The threat to Oman has triggered widespread confusion after US President Donald Trump appeared to suggest possible military action against Oman during a televised cabinet meeting at the White House.
The threat emerged while Trump responded to questions about regional maritime security and control of strategic shipping routes in the Middle East.
Confusion over Oman and Iran remarks
During the discussion, Trump appeared to mix references to Oman, Iran and Venezuela, prompting uncertainty over whether he intended to refer to Oman directly or made a verbal error.
The statement quickly circulated after video footage of the meeting was shared online via the US State Department’s official X account.
Observers noted that Oman is a long-standing US partner in the region and plays a diplomatic role in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
Strategic context of Strait of Hormuz
Trump’s remarks came amid discussion of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping lanes.
He dismissed concerns over any attempt to restrict access, stating that the waterway would remain open and under international oversight.
The comments were made in response to questions about potential control scenarios involving regional powers.
US response and regional role
The White House did not immediately clarify the remarks when asked for comment.
Oman has traditionally acted as a mediator in regional tensions, including facilitating indirect communication between the United States and Iran.
The threat toward Oman has therefore drawn attention from analysts, given Muscat’s established diplomatic role and close ties with Washington.
Trump’s history of verbal mix-ups
Trump, 79, has previously been noted for confusing country names during public statements, including mixing up Albania and Armenia, as well as Iceland and Greenland in earlier remarks.
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