Iran and Oman call for the establishment of an independent, stable, and inclusive government in Syria

In a joint press conference held in Tehran on Monday, Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Omani Foreign Minister Said Badr al-Busaidi addressed the media following comprehensive discussions on recent regional developments and strategies to enhance bilateral relations.

The Iranian minister announced that a consensus has been reached regarding the preservation of Syria’s territorial integrity and national unity, the respect for all ethnic and religious groups, and the establishment of an inclusive government in the country.

Iran’s stance aligns closely with Oman and numerous other nations in the region, as they collectively advocate for Syria’s sovereignty and stability.

Syria has been engulfed in turmoil as militants under the leadership of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) seized control of Damascus on December 8. This unexpected offensive marked the end of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The campaign, initiated from HTS’s stronghold in the northwest, rapidly advanced to the capital within a span of less than two weeks.

The administration of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has consistently asserted their commitment to upholding the rights of various religious and sectarian groups within Syria.

The situation remains highly volatile and precarious, with a significant risk of escalated confrontations due to rising sectarian tensions amid prevailing political instability and pressures facing minority communities.

In a statement highlighting the ongoing diplomatic engagements between Iran and Oman, Araghchi emphasized the aligned positions and continuous dialogue between the two nations concerning regional issues. He underscored the urgent necessity for a ceasefire in Gaza and stressed the importance of delivering humanitarian aid to the conflict-stricken area.

According to recent reports, the conflict that commenced on October 7, 2023, following a retaliatory move by resistance movements in the Palestinian territories, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 45,514 Palestinian lives, a majority of whom are women and children. Additionally, the hostilities have left 108,189 individuals injured since Israel initiated its military operations.

In discussions concerning the situation in Yemen, the Iranian Foreign Minister, alongside officials from Muscat, expressed strong condemnation of the coordinated attacks by the United States and Israel on Yemeni soil.

Araghchi stated a strong focus on maintaining Yemen’s unity and territorial integrity, expressing optimism about the resumption of peace talks and the prevention of any plots that might spark further conflict.

The Yemeni populace has publicly affirmed its support for Palestine in its ongoing conflict against Israeli occupation, in response to Israel’s initiation of what has been described as a genocidal campaign in Gaza.

The Yemeni Armed Forces have declared that they will persist in their assaults until Israel ceases its continuous ground and aerial operations in Gaza.

**Iran and Oman Strengthen Bilateral Relations Across Multiple Sectors: Araghchi**

During the press conference, Araghchi praised the “growing” relationship between Tehran and Muscat across multiple sectors. He also announced that the two nations’ joint economic committee is scheduled to meet in Oman next month.

He noted that the trade volume between the two nations has seen a threefold increase in the past Iranian calendar year, which concluded on March 19, compared to figures from three years prior.

Araghchi stated that trade between the two countries amounted to $2.5 billion in the previous Iranian calendar year.

Omani Foreign Minister Visits Iran, But Delivers No Message from US: Araghchi Confirms

Araghchi stated that the government of Oman has consistently demonstrated its willingness to facilitate the strengthening of Iran’s relationships with various nations. Furthermore, Oman played a clear and pivotal role in the nuclear negotiations that culminated in the 2015 nuclear agreement, formally recognized as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

He stated clearly that no communications have been exchanged during Busaidi’s ongoing visit to Tehran.

The senior Iranian diplomat underscored that Tehran intends to maintain communication with Washington via the Swiss embassy, conveying necessary messages at suitable times.

Oman Emphasizes Enhanced Cooperation with Iran, Says Busaidi

The Foreign Minister of Oman expressed optimism following productive discussions with his Iranian counterpart in Tehran, highlighting the enduring nature of the bilateral relationship. He emphasized Oman’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Iran to further mutual interests.

He reported having delivered a written message from Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said of Oman to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as part of ongoing discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.

In a recent announcement, a spokesperson revealed that Iran and Oman have reached an accord to implement new measures aimed at bolstering trade relations and improving transportation links between the two nations.

The Omani minister stated that, akin to Iran, Oman advocates for a policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining Syria’s sovereignty and territorial cohesion, while also assisting the nation in fulfilling its role on the global stage.