Intense Lobbying of Trump: U.S. Oil Giants Fear a 'Hormuz Strait Toll Precedent'

U.S. oil industry executives have recently intensified pressure on the Trump administration, demanding an explicit rejection of any strait toll arrangements during negotiations with Iran.

Recently, multiple industry executives stated directly to the media that the only way to resolve the current global energy crisis is to reopen the Hormuz Strait—a channel through which approximately one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas is transported.

Oil executives are scheduled to meet with Trump on Thursday afternoon. The agenda is expected to cover issues such as freedom of passage through the strait and boosting oil production.

Industry Warning: Tolls Would Set Dangerous Precedent

The American Petroleum Institute (API), the largest industry lobbying group in the United States, has taken a clear stance: "Imposing tolls on this globally critical chokepoint would set a worrying precedent for international waterways, causing damage to global energy markets."

The core logic behind industry concerns is that if Iran successfully levies tolls on the Hormuz Strait, other countries may follow suit, imposing similar fees on strategic waterways under their control, thereby undermining the fundamental principles of global shipping freedom.

Daniel Yergin, Vice Chairman of S&P Global and author of "The Prize," stated: "Turning the Hormuz Strait into an Iranian canal is extremely dangerous in itself and could also set a precedent for subverting the principle of freedom of the seas."

Trump's Position Wavers, White House Ultimately Takes Hard Line

Last week, Trump publicly hinted that the U.S. could jointly charge tolls on transiting vessels with Iran, claiming there was "a lot of money" to be made. This remark shocked many oil executives.

Subsequently, Trump reversed his position on social media, stating that Iran should "best not" charge tolls on transiting tankers. A White House spokesperson then clarified: "As the President said, the Hormuz Strait is international waters, and we will not allow Iran to levy fees on the strait."

Industry Veteran: Military Force May Be Used if Necessary

Scott Sheffield, a senior leader in the U.S. oil industry, took a firm tone. He stated that Trump must address the strait issue to protect the world economy from the shock of sharply rising oil prices, "even if it means deploying U.S. military forces locally."

Sheffield added, "It must be opened. Ultimately, it may require forming a joint force with Europe, Asia, and other Gulf states to achieve this goal."

Sultan al-Jaber, President of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in the Gulf oil-producing nation, also posted on social media on Sunday: "The Hormuz Strait has never been something Iran can close or restrict. Setting such a precedent is illegal, dangerous, and unacceptable."

Currently, the U.S. and Iran held talks in Islamabad over the weekend, but signs of progress were scarce. Trump subsequently ordered the U.S. Navy to blockade the strait, preventing ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports. New rounds of negotiations are expected to begin soon, with the issue of strait tolls likely to be one of the core points of contention.