How the Sultanate of Oman, the undisputed mediator in the Iran-US negotiations, angered Trump

The Sultanate of Oman, long regarded as an impartial mediator in negotiations between Iran and the United States, has found itself at the center of controversy following recent developments that have drawn sharp criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump. This once-unquestioned role as a bridge between two nations now stands under scrutiny after the Trump administration reportedly distanced itself from Oman's involvement in ongoing diplomatic talks. The situation escalated when Trump publicly criticized Oman’s perceived closeness to Iran, suggesting that the country had become too aligned with Tehran, which he viewed as a threat to American interests in the region.

Oman, often referred to as "Switzerland of the Middle East" due to its neutrality, has historically played a crucial role in regional diplomacy. Located in the Gulf, sharing the Strait of Hormuz with Iran, the country has been instrumental in facilitating dialogue, particularly during the 2015 nuclear deal involving Iran. However, the U.S. withdrawal from this agreement three years later marked a turning point in relations. When Trump announced a breakthrough in negotiations aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East, he did not mention Oman among the countries involved, despite its active participation in the discussions. This omission was seen as a signal of shifting dynamics in how the U.S. views Oman's role in the region.

According to analysts, Oman's traditional strategy has revolved around maintaining open communication channels with all parties—Tehran, Washington, and Gulf states alike. However, the current administration appears less tolerant of a mediator who maintains close ties with Iran, especially when that relationship involves advocating for Iran's stance on issues such as missile strikes within its territory and condemning U.S. airstrikes against Iran as unlawful. Analysts suggest that the change lies in the U.S.'s growing intolerance towards mediators who maintain a balanced approach, even if it includes engagement with Iran.

Oman has long cultivated a policy of neutrality, allowing it to serve as a mediator in various conflicts and disputes over the years. It was the first Gulf state to host an Israeli leader in 1994 and has facilitated talks between Houthi rebels, supported by Iran, and Saudi Arabia, which backs the Yemeni government. Following its role in the 2015 nuclear deal, Oman continued to act as a mediator in multiple rounds of negotiations with Iran under Trump's presidency. These efforts were tested repeatedly by U.S. military actions against Iran, notably in June 2025 and late February of last year.

In response to these tensions, Oman's foreign minister, Saeed bin Tariq Al-Mashari, called on the U.S. to halt its attacks, arguing that Iran had little choice but to retaliate. His comments were published in March in *The Economist*, highlighting the delicate balance Oman tries to maintain. Meanwhile, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq congratulated the new Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Mohammad Khamenei, following the death of his predecessor, Ali Khamenei, during an Israeli-American attack. This gesture underscored Oman's continued engagement with Iran, even amid rising tensions.

As the conflict intensified, Pakistan emerged as a leading force in mediation, backed by Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. Qatar also began playing a more significant role in the process. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his Omani counterpart, Saeed bin Tariq Al-Mashari, in Muscat before the latest round of Iran-U.S. negotiations, signaling the ongoing importance of Oman in facilitating dialogue.

Recent statements from high-ranking officials in the Trump administration have further strained relations with Oman. A senior White House official told reporters that the U.S. had effectively removed Oman from the negotiation process, citing concerns about the country's apparent bias, likening them almost to employees of Iran. This sentiment was echoed earlier when Trump threatened to "crush" Oman if it attempted to control the Strait of Hormuz alongside Iran. Additionally, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Boren hinted at potential sanctions against Muscat should the country implement a system of tolls for maritime traffic with Iran. He later clarified that the ambassador of Oman had not yet taken such steps, but the warning remained clear.

These developments highlight the complex interplay of regional politics and international diplomacy. As the U.S. continues to reassess its strategic partnerships in the Middle East, the role of neutral intermediaries like Oman remains both vital and precarious. With tensions between major powers escalating, the need for effective mediation has never been greater, yet the willingness of all parties to engage in such processes is increasingly uncertain. What remains to be seen is whether Oman can continue to play its traditional role without facing severe consequences from either side.