Washington: President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Oman, threatening military action unless the Gulf nation complies with US demands. In a statement made during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Wednesday, Trump asserted that Oman must "behave" or face potential attacks from the United States.

According to Anadolu Agency, the specifics of what prompted President Trump's warning remain unclear, as the White House has not provided further comments on the matter. Oman has historically acted as a mediator between the US and Iran, and recent reports suggest it is working alongside Iran to establish a toll system for ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz. This move aligns with Tehran's demands amid ongoing negotiations to end the conflict initiated by the US and Israel on February 28.

Oman's strategic location includes an exclave on the southern tip of the Strait of Hormuz, directly opposite Iran. Trump emphasized the international status of the strait, stating, "Nobody's going to control it," while assuring that the US will "watch over it."

Addressing the broader negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, Trump expressed dissatisfaction but remained hopeful about reaching an agreement. He noted that Iran is under significant pressure and eager to negotiate, yet a deal remains elusive. Trump hinted at the possibility of resuming military actions if necessary, as Iran is "negotiating on fumes."

The ongoing discussions have raised concerns about Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, with Trump dismissing any possibility of allowing China or Russia to take possession of the nuclear material. "No, I wouldn't be comfortable," he stated.

Tensions in the region escalated on February 28 when the US and Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran, prompting retaliatory drone and missile strikes from Tehran. The conflict led to the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire, facilitated by Pakistan, came into effect on April 8, but subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to yield a lasting solution.

Despite extending the truce indefinitely, Trump has maintained a blockade on vessels traveling through the strategic waterway to or from Iranian ports, occasionally claiming that a peace agreement is within reach.