Tensions surrounding the U.S.-Iran war escalated on Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the United States could attack Oman if Muscat interferes with Washington’s efforts to resolve the dispute over the Strait of Hormuz. The warning came as Oman continued its role as a key intermediary between Washington and Tehran.

Trump, speaking in a Fox News interview, said Iran should surrender and reiterated that preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon remains his primary objective. He also warned Oman against taking steps that, in his view, could obstruct U.S. efforts regarding the strategic waterway.

The remarks came as Iran and Oman were reportedly working toward an understanding aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route. The proposed arrangement includes designated shipping routes and mechanisms intended to facilitate safer maritime traffic.

Oman has traditionally maintained close ties with Washington while also serving as an important diplomatic channel between the United States and Iran. Its mediation role has become increasingly significant as negotiations over the conflict have stalled.

The Strait of Hormuz has remained heavily disrupted during the conflict, sharply reducing commercial shipping. Reuters reported that only five vessels transited the waterway on Saturday and none on Sunday, compared with 31 during the previous weekend.

The disruption has also kept pressure on global energy markets. Brent crude was trading around $88.58 a barrel on Monday, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate stood near $82.22. Analysts said markets had already priced in much of the supply disruption, but prolonged restrictions on shipping could trigger another significant rise in energy costs.

Trump’s warning against Oman adds another layer of uncertainty to an already fragile diplomatic situation. With negotiations stalled and maritime traffic severely constrained, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of the wider geopolitical and economic crisis.