Trump Swaps Strait of Hormuz Transit Fees for Gulf Capital

The strategy emerged following intense bilateral talks, notably with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi at the Oval Office. Trump acknowledged that regional leaders pushed back against the proposed transit fee, favoring an investment-based model that promises greater stability for global oil flow and maritime traffic. By integrating these financial inflows into the broader security architecture of the Gulf, the administration seeks to leverage military assets for tangible domestic economic returns.

Despite the shift in tactics, the administration maintains a hardline stance against Tehran. Trump accused Iranian leadership of persistent destructive policies, confirming that existing restrictive measures remain in effect. Military commanders continue to oversee operations in the Strait, with the White House framing the new deal as a superior alternative to previous diplomatic efforts, which Trump claimed had reached a point of exhaustion.