President Donald Trump has placed the blame for the renewed military conflict between the U.S. and Iran squarely on Iran. He also withdrew a plan to impose a toll on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz just one day after announcing it. Instead, he stated that costs would be shared through increased investments from Middle Eastern countries.
According to Reuters, Trump made these remarks on July 14 during a meeting at the White House with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Alzaidi, stating, "Iran's first attack was a major mistake."
When asked if he regretted easing sanctions on Iran and lifting maritime blockades following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU), Trump denied it, saying, "I wanted to give them a chance to reach an agreement."
He added, "Just two days ago, we were in a position to reach an agreement, but Iran suddenly said they could not comply. They attacked first, and we are responding strongly." However, he did not specify what agreement he was referring to.
The U.S. resumed airstrikes against Iran after a civilian vessel was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on July 7. At that time, Trump declared that the MOU signed the previous month was over.
Trump also retracted his plan to impose a toll on cargo ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which he initially proposed to be set at 20%. He explained that after discussions with Middle Eastern leaders, he decided to share costs in a different manner.
He stated, "Middle Eastern countries preferred to resolve the issue in other ways rather than through tolls, and they will make significant investments in the U.S., which I prefer." Specific countries and investment amounts were not disclosed.
However, he maintained the blockade on vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports or carrying Iranian cargo. This indicates that while he is not imposing a toll on the entire Strait of Hormuz, military and economic pressure targeting Iran will continue.
Trump hinted at the possibility of additional sanctions, stating, "The sanctions bill being pushed by Congress will include Iran, and the pro-Iran militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon may also be added."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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