Trump Says Future Shipping Damages Will Be Paid Using Iranian Funds Under U.S. Control

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that any future damage to ships, cargo, or related maritime assets will be compensated using Iranian funds currently under the control of the United States.

In a statement, Trump said, "From this point forth, any and all damages done to Ships, Cargo, or anything related thereto, will be paid for by Iranian Money that the United States has in its possession, and controls." He added that he believes the decision is "the fair and equitable thing to do."

Please let this statement serve to represent, until further notice, that from this point forth, any and all damages done to Ships, Cargo, or anything related thereto, will be paid for by Iranian Money that the United States has in its possession, and controls. These damages may… pic.twitter.com/IJqo4kkZHD

— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) July 23, 2026

The remarks come amid ongoing concerns over maritime security and tensions affecting international shipping routes in the Middle East. While Trump did not specify the legal mechanism or circumstances under which such funds would be used, his statement signals a tougher stance on holding Iran financially accountable for any future maritime-related losses.

The announcement is likely to draw international attention, as the use of frozen or controlled foreign assets has long been a subject of legal and diplomatic debate. Any move to redirect Iranian funds toward compensating shipping losses could face scrutiny under U.S. and international law.

The statement adds another dimension to the already strained relationship between Washington and Tehran, with global shipping companies and regional stakeholders expected to closely monitor any policy developments stemming from Trump's remarks.