Trump threatens to bomb Oman, widening the war that crippled the global economy
The oil chokepoint is under fire from multiple directions as Trump pushes Oman for a tougher line on Iran shipping traffic.
U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Oman on Tuesday, escalating tensions in a war that has crippled the global economy. Oman is working with Iran to manage ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil and natural gas supplies. However, the Trump administration opposes certain aspects of the yet-to-be-announced deal, including joint Iranian and Omani management of the strait.
A projectile hit a ship sailing out of the strait, causing damage to a cargo vessel, according to the British military's maritime monitoring agency. The United Arab Emirates defense ministry reported that Iran launched two ballistic missiles toward the UAE, though no damage or injuries were reported. Iran insisted that the strait would not reopen until the United States meets its conditions.
Trump believes Oman has not been tough enough with Iran in negotiations, appearing to disregard the country's agreement to collect voluntary fees from vessels. The U.S. claims the strait is under its control, and Trump has hinted at declaring it a U.S. territory. Iran referred to Trump's comments as delusional. Meanwhile, attacks on shipping continue to threaten global trade routes as more missiles are fired in the region.
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