Oman likely to stand firm on neutrality in Hormuz dispute
By Delaram Ahmadi
Staff writer
As Iran is coordinating with Oman on establishing a new legal regime for the Strait of Hormuz and collecting fees from transiting vessels, the US Treasury secretary has recently warned Muscat that it could face American penalties if it imposed charges for passage through the strategic waterway. Earlier, US President Donald Trump had also threatened that Oman would be “blown up” if it impeded free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. This came despite the fact that the US ally had announced no decision to assert sovereignty over the vital maritime corridor. Iran Daily discussed the implications of these developments with Emad Abshenas, an international affairs analyst. He believes Oman has consistently pursued a policy of neutrality and will continue to insist on maintaining that position in the current dispute.
IRAN DAILY: Can the recent US threats against Oman be viewed as a sign of Washington’s concern over the expansion of strategic cooperation between Tehran and Muscat on the security of the Strait of Hormuz and a possible erosion of traditional US influence over this vital passage?
ABSHENAS: Broadly speaking, the United States, in its ongoing negotiations with Iran, is highly focused on restoring its position in the region among Arab states and the wider international community after the embarrassment suffered by the US military during the war with Iran. One reason behind these threats against Oman may be linked to that objective.
Another factor is that Oman was among the Arab countries that strongly opposed the use of its territory by the United States against Iran, a stance that caused dissatisfaction in Washington.
Oman is a country that has generally sought to play a neutral role and has consistently insisted that its neutrality be respected. US officials have found this position frustrating, and these threats can be seen as a response to that frustration.
What is surprising is the silence of Arab countries regarding such an explicit threat against an Arab state that is a member of the Arab League. On the other hand, even the United Nations has remained silent regarding these remarks. This demonstrates how international institutions have increasingly lost their identity and effectiveness.
What impact could such threats have on Oman’s strategic calculations? Could Muscat be compelled to adjust some of its policies in order to avoid tensions with Washington, or, conversely, might these pressures strengthen Oman’s determination to preserve its independence and even deepen cooperation with Iran?
Based on my understanding of Oman, it is likely that the country will continue to insist on maintaining its neutral position.
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