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Policy Brief

The View from Muscat: Oman’s Quest for Neutrality amid War in the Middle East

Oman’s long-standing neutrality faces a new geopolitical environment, as the Iran War reshapes Gulf power dynamics, thereby testing Muscat’s ability to sustain its role as a credible and trusted mediator.

8-minute read
05 April 2026
By Corina Lozovan
Dusk over Muscat, Oman’s capital, where mountains, sea, and city converge. Positioned on the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula with access to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea, this geography anchors Muscat’s quiet but pivotal role in regional diplomacy and mediation.
Dusk over Muscat, Oman’s capital, where mountains, sea, and city converge. Positioned on the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula with access to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea, this geography anchors Muscat’s quiet but pivotal role in regional diplomacy and mediation.
8-minute read
Oman faces a complex test as the Iran war challenges its role as a regional mediator. The potential for spillover and evolving GCC security dynamics requires Muscat to navigate a more demanding diplomatic environment. In this context, Oman continues to leverage its adaptive neutrality to support efforts to stabilize the Strait of Hormuz and contribute to de-escalating the war in order to restore dialogue and regional peace.

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