Trump Threatens Oman With Bombing Over Strait Deal, Then Says U.S. Won’t Need Action
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 27
Trump Threatens Oman With Bombing Over Strait Deal, Then Says U.S. Won’t Need Action
10 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 27
At a Cabinet meeting, Trump warned Oman not to strike any deal with Iran to share control of the Strait of Hormuz, saying the U.S. would "have to blow them up" if it did.
Minutes later, he softened the threat, saying Oman "will be fine" and insisting the strait must stay open to all shipping, with no country allowed to control it.
The warning was triggered by discussions between Iran and Oman on a system to charge vessels fees for passing through the waterway, despite U.S. objections.
Nearly 90 days after Iran shut the strait following the Feb. 28 U.S.-Israeli attacks, hopes for a quick reopening deal remained dim as Washington and Tehran escalated hostilities again this week.
Is threatening a neutral ally the new U.S. strategy for achieving peace in the Middle East?
How can Oman survive being caught between American threats and Iranian aggression in the strategic Strait of Hormuz?
What unseen economic damage is the Hormuz closure causing globally beyond just high gas prices?
The 2026 Hormuz Standoff: Trump’s Ultimatum, Regional Diplomacy, and the Global Economic Fallout
Overview
As of May 27, 2026, the Strait of Hormuz has been nearly closed for 90 days, causing a major global energy crisis. President Trump ordered a U.S. military blockade of Iranian ports after failed talks with Iran, warning that any Iranian ships approaching the blockade would be eliminated. The U.S. aims to pressure Iran to reopen the strait, but Iran rejected a temporary ceasefire and demanded a permanent end to the conflict. This standoff has led to severe economic and diplomatic tensions, with no immediate resolution in sight and significant risks for global energy security.