US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to Iran in the week hours of Friday, accusing Tehran of interfering with global oil movement through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
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Posting on Truth Social, Trump directly addressed reports that Iran may be charging fees to oil tankers passing through the narrow shipping lane. "There are reports that Iran is charging fees to tankers going through the Hormuz Strait — They better not be and, if they are, they better stop now!" he wrote.
The warning comes at a sensitive time, with energy markets closely watching developments in the region.
Escalation in tone
Minutes after his initial post, Trump followed up with a sharper criticism of Tehran's role in maintaining free passage through the Strait. "Iran is doing a very poor job, dishonorable some would say, of allowing Oil to go through the Strait of Hormuz. That is not the agreement we have!" he added, indicating frustration over what he sees as a breach of understanding.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical oil transit routes, handling a significant share of global energy supplies. Any disruption in this corridor can have immediate ripple effects on international markets.
Pushback against media coverage
Trump also used the moment to respond to coverage by The Wall Street Journal, disputing its assessment of his Iran policy. In a strongly worded post, he said, "The Wall Street Journal, one of the worst and most inaccurate "Editorial Boards" in the World, stated that I "declared premature victory in Iran." Actually, it is a Victory, and there's nothing "premature" about it! Because of me, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON and, very quickly, you'll see Oil start flowing, with or without the help of Iran and, to me, it makes no difference, either way.
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The Wall Street Journal will, as usual, live to eat their words. They are always quick to criticize, but never to admit when they're wrong, which is most of the time!"
The remarks come just days after Washington and Tehran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, temporarily halting hostilities. The move, also welcomed by Israel, followed Trump's indication that he was open to Iran's 10-point proposal on a "workable" basis. While the pause has raised cautious hopes of de-escalation, the latest exchange highlights that tensions could resurface quickly.
