Tehran: Irans Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran will continue to be the "guardian" of the Strait of Hormuz following US President Donald Trump's threat to impose fees on shipping in this strategic waterway.

According to Nam News Network, Araghchi addressed the situation on the US social media platform X, acknowledging Trump's assertion that those ensuring the secure passage of commercial vessels through the Strait should be compensated. "POTUS (president of the US) is absolutely right. Whoever provides secure and safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz should be compensated for this service," Araghchi stated. He emphasized that Iran has historically been the guardian of the Strait and will continue to hold this position indefinitely.

President Trump earlier announced that the US would blockade Iran in the Strait of Hormuz and charge ships a 20 percent toll for safe passage. In response, Araghchi remarked, "20 per cent is of course too much. We will be fair," indicating a willingness to negotiate terms.

Tensions have increased between the US and Iran concerning the Strait of Hormuz, with both countries engaging in exchanges despite a Pakistani-mediated memorandum of understanding. This agreement was intended to resolve their conflict and establish a lasting peace.