Oman: US President Donald Trump on Monday issued a stark warning, threatening military action against Oman if it interferes with the United States' shipping agreement in the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement came amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, following an attack on the Prime Minister's office in Iraqi Kurdistan by Iranian drones, as reported by authorities on Monday.
According to France24.com, these developments occur against the backdrop of diplomatic efforts involving US negotiator and President Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who engaged in discussions with the Hamas chief on Sunday. This meeting aimed at progressing a stalled Gaza ceasefire, preceding a crucial meeting with Israel's Prime Minister. The Israeli leader faces mounting pressure after turning down a new 15-point roadmap supported by the US.
In related events, an extremist Israeli lawmaker within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition made incendiary remarks advocating for nightly violence against Gaza, which were swiftly circulated by Palestinian media. Meanwhile, the US Central Command highlighted a visit by the top US military commander in the Middle East to the USS Lincoln, commending the ship's leadership amidst regional tensions.
Additionally, Iran's military announced a significant bounty for the killing or capturing of US soldiers, with the reward being doubled for actions carried out by women, further escalating the fraught geopolitical climate.