilateral levy.
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Trump declares himself 'guardian of Strait of Hormuz', demands 20% levy on cargo
