Former U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned Oman that the U.S. would consider military action if Muscat obstructed ongoing talks between Washington and Tehran regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump stated that Oman’s potential interference could jeopardize the negotiations aimed at securing safe passage for oil shipments through the strategically vital waterway. The Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for roughly one-fifth of global oil supply, has been a persistent flashpoint in U.S.-Iran relations.
‘If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb them,’ Trump said in remarks aired on his social media platform. The warning underscores heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf amid efforts to revive diplomatic channels between the two adversaries.
Oman has historically acted as a mediator in regional disputes, including indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran. Analysts noted that Trump’s statement could complicate Oman’s role in facilitating dialogue, particularly if perceived as a direct threat.
The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Pentagon declined to address the remarks, referring inquiries to the White House, which has not commented on the statement.
The warning comes as global oil markets remain sensitive to geopolitical developments in the Middle East, where disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger supply shocks.
