Trump threatens to bomb Oman over Strait of Hormuz

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President Donald Trump has threatened to attack Oman, a US ally, if it “gets in the way” of his administration’s talks with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.

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The US president told Fox News on Monday that he can easily deal with Oman if it interferes with a potential deal with Iran.

“If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the s—- out of them,” he was quoted as saying.

Mr Trump’s threat comes as the Iran-US MoU, signed on 17 June expires. Monday marks the end of a 60-day deadline during which both countries are supposed to end the war and reach an agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme.

However, talks have stalled due to disagreement over control of the waterway, and there’s little to no sign that either side is willing to extend the agreement.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said “gross” US violations rendered the MoU deadline “entirely moot.” He also stated Iran’s forces are ready to respond if attacked.

The US and Oman have been negotiating separately with Tehran to reopen the crucial maritime route, which has been blockaded for nearly six months.

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Last Saturday, Iran’s semiofficial Mehr News Agency disclosed that Iran had reached an agreement with Oman on a plan for traffic in the waterway.

Meanwhile, Mr Trump has hardened his rhetoric toward Tehran, with his administration insinuating plans to intensify economic pressure.

READ ALSO: Trump threatens to make Strait of Hormuz US territory

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Trump earlier threatened to make the Strait of Hormuz a US territory, after successfully defeating Iran.

“After we finish defeating Iran, which is being very badly defeated, I’ll be declaring the Hormuz Strait a territory of the United States,” Mr Trump said.

The US leader is also now demanding that Tehran “put up the white flag of surrender.”