Oman strengthens role as regional peace broker

Oman continues to consolidate its position as a pillar of stability and a trusted mediator in a region marked by political uncertainty and prolonged conflicts.
Guided by a foreign policy rooted in non-interference, dialogue and mutual respect, Oman has consistently worked to promote regional harmony, safeguard security and support sustainable economic cooperation.
This balanced and principled approach has earned widespread international recognition. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who was recently conferred the Oman Civil Order (First Class) by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, has repeatedly praised Oman’s extraordinary partnership with the United Nations. He described Oman as a 'peace builder' in the region, a 'voice of wisdom' and an 'indispensable partner' respected by all sides.
Guterres noted that Oman’s credibility stems from its ability to engage constructively with regional and global powers alike, acting as an honest broker in times of crisis. He highlighted Muscat’s role in de-escalation efforts, its unwavering support for UN-led initiatives and its unique capacity to create conditions for dialogue that lead to lasting peace agreements.
Oman’s diplomatic footprint has been particularly visible in Yemen, where it has played a key humanitarian and mediation role. The Sultanate of Oman recently hosted critical negotiations in Muscat that culminated in an agreement for the exchange of prisoners. United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen Hans Grundberg expressed his gratitude to Oman for facilitating the talks, underscoring the agreement’s profound humanitarian significance. He lauded Muscat’s quiet diplomacy and its commitment to alleviating human suffering.
The agreement, welcomed by all parties, reflected close cooperation between Oman, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Office of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It is hoped that this breakthrough will pave the way for addressing remaining humanitarian and political issues in Yemen and contribute to broader confidence-building measures.

Beyond Yemen, Oman continues to play an active role in strengthening regional security, particularly within the framework of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The communiqué of the 46th session of the GCC Supreme Council, held in Manama, commended Oman’s pivotal diplomatic efforts, including its role in securing a ceasefire between the United States and Ansar Allah. The Council also hailed Oman’s contribution to safeguarding international maritime navigation and facilitating the release of detained crew members from commercial vessels.
Maritime security remains a strategic priority for Oman, given its geographic location and reliance on secure sea lanes for trade and energy flows. The GCC Supreme Council’s final statement stressed the importance of protecting vital maritime routes and responding firmly to threats against commercial shipping and regional stability — an area where Oman’s mediation has proven effective and credible.
At the humanitarian level, Oman has continued its efforts to protect civilians and foreign nationals affected by regional conflicts. Recently, Oman facilitated the safe return of 11 crew members of the vessel Eternity C from Yemen. The Filipino and Indian nationals were transported from Sana’a to Muscat aboard a Royal Air Force of Oman aircraft ahead of their repatriation, reinforcing Oman’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian diplomacy.
Oman’s foreign policy extends beyond conflict mediation to people-centric initiatives that strengthen international engagement. The Foreign Ministry recently announced the implementation of a mutual visa exemption agreement with Türkiye. Under the agreement, Omani citizens may enter Türkiye without a prior tourist visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, while Turkish citizens can visit Oman visa-free for up to 30 consecutive days.
Similarly, the Republic of the Philippines has been added to Oman’s list of countries exempt from short-visit visa requirements, increasing the total number of exempt countries to more than 100 worldwide. This move reflects Muscat’s desire to expand bilateral relations beyond traditional labour cooperation into areas such as investment, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
High-level bilateral engagements have further strengthened Oman’s regional and international partnerships. At the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an official visit to Oman in December, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The visit followed His Majesty’s State Visit to India in December 2023 and underscored the depth and continuity of ties between Muscat and New Delhi.
Oman has also maintained its role as a traditional mediator between Iran and the United States. Speaking at the Manama Dialogue in Bahrain, the Foreign Minister called for the resumption of suspended nuclear negotiations, reaffirming Oman’s readiness to facilitate dialogue aimed at reducing tensions and promoting regional stability.
In addition, Oman welcomed the agreement on the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza, stressing the need for sustained regional and international efforts to stabilise the truce, ensure humanitarian access and work towards a just and comprehensive political solution that guarantees the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.
Through quiet diplomacy, humanitarian engagement and principled neutrality, Oman continues to demonstrate that constructive dialogue remains a powerful tool in resolving conflicts. Its role as a peace builder and voice of wisdom remains central to its foreign policy — and increasingly vital to the region’s future.