US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Oman, saying the United States could take military action against the country if it interferes with Washington’s efforts in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Trump made the remarks while speaking to Fox News, where he also discussed communication between his administration and Iranian officials as both sides continue to face rising tensions.
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According to Trump, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had established a back channel with his administration as efforts to maintain communication continued.
Describing the Iranians as difficult negotiators, Trump said:
“They’re good poker players, but they’re dying. I have no time schedule. I’m not in a hurry.”
Trump Warns Oman Over Strait of Hormuz
Trump also addressed Oman’s involvement in negotiations surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway that plays a major role in international oil transportation.
Oman has been involved in diplomatic efforts aimed at finding a way to reopen the waterway and ease tensions surrounding the conflict.
However, Trump issued a direct warning when discussing the possibility of Oman interfering with American objectives.
He told reporters:
“If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the s*** out of them.”
The unusually harsh warning comes as relations between the United States and Iran remain tense and efforts to reach a lasting agreement continue.
The 60-day ceasefire between the United States and Iran is due to expire, raising concerns that hostilities could intensify once again.
The situation has become increasingly tense, with both countries maintaining firm positions over the issues at the centre of the conflict.
The Iranian military has also reportedly announced financial rewards for anyone who kills or kidnaps American soldiers in the region, further raising concerns about the safety of US personnel.
The United States does not currently have ground troops deployed inside Iran, although American military operations in the region have continued through air strikes.
The conflict has now entered its fifth month, with efforts to establish a permanent peace agreement facing serious difficulties.
Earlier this month, senior US military officials reportedly asked analysts to provide new ideas on ways the United States could increase pressure on Iran.