President Donald Trump stated during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday that Oman “will behave” regarding the Strait of Hormuz, adding, “Or else we’ll have to blow them up.” The comments were made in the context of ongoing tensions surrounding the strategic waterway, which has reportedly been blockaded by Iran.
The president’s remarks followed reports from the Associated Press, citing a regional official, that Iran and Oman were in discussions to implement a toll for vessels passing through the strait.
“The strait is going to be open to everybody,” Trump said during the meeting. “Nobody’s going to control it. We’re going to watch over it… That’s part of the negotiation that we have.”
Addressing the reported talks between Oman and Iran, Trump continued, “They would like to control it. Oman will behave just like everybody else. Or else we’ll have to blow them up. They understand that. They’ll be fine.”
The White House has not issued a clarification on the president’s statement. The Embassy of Oman in Washington did not immediately provide a response to requests for comment.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel for global energy shipments, typically facilitates the transit of approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply. According to reports, Iran has restricted passage through the strait since late February.
Oman, a Gulf nation with long-standing military and economic ties to the United States, has previously acted as a mediator in regional conflicts.
During the same cabinet meeting, President Trump also addressed the status of peace negotiations with Iran, stating his belief that Iran is attempting to delay an agreement until after the U.S. midterm elections in November.
The administration’s diplomatic efforts have drawn comment from members of Congress. Senator Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, posted on social media that a “rumored 60-day ceasefire” with Iran would be a “disaster.” He added, “Everything accomplished by Operation Epic Fury would be for naught.”
