Hormuz

ISLAMABAD: US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Oman, a longstanding American ally, stating it must behave like other countries regarding the Strait of Hormuz or face severe consequences.

Trump made the remarks during a cabinet meeting on Wednesday while addressing ongoing negotiations with Iran.

He emphasised that the strategic waterway must remain open to international traffic without control by any single nation.

The US president indicated potential military action if Oman collaborates with Iran on managing traffic through the strait.

Trump stated Iran remains eager for a nuclear-related agreement but no final deal has been reached.

He reiterated that Iran cannot acquire nuclear weapons under any circumstances.

**Official Statements** Trump said Oman will behave just like everybody else or “we will have to blow them up.”

He added that the United States could pursue the same approach with Iran as it did in Venezuela.

The president noted that planned action against Iran was halted at Pakistan’s request.

He once again described Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir as great personalities and fantastic leaders.

**Key Facts On Strait Of Hormuz** The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments during normal operations.

Daily transit volumes typically exceed 20 million barrels of oil.

Recent disruptions from regional conflict have pushed international oil prices above $90-110 per barrel at times.

Oman and Iran share coastlines along the narrow chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman.

**Background Context** Tensions escalated following US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier in 2026, leading to temporary closure of the strait.

Oman has maintained diplomatic channels with Tehran throughout the crisis, including discussions on safe transit protocols.

Pakistan played a mediating role in US-Iran talks hosted in Islamabad, contributing to temporary ceasefires and negotiation progress.

Trump previously praised Sharif and Munir for facilitating dialogue and preventing escalation.

**Reactions And Impact** The remarks have drawn attention across Gulf capitals, with concerns over stability in a vital energy corridor.

Iranian state media reported eagerness for an agreement that includes sanctions relief and limited enrichment rights.

Market observers noted short-term volatility in energy futures following Trump’s comments.

Pakistani officials have not issued immediate public responses to the renewed praise from the US president.

**Strategic Angle** The development highlights ongoing US efforts to maintain freedom of navigation in international waters while advancing maximum pressure on Iran’s nuclear programme.

Trump’s Venezuela comparison refers to earlier US military action that led to regime change there in early 2026.

Analysts suggest the threat to Oman reflects frustration with any potential regional arrangements that could limit US influence over the strait.

Pakistan’s role in backchannel diplomacy appears to have earned continued appreciation from Washington.

Future talks between the US and Iran are expected to focus on verifiable nuclear limits in exchange for phased sanctions adjustments.

The situation raises questions about long-term security arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz and broader Gulf stability.

Regional actors will likely monitor how Oman balances its alliance with the US and longstanding ties with Iran.

Developments in the coming days could influence oil supply chains and diplomatic alignments across South and West Asia.