Trump reportedly threatened to 'blow up' Oman over Iran stance

U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly issued a stark warning to the U.S. ally Oman, threatening to "blow them up" if the sultanate sides with Iran concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump made these remarks during a cabinet meeting at the White House, emphasizing that the strategically vital waterway must remain open for all international traffic.

When asked about the possibility of a short-term agreement allowing Iran and Oman to jointly control the strait, Trump responded negatively. "No, the strait will be open for everyone," he stated. "These are international waters, and Oman will behave like everyone else, or we will have to blow them up. They understand that, they will be fine."

The White House initially offered no correction or clarification regarding Trump's comments, specifically whether he intended to name Iran instead of Oman. However, the U.S. State Department later released an excerpt and transcript of Trump's statements concerning Oman, without offering any further explanation or correction.

Oman, a key U.S. ally, has historically played a mediating role in regional conflicts, including attempts to broker peace between Iran and the United States. The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply is transported, has been a central point of contention since the U.S. and Israel initiated attacks on Iran in late February. During the same cabinet meeting, Trump also appeared to confuse Iran with Venezuela, using similar phrasing about military capabilities for both nations.

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No, the strait will be open for everyone. These are international waters, and Oman will behave like everyone else, or we will have to blow them up. They understand that, they will be fine.