Trump’s Bombing Threats Have a Golf Course Problem

On Monday, President Donald Trump declared a stern warning towards America's ally, Oman, saying "If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the shit out of them." This aggressive statement came about due to concerns that Oman might cooperate with Iran in ending the war. Amidst this unexpected tone, it's also a matter of how Trump's personal enrichment activities have complicated US foreign policy.

Trump has multiple business ventures, including a lavish golf course and real estate deal in Oman, situated right on the edge of the Gulf of Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz. The lucrative terms of this deal were granted by the Omani government. Despite the incendiary remarks against Oman, it's uncertain whether Trump would still go through with the bombing given this financial interest.

However, the undeniable reality that he has a significant money-making opportunity in the same location where he suggests bombing does raise questions about his decision-making process as commander-in-chief and as an international developer.

The project, built by Saudi real estate developer Dar Global, offers luxurious units starting at a mere $1 million, set against an idyllic backdrop of sun-drenched water and brown desert rock outcroppings. During this year, Trump made $1 million from the deal. The website touts its "ideal location," boasting easy access to the Persian Gulf, a few hundred miles away via the Strait of Hormuz, and notes Oman as one of the safest countries in the world.

However, conflicts of interest in such ventures are not new. Trump's personal business interests overlap with US national security interests in various locations, including South Korea. While Trump technically doesn't own any property in Oman, he earns money through licensing deals, managing the property, and selling luxury villas, amassing $6.8 million in Oman alone, before construction even begins.

This situation presents a significant conflict of interest, considering Trump's business endeavors are located in conflict zones, and his main way of making money is through marketing luxury and peace, which enemies are undoubtedly aware of.