Why Trump Is Threatening Again to Bomb Oman

President Trump has threatened to bomb Oman after weeks of promises that Iran would sign a nuclear deal and Oman could assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The tiny Gulf nation has become central to the effort to end the war, but the deal has remained elusive. Trump expressed frustration with the situation on Monday, alleging that Oman may be obstructing an agreement.

He told reporters that he believes Oman did not behave well, but stated that they could handle them easily, similar to their approach with other nations. The White House had previously stated that Oman was in talks with Iran to allow more commercial traffic in the waterway, which could ease pressure on the global energy market and higher domestic gas prices.

However, there remains concern within the administration that Oman might aid Iran in brokering a nuclear deal more favorable to Tehran, fueling Trump's anger. In addition to Oman, Trump has also targeted other countries, such as South Korea and European allies, for not doing more to help end the Iran conflict he initiated. Some senior aides privately suspect Oman of being a duplicitous actor that largely sides with Iran, while others argue that Oman's longstanding ties to Iran could be beneficial to the mediation process.

Trump reportedly wants an agreement that fully reopens the strait, which would allow a fifth of the world's oil and energy to flow through. However, the Iran-Oman deal could potentially solidify Tehran's control over the strait, according to U.S. officials. The debate within the administration about how to handle Oman continues, as they grapple with whether to view Oman as a potential obstacle or a valuable player in resolving the Iran conflict.