United States pressures Oman to reconsider its neutral stance toward Iran

According to a Wall Street Journal report, the United States is urging Oman to abandon its neutrality in the regional standoff with Iran. Citing U.S. and Arab officials, the report states that Washington now views Muscat's diplomatic flexibility toward Tehran as a potential security threat. Oman, which has historically acted as a mediator between the two nations, has expressed surprise at the sudden demand from the U.S. Omani Information Minister Abdullah Al-Harasi stated that his country remains committed to regional stability and maintaining communication channels to prevent further escalation. While U.S. officials push for a definitive alignment, sources indicate that Oman has not formally condemned Iran for recent maritime incidents despite reports of drone activity near its ports. The Omani government is currently reviewing its response to the American pressure. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain as the region navigates ongoing tensions.