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President Donald Trump has threatened military action against Oman if it interferes with a potential US agreement with Iran over control of the Strait of Hormuz, while calling on Tehran to surrender.
Speaking to Fox News journalist Trey Yingst, Trump said, “If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the shit out of them,” referring to discussions between Oman and Iran on future arrangements for maritime movement through the key shipping route.
Iranian and Omani officials have held talks for weeks on navigation through the strait, with Iran’s foreign ministry saying on Monday that both sides were working on a joint declaration.
The comments come as Washington and Tehran have continued separate diplomatic efforts over the strategic waterway, which has remained at the centre of tensions since Iran moved to restrict shipping activity after the start of the Middle East conflict on 28 February.
Trump has repeatedly claimed that the Strait of Hormuz is under US control, despite continued restrictions on vessel movement. On Friday, he said he could declare the waterway part of US territory, a move rejected by Tehran, which said the strait “will remain Iranian.”
Before the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, the Strait of Hormuz was recognised as an international waterway. The passage is one of the world’s most important energy routes, carrying large volumes of oil and other commodities between the Gulf and global markets.
Iran has used its control over the route as leverage against US efforts targeting its military capabilities and nuclear programme.
Trump also told Yingst that Iran should “put up the white flag of surrender,” while saying he was not rushing to reach an agreement despite political pressure at home. He added that his administration maintained a direct back-channel with officials of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, describing them as “good poker players” but saying they were under pressure.
The dispute comes as tensions remain high over the future of regional security, maritime access and diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.
