President Donald Trump has publicly stated that the United States would bomb Oman if the country "gets in the way," directing threats at the small Gulf nation amid escalating tensions with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. The remarks came as Oman is engaged in discussions with Tehran concerning the management of the vital shipping lane.
Two regional officials indicated that Trump's frustration stems from Oman's proximity to a potential deal with Iran regarding the strait. Trump had vowed a swift resolution to tensions with Iran and a renegotiation of its nuclear program, but instead, Iran has utilized its control over the Strait of Hormuz as leverage in ongoing talks.
These discussions between the U.S. and Iran, launched under an interim agreement 60 days prior, have stalled with no indication of an extension. The only confirmed ongoing discussions involve Iran and Oman, focusing on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. These talks have been underway for weeks, with Tehran stating that a joint statement is being finalized. Iran does not appear to be in a hurry to conclude these negotiations.
Oman, a nation of just over 5 million people, has traditionally maintained a less prominent role in Gulf affairs compared to its neighbors. While it has permitted U.S. military access to its facilities, the scale of this defense relationship is described as smaller than those with countries like the United Arab Emirates. Oman's leadership has historically favored engagement with Iran and has participated in mediation efforts, though such roles are now primarily handled by Qatar and Pakistan.
Shifting Dynamics and Omani Mediation Efforts
Global attention on Oman has intensified since the signing of the interim agreement. Shortly after, Iran began targeting ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz near Oman's coast, a route supported by the U.S. The current discussions between Iran and Oman are reportedly aimed at establishing "mechanisms to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz while respecting the sovereign rights and sovereignty of both coastal states, as well as Iran’s security and national interests." These mechanisms could potentially involve the implementation of fees.
Regional officials have suggested that the emerging agreement might involve ships using an Iranian-controlled route to enter the Persian Gulf and an Omani-controlled route for exiting. However, the finalization of any such deal appears contingent on the U.S. lifting its blockade of Iranian ports. Oman had previously described the talks as progressing in a "positive and constructive atmosphere" while also condemning attacks on ships traversing the strait.
Following a meeting between Oman's foreign minister and his Egyptian counterpart, Egypt stated that the Iranian-Omani deal could potentially facilitate the return of the U.S. and Iran to negotiations for a "comprehensive and permanent deal that addresses all concerns and enhances regional security and stability."
Oman finds itself situated between two powerful and resolute nations. Meanwhile, the flow of global oil, natural gas, and related goods through the Strait of Hormuz remains constrained, with vessels continuing to face the risk of attack. Since Trump's recent threat, Oman's state-run Oman News Agency has focused its reports on domestic economic matters and sports, while foreign ministry statements have centered on diplomatic meetings and greetings.