US-Oman ties tested after Trump’s warning on Gulf waters

US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Oman on May 27, stating the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to all international shipping. "Oman will behave like everybody else, or we’ll have to blow them up. They understand that," Trump declared during a cabinet meeting.

The president's comments, which were officially posted by the US Department of State, caused surprise given Oman's long-standing relationship with the United States. Historically, Oman has served as a crucial mediator in regional diplomacy, including facilitating talks with Iran. However, Oman felt its mediation role was exploited in mid-2025 and early 2026, leading to mediation efforts shifting to Pakistan and Qatar.

Oman's strategic position on the Gulf of Oman, near the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, is vital for global trade. Despite not being an economic powerhouse like Saudi Arabia or the UAE, its geographic importance is undeniable. The US-Oman relationship dates back over two centuries, with formal ties established in the 1830s, highlighting a deep historical connection that now appears tested by Trump's recent pronouncements.

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The Strait is going to be open to everybody. It’s international waters. We’ll watch over it, but nobody’s going to control it. Oman will behave like everybody else, or we’ll have to blow them up. They understand that.