U.S. Neglecting Iran Nuclear Issue to Focus on Hormuz, Israeli Officials Say

On 13 July 2026, President Trump said the US would 'take over' the Strait of Hormuz, act as its 'guardian' and be paid for it. He announced a 20% toll on cargo passing through the strait and said the blockade of Iran would be reinstated after a broken deal. Iran warned the US against trying to control the strait; Araghchi said Iran is the 'eternal guardian' of Hormuz, called the 20% toll too much and said 'we will be fair', while also mocking Trump over the tolls. Iran said 'flames will engulf the entire region' if nearby countries work with the US army, and the IRGC vowed 'greater humiliation' for the US.

The UN shipping agency opposed fees for any strait, and China reiterated its call for free, safe passage. Iran's spokesman Baghaei said the provisions of the Islamabad memorandum were no longer valid. Israeli officials said the US was neglecting the Iran nuclear issue to focus on Hormuz, and France said sanctions would remain until Iran abandons its nuclear program.