‘If Oman gets in the way, we will bomb...’: Trump issues threat amid US–Iran deal talks

Washington, United States: U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning on Monday, threatening military action against Oman if it interferes with potential U.S.-Iran negotiations regarding the Strait of Hormuz, while simultaneously demanding a full Iranian surrender.

"If Oman gets in the way, we'll bomb the shit out of them," Trump stated during an interview with Fox News journalist Trey Yingst.

The comments follow ongoing discussions between Omani and Iranian officials aimed at establishing future maritime navigation frameworks for the critical shipping passage. The Iranian foreign ministry confirmed earlier Monday that both nations were collaborating on a joint declaration.

Despite maritime traffic remaining significantly restricted following Tehran's blockade at the beginning of the Middle East conflict on February 28, Trump has repeatedly asserted that the waterway is under U.S. authority. On Friday, the president suggested declaring the Strait of Hormuz part of U.S. territory, drawing a swift response from Iranian officials who insisted the strategic energy corridor "will remain Iranian."

Historically recognised as an international waterway prior to the outbreak of hostilies, the strait serves as a primary transit route for global energy and commodity shipments. Iran, which borders the northern shore opposite Oman on the south, has leveraged its presence along the route against U.S.-led military operations and efforts targeting its nuclear program.

In a summary of the interview posted on X, Yingst noted that Trump called on Tehran to "put up the white flag of surrender."

Despite growing public domestic opposition to the conflict ahead of the upcoming U.S. midterm elections—where Democrats are challenging the Republican congressional majority—Trump stated he was not rushing to finalise a deal.

Trump also revealed the existence of a direct back-channel between his administration and representatives of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. "They're good poker players, but they're dying," Trump said. (AFP)