U.S. Officials Discuss Oman Neutral Stance on Strait of Hormuz Tolls

U.S. officials have warned Oman that its continued neutrality in the Strait of Hormuz dispute risks sanctions or military strikes. The warnings follow an intelligence assessment that concluded Oman might cooperate with Iran on a vessel-tolling plan. Oman has denied any such plans.

Oman has provided limited logistical support to U.S. forces since the start of recent regional hostilities. Officials described the assistance as small in scale. Oman has also supplied navigational guidance, search-and-rescue services, and medical aid to ships, including U.S.-flagged vessels, transiting the strait.

During a cabinet meeting last week, President Trump stated that Oman must follow U.S.-backed international norms or face unspecified consequences. Omani Information Minister Abdulla al-Harrasi said the country remains ready to work with the United States and other partners to promote stability and protect mutual interests.

Oman was the only Persian Gulf state that declined to sign a May statement condemning Iran’s toll proposal.