Trump demands Iran pay compensation for 50 years of conflict, complicating Strait of Hormuz reopening

President Donald Trump has escalated rhetoric with Iran by demanding compensation for individuals killed in wars, attacks, and protests over the past 50 years. This demand, presented as a response to Iran's conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, complicates ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions and potentially reopen the vital shipping lane.

Trump's proposal, which has not been previously raised, directly addresses Tehran's demands for compensation and an end to sanctions. These Iranian conditions were largely aligned with a preliminary peace deal that has since collapsed. The President stated at the White House that Iran should pay for damages covering deaths among both civilian demonstrators and U.S. forces in the region. Oil prices reacted to the news, settling 5% higher on Monday due to dimmed prospects for a deal to reopen the strait.

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We're going to ask for money for the damage they've done over a 50-year period.

While referencing Iran's crackdown on domestic protests in late 2025 and 2026, Trump cited figures of around 52,000 protesters killed as of six weeks prior. However, reports from organizations like the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) in February indicated around 7,000 deaths, including 6,500 protesters. Trump had previously encouraged protesters to overthrow the Iranian government.

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So if there's damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages.

Furthermore, Trump suggested Iran should compensate families of the 17 U.S. sailors killed in the October 2000 attack on the naval vessel USS Cole in Yemen. Although that attack has been blamed on al Qaeda, Trump wrote on Truth Social that Iran should be responsible for damages and deaths caused in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza.

Iran had previously announced it was nearing a pact with Oman to define new shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz. However, Tehran reiterated that the U.S. must meet its conditions, including compensation, an end to sanctions, and cessation of military threats, before the waterway can be reopened. The strait, crucial for global oil and LNG transport, has been effectively blocked since the conflict began, contributing to rising oil prices and inflation.

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Also, with respect to the Iran negotiations, Iran should be responsible for the damages and death caused to the people of Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza!