Oman Expands Diplomatic Efforts Amid Tensions with Iran

Oman’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Reiterates Call for Diplomatic Solutions in Middle East Conflict

Omani Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr al-Busaidi has stated that diplomatic options remain available to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In a recent social media post, al-Busaidi emphasized the importance of an immediate ceasefire and a return to responsible regional diplomacy.

Al-Busaidi’s comments come after Oman had been mediating talks between Iran and the US before the US launched airstrikes on Tehran. The minister reiterated that peace was “within reach” hours before the attacks began. However, he did not provide details on specific diplomatic options.

US President Donald Trump has claimed that the US attacked Iran due to a perceived threat from the country. In contrast, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US knew Israel was about to bomb Iran and believed Tehran would retaliate against US facilities in the region.

Oman’s foreign minister pushed back on this characterization, stating that significant progress had been made in nuclear talks before the attacks occurred. The retaliatory strikes by Iran have targeted Israel and US forces across the Gulf region, including Oman. The country was struck by drones at its Duqm commercial port, resulting in an injured expatriate worker.

Majed al-Ansari, a spokesperson for Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the strike on Oman as “an attack on the very principle of mediation.” US President Trump expressed solidarity with Gulf countries, stating that Iran is targeting countries unrelated to the conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera