US pressures Oman to distance itself from Iran amid tensions over Strait of Hormuz

The United States is reportedly pressuring Oman to distance itself from Iran, according to media reports, amid growing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and Washington's broader efforts to counter Tehran's influence in the region.

The development marks a significant challenge to Oman's traditional policy of neutrality and mediation in Middle East conflicts.

According to the report, officials in the Trump administration have urged Oman to choose sides and scale back its diplomatic engagement with Tehran, arguing that Muscat's close contacts with Iran are no longer compatible with Washington's regional objectives.

Oman has long maintained cordial relations with both the United States and Iran and has frequently acted as an intermediary during periods of heightened tensions between the two countries.

The Gulf nation played a key role in facilitating back-channel communications between Washington and Tehran and has often positioned itself as a neutral actor in regional disputes.

The reported pressure comes amid an ongoing dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints through which a significant share of global oil shipments passes.

Recent reports suggested that Iran had proposed a framework under which Tehran and Oman would jointly manage shipping traffic through the waterway as part of a broader agreement to restore commercial navigation.

US President Donald Trump publicly rejected any suggestion that Iran or Oman would control the strait, describing it as an international waterway.

Last week, Trump also appeared to threaten Oman during remarks at a Cabinet meeting, saying the country would have to "behave" or face severe consequences if it supported efforts that could restrict free navigation through the strait.

The controversy intensified after reports emerged that US intelligence agencies believed Oman might support proposals related to tolls or fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Omani officials have denied any plans to impose such measures and have maintained that the country remains committed to maritime freedom and regional stability.

Oman's position has become increasingly delicate as it seeks to preserve its role as a regional mediator while maintaining close security and economic ties with the United States.

The country hosts important military cooperation arrangements with Washington but has also retained diplomatic channels with Tehran even during periods of confrontation between Iran and the West.

Oman, however, has defended its approach as a means of reducing tensions and promoting dialogue rather than supporting any particular side.