According to The Guardian on June 4, Oman is resisting U.S. demands to cease its discussions with Iran. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) previously reported that the U.S. is urging Oman to sever ties with Iran and align more closely with American interests. Citing U.S. and Arab officials, the WSJ noted that Washington has begun to view Oman's neutral stance as contrary to U.S. interests.
The core issue revolves around navigation in the Hormuz Strait. Iran has been advocating for a management and toll system for passage through the strait, which the U.S. perceives as a threat to the freedom of navigation in international waters. The U.S. is concerned that Oman may cooperate with Iran's proposal.
Oman has clarified that it does not support Iran's toll proposal. It stated that discussions with Iran are aimed at addressing future management of the Hormuz Strait within the framework of international law and the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO). Oman has also reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the principle of free navigation in the strait.
While maintaining security cooperation with the U.S., Oman has kept diplomatic channels open with Iran. It has served as a point of contact for both sides, even when direct dialogue between the U.S. and Iran has been challenging.
This conflict highlights the growing diplomatic tensions surrounding the Hormuz Strait. While the U.S. demands that Oman distance itself from Iran, Oman remains committed to facilitating discussions on strait management and acting as a mediator between the U.S. and Iran.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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