There are moments in life when gratitude transcends words, especially during times of uncertainty and crisis. It is only natural for people to express deep appreciation for the kindness and support they receive—whether from individuals or institutions—particularly when they find themselves in distressing or unfamiliar situations.
One such moment was experienced recently by a group of Omani citizens who had traveled to the Islamic Republic of Iran for various purposes, including religious pilgrimages, medical treatment, tourism, and leisure. Their journeys, however, were disrupted by the sudden escalation in military tensions between the Zionist entity and Iran, resulting in the outbreak of hostilities and the closure of Iranian airspace.
In the face of this volatile situation, the swift and effective response of Oman’s authorities provided a lifeline to those affected. This message is a heartfelt expression of gratitude to all government entities and individuals who played a role in ensuring the safe return of these citizens. Particular thanks are due to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Omani Embassy in Tehran for their prompt coordination and unwavering commitment.
heir efforts were crucial in securing basic necessities such as accommodation, food, and medical care for stranded citizens until they were safely repatriated.
The professionalism and humanity displayed by officials working in a challenging environment, surrounded by uncertainty and danger, speak volumes about their dedication and sense of national duty.
Many returning citizens took to social media to express their gratitude publicly, sharing messages of thanks that reflected not only their relief but also their pride in the efficiency and compassion of the Omani government.
At the heart of this national effort was the personal attention of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, whose directives ensured that the issue of stranded citizens was handled with the urgency and seriousness it deserved. His Majesty’s guidance mobilized the necessary resources and diplomatic channels to bring Omanis home safely. Given the closure of Iranian airspace and the complex regional dynamics, the operation required meticulous planning. Citizens were first transported overland to Turkmenistan, near the Iranian city of Mashhad, and from there flown by Oman Air to Cairo for refueling before arriving at Muscat International Airport. These extraordinary arrangements were made to ensure safety and avoid escalation risks in an active conflict zone.
Throughout the crisis, Omani families endured anxiety and fear. Yet, thanks to timely communication and the dedicated support of the authorities, they were able to remain informed about the well-being of their loved ones. The nation’s response did not stop with its own citizens—Oman also extended assistance to travelers from other GCC states and foreign nationals, enabling them to return home on Oman Air flights. Many of these individuals have since expressed their deep appreciation through written and video messages shared widely on social media platforms.
Once again, heartfelt thanks go out to all those who contributed to resolving this humanitarian challenge with such efficiency and grace. The compassion, competence, and speed with which Oman’s authorities responded have not only reassured its citizens but also demonstrated the country’s unwavering commitment to protecting its people—even amidst the specter of regional war and global uncertainty.
HAIDER AL LAWATI
The writer is a Muscat-based economic analyst who previously worked for CBO and OCCI.
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