President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Oman and Iran during a White House Cabinet meeting, insisting that the Strait of Hormuz remain free of tolls. the comment came amid talks between the Gulf kingdom and Tehran about a possiible tolling system or joint management arrangement for the narrow waterway that carries roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Trump’s Cabinet Warning Signals U.S. Opposition to Omani‑Iranian Negotiations

According to the source, Trump’s remarks reflected a broader dispute over how far Oman should go in its efforts to engage Iran. the administration has strongly opposed reported discussions involving Iran and Oman over a potential tolling system, arguing such a move would threaten freedom of navigation and give Tehran greater influence over one of the world’s most important shipping routes.

Oman’s Role as the “Switzerland of the Middle East” Continues to Shape U.S. Strategy

Oman occupies the southern side of the Strait and has long pursued a foreign policy distinct from many Gulf neighbors. The source notes that Oman has served as a quiet mediator, acting as a go‑between for the United States and Iran in various negotiations , including for the Obama‑era JCPOA and more recently with the Trump administration and its efforts to negotiate with Iran prior to the 12‑day war in June 2025.

Who Met When? The April 2026 Omani‑Iranian Summit

The source reports that Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said at Al Baraka Palace in Muscat in April 2026. That meeting was part of the broader discussions about future management of the Strait, a topic that has drawn intense scrutiny from Washington.

Open Question: Will Oman Push Forward With a Tolling Proposal?

While the source confirms that the Trump administration opposes a tolling system, it does not reveal whether Oman has formally proposed such a scheme or what the details might be. The lack of comment from the Omani embassy and the White House leaves readers uncertain about the next steps in this high‑stakes negotiation.