U.S. President Donald Trump issued new demands to Iran on Monday in response to Iran’s requirements for a peace agreement. Trump insisted that Iran should provide compensation for individuals who lost their lives in conflicts, attacks, and demonstrations. This move by Trump is expected to complicate efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
During a speech at the White House, Trump proposed that Iran should pay for damages caused over a 50-year period, including deaths of both civilian protesters and U.S. military personnel in the region. These demands led to a five percent increase in oil prices on Monday, signaling potential challenges in reaching an agreement to reopen the strait.
Referring to the violent suppression of protests in late 2025 and 2026, Trump claimed that Iran had killed approximately 52,000 protesters. However, reports from human rights organizations suggest a lower death toll. Trump also called for compensation to be paid to the families of 17 U.S. sailors killed in a 2000 attack on the USS Cole in Yemen, an incident attributed to al-Qaeda.
In a social media post, Trump further emphasized that Iran should be held accountable for damages and deaths in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza. Iran, on the other hand, stated that a final agreement with Oman regarding new shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz is close, but emphasized the need for the U.S. to meet specific conditions before the waterway can be reopened.
The conflict in the region has led to a blockage of the strait, impacting global oil and gas flows. Trump faces domestic pressure to end the unpopular war, especially as high fuel prices become a key concern for his supporters. Despite ongoing negotiations between Iran and Oman, unresolved issues remain, including discussions on safe navigation and environmental protection.
While U.S. officials have rejected the idea of allowing Iran to charge fees for strait access, Iran’s control over the region has not been fully disrupted by U.S. military actions. Despite claims by Trump that the strait is open, Iran continues to retaliate against U.S. allies and commercial ships passing through the strait without authorization.