U.S. Pushes Oman to Abandon Neutrality with Iran

The Trump administration is intensifying pressure on longtime ally Oman to sever or sharply reduce its diplomatic ties with Iran, viewing the Gulf sultanate’s traditional neutrality as increasingly hostile to U.S. interests amid ongoing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.

According to a detailed Wall Street Journal report published Monday, U.S. officials have demanded that Oman “pick a side” following intelligence assessments suggesting Muscat might support or join Iran in imposing tolls on vessels transiting the strategic waterway, which carries about one-fifth of global oil trade.

Oman has repeatedly and firmly denied any plans to participate in a tolling system. Omani officials, including the ambassador in Washington, have assured U.S. counterparts there are “no plans for tolling.”

Trump’s Blunt Warning

President Donald Trump escalated the rhetoric last Wednesday during a Cabinet meeting, stating that if Oman cooperated with Iran on controlling or charging fees in the strait, the U.S. might respond with military force.

“Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we’ll have to blow them up,” Trump said.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reinforced the message on social media, warning that the U.S. would “aggressively target” any actors facilitating tolls and that willing partners would be penalized. He later confirmed receiving assurances from Oman’s ambassador.

Broader Context: The Hormuz Crisis

The pressure comes against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire and stalled negotiations following the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran earlier in 2026. Iran has sought to maintain influence over the strait, creating a “Persian Gulf Strait Authority” and reportedly discussing fee-based systems or limited daily ship crossings. Some vessels have reportedly paid significant sums or sailed “dark” to avoid restrictions.

The U.S. has strongly opposed any tolls, viewing them as unacceptable interference in international waters, and has sanctioned Iranian entities involved. Washington has also pushed for full reopening of the strait without Iranian or joint control.

Oman’s Position

Oman has long positioned itself as a neutral mediator in regional disputes, maintaining ties with both Washington and Tehran. It has hosted past U.S.-Iran talks and emphasizes “friends to all, enemies to none.” Omani leaders expressed surprise at the sharp U.S. tone and reaffirmed their commitment to freedom of navigation and regional stability.

Oman continues to deny involvement in any tolling scheme, while the Trump administration shows no signs of easing its demands for clearer alignment against Iran.