The Real Purpose Behind the Omani Foreign Minister’s Visit to Tehran: The First Step in a New Round of Iran-U.S. Talks?

Sunday, February 02, 2025  Read time3 min

SAEDNEWS: The Foreign Minister of Oman stated that during his visit to Tehran, he carried a written message from the Sultan of Oman to Mr. Pezeshkian. He emphasized that this message is part of the ongoing consultations between the two countries and a reaffirmation of their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

The Real Purpose Behind the Omani Foreign Minister’s Visit to Tehran: The First Step in a New Round of Iran-U.S. Talks?

According to SaedNews, Iran's Foreign Minister stated that Iran-Oman cooperation in political, economic, and other fields is expanding. During a joint press conference with Badr Al-Busaidi, the Omani Foreign Minister, in Tehran, Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that Al-Busaidi’s visit was timely and important.

Iran-Oman Joint Commission to Convene Next Month

Araghchi announced that the Iran-Oman Joint Commission will meet next month in Muscat. He highlighted that the trade volume between Iran and Oman has tripled from 2020 to 2023, reaching $2.5 billion last year. He added that bilateral relations in politics, economics, and culture continue to grow through regular diplomatic consultations.

Was Oman Carrying a Message from the U.S.?

When asked whether Oman was carrying a message from a third country—specifically, the U.S.—to Iran, Araghchi responded:

"The Omani government has always been willing to facilitate relations between Iran and certain countries, and when necessary, communications have been established."

He acknowledged that Oman has played a key role in nuclear negotiations, both before and after the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA. However, he denied the exchange of any messages during this visit, stating:

"If necessary, such exchanges will take place, but at the moment, no message has been conveyed."

Iran to Continue Indirect Talks with the U.S. Through the Swiss Embassy

Araghchi clarified that Iran will continue exchanging messages with the U.S. at the appropriate time through the Swiss Embassy in Tehran. He added that Oman may also facilitate communications when necessary, but currently, no such exchange has taken place.

Discussions on Regional Issues

The Iranian and Omani delegations discussed various regional issues, including:

  • The necessity of stopping Israel’s crimes in Gaza.

  • Israel’s continued occupation of Syrian territories and its large-scale attacks on Syrian infrastructure.

  • The urgent need for an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza.

Iran and Oman Call for Stability in Syria

Araghchi emphasized that both Iran and Oman support Syria’s territorial integrity and non-interference in its internal affairs. He stressed the importance of protecting the rights of all ethnic and religious groups in Syria and the formation of an inclusive government.

"We all want peace in Syria and a comprehensive government that represents all Syrian factions. We also insist on ending Israel’s occupation of Syrian land."

Condemning U.S. and Israeli Attacks on Yemen

Araghchi also discussed developments in Yemen, stating:

"We strongly condemn the military attacks by the U.S. and Israel on Yemen. We emphasize the importance of preserving Yemen’s territorial integrity and urge the swift resumption of peace talks to prevent external conspiracies aimed at sparking a civil war."

Omani Foreign Minister: "I Carry a Written Message from the Sultan of Oman for Pezeshkian"

Badr Al-Busaidi, Oman’s Foreign Minister, confirmed that he carried a written message from the Sultan of Oman to Pezeshkian, emphasizing that the message was related to continued bilateral consultations and expanding relations.

During the joint press conference, Al-Busaidi stated that he had productive discussions with Araghchi and reaffirmed the commitment to regional and international dialogue.

Agreement on New Cooperation Steps

Al-Busaidi revealed that both countries agreed to take new steps to enhance trade and investment relations. He also mentioned discussions on regional developments, including Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine, and reiterated support for the Palestinian people’s struggle for independence and peace.

Oman’s Position on Syria

When asked about Oman’s stance on Syria and Israeli aggression, Al-Busaidi reaffirmed:

"Like Iran, we support the policy of non-interference in other nations' internal affairs. We back Syria’s independence and territorial integrity and hope Syria can restore its regional and international role while maintaining stable relations with Arab and global partners."

He emphasized that within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Arab League, Oman will continue to advocate for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.