Trump warns of bombing Oman if it blocks Iran deal
Former US president says he would strike Oman should the Gulf nation impede negotiations to revive the Iran nuclear accord
During a recent interview, former President Donald Trump warned that the United States would consider bombing the Sultanate of Oman if the country got in the way of renewed talks on the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement. The stark remark was aimed at pressuring Oman, which has been conducting its own diplomatic outreach to Tehran in an effort to ease tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Omani officials have been meeting Iranian representatives behind the scenes, offering to act as a mediator that could help restart negotiations and potentially lift sanctions on Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil passes, has been a flashpoint for regional security, and Oman's involvement is seen as a constructive step by many observers.
Trump’s warning came as a 60‑day diplomatic window set for a new round of negotiations on the nuclear deal is about to close. International bodies and European powers have repeatedly urged both Tehran and Washington to keep the channel open, warning that a breakdown could destabilise an already volatile region.
The comment stands in contrast to the current administration’s approach, which has kept the Iran deal in place while seeking a broader regional security framework. Critics argue that threatening an ally could undermine coalition‑building efforts, while supporters claim a hard line is necessary to pressure Iran into compliance.
No official response from Omani authorities has been released, and the U.S. State Department has not commented on the specific threat. The episode highlights the delicate balance of power in the Gulf, where nations must weigh the benefits of dialogue against the risk of escalation.
Original reporting: BBC News.