• Trump threatens to "blow up" Oman if it collaborates with Iran on the Strait of Hormuz.
• His remarks came during a cabinet meeting discussing the strategic waterway's control.
• The U.S. and Oman have maintained over 200 years of diplomatic relations.

U.S. President Donald Trump recently threatened military action against Oman if it collaborates with Iran regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz. During a cabinet meeting, Trump stated, "Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we’ll have to blow them up," highlighting his administration’s frustration with Oman’s position amid ongoing tensions involving Iran's attempts to control the strait. He added, "The strait is going to be open to everybody. Nobody is going to control it... it’s international waters," according to Middle East Eye and Al Jazeera.

The threat follows reports that Iran and Oman were discussing a memorandum of understanding that would allow joint control over the strategic waterway, a plan that the Trump administration has labeled as a "complete fabrication." Following reports of the draft agreement, Trump’s remarks sparked criticism from advocacy groups, who likened his comments to those of a "mafia boss," as they are seen as unlawful under the UN Charter. Critics argue that threatening military action against Oman, a U.S. ally, is a reckless escalation of verbal hostilities, according to South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.

Historically, Oman has served as a mediator in U.S.-Iran relations and has maintained a friendly relationship with both countries. The U.S. and Oman have a longstanding partnership, stretching over 200 years, which includes several cooperation agreements in security, trade, and technology. The dynamic surrounding the Strait of Hormuz is crucial as it handles over 20 percent of the world’s oil traffic, making its control highly sensitive, as noted by Middle East Eye and South China Morning Post.

The escalating rhetoric stems from the ongoing conflict that erupted earlier this year when Israel and the U.S. initiated attacks on Iran, leading to heightened tensions in the region. Oman’s unique diplomatic position has allowed it to act as an intermediary, though recent events may strain this role. Trump's insistence that Oman comply with U.S. directives places additional pressure on the sultanate, challenging its historically neutral stance in the region, according to Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.