President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Oman if the nation interferes in his administration's military campaign against Iran, according to an interview with Fox News' Trey Yingst. The threat comes as a 60-day ceasefire between the US and Iran expires tomorrow, with tensions rising anew.
Trump's Warning to Oman
Speaking to reporters, Trump said: 'If Oman gets in the way, we'll bomb the s*** out of them.' The President's remarks were directed at Oman, which has been involved in negotiations to reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump also mentioned that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had established a back channel with his administration to continue peace talks.
In the interview, Trump described the Iranians as 'good poker players' but asserted they are 'dying.' He added, 'I have no time schedule. I'm not in a hurry.' These comments suggest a prolonged standoff, even as diplomatic channels remain open.
Ceasefire Deadline and Rising Tensions
The 60-day ceasefire between the US and Iran ends tomorrow, and tensions are escalating. This weekend, the Iranian military announced a bounty of $30,000 for anyone who kills or kidnaps US soldiers in the region, with a higher reward of $60,000 if a woman carries out the act. This comes despite the fact that there are no ground deployments of US soldiers in Iran; only continued air strikes are occurring.
As the conflict enters its fifth month, prospects for a peaceful resolution appear increasingly unlikely. Earlier this month, the US military emailed staff, requesting suggestions on how to 'punish' Iran. A senior US military command sent the email, seen by CNN, to high-ranking military analysts last week, asking for 'new, creative, and unconventional ways to pressure and punish Iran.'
Pentagon's Call for Innovative Strategies
US Central Command (CENTCOM) spokesperson Captain Timothy Hawkins commented on the email, stating: 'US Central Command has a long history of thinking and working in innovative ways.' He added, 'Admiral Cooper, in particular, reaches out to members of our great team, regardless of rank, to achieve the highest levels of operational performance possible.'
The email represents the latest effort by the Trump administration to find a resolution to the war with Iran, which began in late February. With the ceasefire expiring, the international community watches closely as both sides signal continued hostilities.
