A growing standoff is taking shape in the Strait of Hormuz, as President Donald Trump declared that the United States will take action to restore free passage through the critical global shipping route, launching what he described as a coordinated military effort.

Trump made it clear that Iran will no longer be permitted to dictate access to the waterway or collect fees from passing vessels, signaling a sharp escalation in the dispute.

He further warned that any country or ship that agrees to pay Iran for transit would not be guaranteed safe passage through the Strait.

Trump also indicated that several allied nations are expected to join the initiative, which he characterized as a blockade aimed at reestablishing open navigation and putting an end to what he called “world extortion” by Iran.

In a detailed and forceful statement, Trump said the move comes in response to Iranian claims that naval mines may have been deployed in the area, creating widespread concern among commercial shipping operators.

The resulting uncertainty has effectively brought maritime traffic to a halt. Addressing the situation, Trump said, “So, there you have it, the meeting went well, most points were agreed to, but the only point that really mattered, NUCLEAR, was not,” before announcing that “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz.”

The plan is expected to focus heavily on clearing potential mines and enforcing maritime security, with Trump arguing that the lack of clarity over mine locations has crippled shipping activity and necessitates immediate intervention.

He expressed confidence that normal operations would soon resume, stating that a system would be restored in which “all being allowed to go in, all being allowed to go out,” removing Iran’s influence over one of the world’s most important trade corridors.

Trump also warned that any military response from Iran would be met decisively, saying that U.S. forces are “locked and loaded.”

He concluded with a direct message to Tehran: “As they promised, they better begin the process of getting this INTERNATIONAL WATERWAY OPEN AND FAST.”