Trump threatens to bomb key ally as deadline to end conflict passes

President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Oman if it interferes with a US deal with Iran regarding control of the Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating tensions over the waterway. The strategic passage, vital for global oil trade, has been effectively closed by Iran since February 28, causing rising fuel prices and political pressure on Republicans ahead of November's midterm elections.

Trump told Fox News journalist Trey Yingst, "If Oman gets in the way, we'll bomb the shit out of them," referring to ongoing talks between Oman and Iran regarding the strait's control. Oman, a US ally in the Gulf, has not commented on Trump's remarks. Tehran and Muscat have been discussing future navigation arrangements, but the talks stalled after the collapse of a US-Iran deal aimed at keeping the strait open.

Iran's foreign ministry said earlier Monday that the two sides were working on a joint declaration. The president has insisted that the strait is under US control despite traffic being heavily restricted. Iran has responded, insisting the waterway will remain Iranian. The strait was previously considered an open international route carrying about a fifth of global oil supplies.

Iran has used its control over the strait as leverage against US efforts to weaken its military and end its nuclear program. Trump indicated he was not eager to reach a deal, citing opposition to the war and Democratic efforts to seize control of Congress in the midterm elections. He also mentioned a direct communication channel with Iran's Revolutionary Guard, describing them as skilled negotiators but "dying."

Allies, including Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, have called for diplomacy to ease tensions, emphasizing the need for full diplomatic utilization. The Strait of Hormuz remains the pivotal point of conflict, with Iran restricting traffic and Houthi rebels in Yemen launching a parallel blockade in the Red Sea, the kingdom's sole alternative route for oil exports.