Trump Threatens Oman as Hormuz Ceasefire Expires

As the U.S.-Iran ceasefire framework nears expiration, President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Oman if it interferes with talks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring spillover risk. Oman is described as a longtime mediator and is now reportedly negotiating a transit-route map to resume strait passage, placing it at the center of pressure from both sides. Trump says talks are back-channel with no fixed timeline, while the U.S. maintains freedom of navigation is essential and continues naval pressure on Iran. Iran and Oman are reportedly pursuing parallel arrangements to manage pipeline and transit duties, signaling deeper coordination beyond the current framework. Analysts warn threats could complicate diplomacy and hinder other mediation efforts by states like Pakistan and Qatar, sustaining volatility over the strait. The broader regional context, including Yemen and Houthis, continues to constrain prospects for de-escalation and heighten miscalculation risk.