Gulf countries and Iran to meet in Oman: Strait of Hormuz and regional security on the table

Iraq and Gulf countries will hold a meeting in Oman on Monday to address the ongoing regional crisis and the situation in the blockaded Strait of Hormuz.

Agenda of the Oman Meeting and the Strait of Hormuz

Iraq and Gulf countries are coming together in Oman to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, which is under Tehran's blockade, in the shadow of the diplomatic impasse with the US and ongoing regional conflicts. Global energy supplies are facing disruptions that also affect Gulf countries, which rely heavily on oil for their budgets.

Statements and Expectations from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the meeting aims to develop better understanding among regional countries and strengthen shared regional security. Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated that this gathering is an indicator of goodwill toward ensuring regional security without foreign intervention.

Bahrain's Grounds for Boycotting the Meeting

Bahrain, a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council, announced that it will not attend the planned meeting. Pointing to infrastructure attacks, the Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that they will not take part in a joint meeting until diplomatic relations with Iran are reestablished and the attacks cease.

Agreement and Expectations Between Iran and Muscat

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted that the expected agreement with Muscat to manage the Strait of Hormuz will not reopen the waterway, and that Tehran continues to expect the US to abide by its commitments under the June memorandum of understanding.