Kathmandu— Former U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to bomb Oman because he opposes the country’s ongoing discussions with Iran about managing ship traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, according to two regional officials who were briefed on the situation. The threat came a day after Trump publicly voiced his discontent and posted a map on social media depicting the strait as U.S. territory. The dispute centers around an agreement that would allow joint Iranian and Omani management of the passage, which is critical for global oil and natural gas supplies, while the U.S. believes Oman has not taken a firm enough stance against Iran.

Dispute Over Strait of Hormuz Control

The U.S. administration reportedly opposes aspects of the unannounced deal between Oman and Iran, specifically the joint management of the exit route from the Strait of Hormuz. Officials stated that Washington believes Oman has not been assertive enough in its negotiations with Tehran and is unhappy with an agreement to collect voluntary fees from vessels passing through the strait, even if those fees are intended for security and environmental protection. Trump initially mentioned the idea of claiming the strait as U.S. territory last week, then reiterated it Monday while speaking to reporters.

Escalating Regional Tensions

The threats against Oman come amid a backdrop of increased regional tensions and reported attacks on maritime vessels. A projectile struck a ship sailing out of the Strait of Hormuz, causing damage, and a cargo vessel was declared a “constructive total loss” after being hit by multiple projectiles off the coast of Yemen. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates claimed two ballistic missiles were launched from Iran toward its territory, though they fell into the sea without causing damage or injuries.

Iranian Response to U.S. Pressure

Iran has signaled it will not allow unimpeded shipping through the Strait of Hormuz until the U.S. meets certain conditions, including lifting a blockade, releasing frozen assets, and ending sanctions. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi responded to Trump’s social media post claiming ownership of the strait, stating that Trump’s “delusion” would be corrected either by him or by Iran itself. Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, reiterated Tehran’s stance on maintaining control over shipping traffic until Washington fulfills its commitments.

Egyptian Mediation Efforts

Egypt expressed hope that the Iranian-Omani deal could facilitate renewed negotiations between the U.S. and Iran for a “comprehensive and permanent deal” to address regional concerns and enhance stability. This statement followed a meeting between Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and his Omani counterpart, Badr al-Busaidi. However, Egypt did not directly address Trump’s threat against Oman.

Trump insisted Tuesday that the strait is “open and operating,” despite recent attacks and the end of a 60-day negotiation period between the U.S. and Iran. Regional tensions remain high as negotiations stall and incidents at sea continue to be reported.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.