Trump: 'We will bomb Oman if it impedes U.S. moves in the Strait of Hormuz'

President Donald Trump issued a stark warning, declaring that the United States would "bombard Oman relentlessly" should the Middle Eastern nation attempt to obstruct American operations in the Strait of Hormuz.

The declaration came during an interview with Trey Yingst of Fox News on Monday, August 17. This statement arrives at a critical juncture, as a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is reportedly nearing its expiration. Trump's forceful language underscores the strategic importance of the Hormuz Strait, a vital waterway for global oil and natural gas trade.

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If Oman impedes us, we will bombard it relentlessly.

Trump's remarks followed Iran's announcement the previous week regarding ongoing negotiations with Oman concerning the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. president also dismissed concerns about the American military's weapons reserves, asserting, "We have large stockpiles of weapons. What we have used are crumbs. We have many medium-range weapons."

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We have large stockpiles of weapons. What we have used are crumbs. We have many medium-range weapons.

Despite Trump's assurances, some analyses suggest that by early August, the U.S. had depleted more than half of its stockpiles for certain weapon systems during the conflict with Iran. A report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) indicated that while the U.S. possesses sufficient missiles for current scenarios, the depletion of reserves poses a challenge for future conflicts.

Furthermore, Trump confirmed that his administration has established a direct, behind-the-scenes communication channel with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He expressed no urgency to resolve the ongoing conflict, stating, "They are good poker players, but they are dying. I have not set any timeline. I am not in a hurry."

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They are good poker players, but they are dying. I have not set any timeline. I am not in a hurry.