US President Donald Trump on Wednesday appeared to threaten Oman over reports suggesting the Gulf nation could jointly manage the Strait of Hormuz with Iran, escalating tensions around one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.
Speaking during a televised White House Cabinet meeting, Trump warned that Oman “will behave just like everybody else or we’ll have to blow them up,” while insisting the strategic waterway must remain open to all. “The strait’s gotta be open to everybody. It’s international waters. Nobody’s going to control it,” Trump said.
The remarks followed reports that Iranian and Omani officials were discussing a possible framework to jointly oversee maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage through which nearly 20 per cent of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass.
However, the White House strongly denied those reports, calling them false. Trump also made clear that sanctions relief for Iran was not under discussion and reiterated Washington’s position that Tehran would not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
Trump’s comments also drew attention because Oman has historically maintained diplomatic ties with both the United States and Iran, often acting as a mediator between rival powers in West Asia. Unlike several Gulf nations more closely aligned with Washington, Oman has largely followed a balanced foreign policy.
Oman’s role is also strategically important because, alongside Iran, it shares territorial waters along the Strait of Hormuz, placing it at the centre of any discussion involving maritime access through the region.
The issue comes amid a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran following months of conflict that began earlier this year. Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz remain high because of its importance to global energy markets and regional security.
Countries Trump Has Threatened So Far
Trump’s remarks on Oman have once again drawn attention to his wider foreign policy approach. Reports suggest Oman is among at least 15 countries that Trump has either directly threatened, hinted at taking action against, or targeted militarily during his time in office.
During his current term, US forces have launched operations in countries including Iran, Iraq, Syria, Somalia, Yemen and Venezuela. Trump has also publicly warned or declined to rule out military action involving Canada, Mexico, Panama, Cuba and Greenland.
Analysts say the pattern reflects Trump’s unpredictable approach to foreign policy, while critics argue such statements have heightened tensions in regions already dealing with conflict.
