United States President Donald Trump has reacted sharply to Iran through a post on the Truth Social platform, accusing it of acting "weakly and dishonestly" regarding oil traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
"Iran is doing a very poor job, some would say dishonest, allowing oil to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. There are reports that Iran is charging tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz. They better not do this and, if they do, they better stop it now," Trump wrote, adding at the end: "This is not the deal we have."
His statement comes at a time of ongoing tensions in the region, where this waterway constitutes one of the most important arteries for global oil transportation. Any interference with freedom of navigation in this area has the potential to directly affect international energy markets.
According to reports verified by BBC Verify, at least nine ships have passed through the strategic channel today. Meanwhile, Trump's spokeswoman had previously stated that the president had also raised the possibility of increasing revenue from ships passing through the strait.
The situation remains evolving, while recent statements are expected to further increase international attention on security and stability in the Persian Gulf.