United States President Donald Trump has announced that frozen Iranian assets under Washington’s control will be used to compensate for damage to ships, cargo and other maritime losses resulting from attacks in and around the Gulf.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Trump said the policy would remain in effect until further notice, warning that “any and all damages” to vessels, cargo or related property would be paid for using Iranian funds held by the United States.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran following a series of attacks on commercial shipping and growing instability in the Gulf region. The strategic waterway remains one of the world’s busiest maritime routes, with a significant proportion of global oil and gas exports passing through it.

The latest declaration marks another escalation in Washington’s pressure campaign against Tehran. While the United States argues that Iran should bear financial responsibility for attacks linked to maritime insecurity, the proposal is expected to generate legal and diplomatic debate over the use of frozen sovereign assets under international law.

Analysts warn that continued tensions in the Gulf could disrupt global trade, increase shipping insurance costs and place additional pressure on international energy markets. The situation also raises concerns about the risk of further military confrontation in an already volatile region.