Muscat Postpones 'Hormuz' Dialogue in Search of Gulf-Regional Consensus

Muscat-Tehran-Agencies: The Sultanate of Oman announced the postponement of a regional meeting scheduled for today in Salalah, involving Iran, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and Iraq, to discuss the Strait of Hormuz file. The Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the meeting was postponed to a later date, justifying the decision by the need to “prepare suitable conditions for constructive dialogue” that leads to sustainable understandings supporting the security and stability of the region. Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi affirmed in a post on the X platform on Sunday evening that the postponement was part of efforts to achieve consensus, emphasizing Muscat’s continued support for regional dialogue and cooperation. Oman did not specify a new date for the meeting.

Following the Omani announcement, the Iranian state news agency (IRNA) quoted the Director General for Gulf Affairs at the Iranian Foreign Ministry as saying that the postponement was at the request of some regional countries and a joint decision between Tehran and Muscat. The Iranian official added that Tehran is closely coordinating with Muscat regarding the necessary arrangements to hold the meeting at an appropriate time.

Meanwhile, the US news network CNN reported that sources familiar with the matter stated that Oman’s legal framework regarding the Strait of Hormuz includes voluntary payments in exchange for ensuring navigational safety and environmental protection. It also noted that while the prospect of imposing Iranian fees remains widely rejected, there is willingness to consider voluntary contributions to facilitate passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump had previously stated that he does not care whether Gulf countries meet with Iran, leaving the matter to them.