Trump says US could bomb Oman if it ‘gets in the way’

US President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Oman on Monday if it interferes with ongoing talks with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst, Trump stated, "If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the s*** out of them." The talks involve control of the strait and Washington is pursuing its own negotiations.

Iranian and Omani officials have been discussing maritime navigation arrangements through the shipping route, with Tehran reportedly working on a joint declaration. However, Trump has claimed the strait, which Tehran had effectively closed at the beginning of the Middle East war, is under US control despite current traffic restrictions.

On Friday, Trump suggested he would declare the strait part of US territory. Iran has countered that the strategic waterway, which is blocked by Tehran, will remain under its control. The strait, which connects the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea, is crucial for global energy shipments. Tehran had previously used its control over the strait as leverage against US attempts to eliminate its military and halt its nuclear program.

Trump also suggested Iran should "put up the white flag of surrender," according to Yingst's statement on X following his interview with the president. Trump claimed there is a direct communication line between his administration and officials of Iran's Revolutionary Guard. He remarked that these officials are "good poker players, but they’re dying."