Iran-Oman Talks Seen as Key Step Toward Persian Gulf Security

TEHRAN: Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has described a meeting scheduled for Monday in Oman as a key step toward strengthening stability and security in the Persian Gulf region. Speaking to Al Mayadeen, Baghaei said the planned meeting between Iran and the Persian Gulf states was the outcome of a broader diplomatic process rather than a recently initiated effort. He noted that major regional developments had taken place over the past six months and stressed that Iran respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of neighboring countries.

Baghaei said that although Iran’s military operations had targeted US military bases located in some Persian Gulf countries, Tehran had repeatedly emphasized that it was not at war with those states. He said the upcoming meeting would provide an opportunity to address regional security concerns and strengthen dialogue among Gulf countries. The talks are also expected to consider recent Iran-Oman discussions on establishing safe routes for commercial shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Iran and Oman have been negotiating for nearly three months over arrangements to facilitate safe navigation through the waterway. On August 25, the two sides announced discussions on a phased framework that would initially establish a temporary joint maritime corridor, alongside a joint mine-clearance initiative. The proposed arrangements are aimed at improving maritime security and ensuring safer passage for commercial vessels through one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.