BRICS, Oman talks reveal how Gulf states are preparing for Iran’s next phase - analysis

The Iran conflict appears to be moving into a new phase as key meetings take place in India and Oman. These gatherings demonstrate how Gulf countries are anticipating what may happen next, while Saudi Arabia faces pressure from Iranian-backed groups in Iraq and Yemen. Oman is also preparing to host a meeting between Gulf states and Iran on Monday.

The BRICS meeting in India is particularly significant, as it brings together Russia, China, India, Brazil, and South Africa – a non-Western economic bloc. Iran and the UAE are present at this meeting, which is important given the ongoing Iran conflict. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, met with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian during the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit in New Delhi.

The meeting's importance is underscored by reports of discussions between Iran and the UAE on regional and international issues of mutual interest. These discussions focus on promoting calm, de-escalation, and stability in the region, as well as enhancing prospects for peace and development for its peoples. India, which is taking a leadership role in BRICS during its presidency of the bloc, is emphasizing "Building resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability."

Meanwhile, the situation in the Gulf is growing more complex. Saudi Arabia has halted its East-West Pipeline due to security concerns, and the region is bracing for further pressure on Riyadh. The White House is seeking a resolution to the conflict and has hinted that it will not launch attacks on Houthi militias in Yemen.

Oman is also preparing to host a meeting between Gulf states and Iran on Monday. Oman's amicable relationship with Tehran and its willingness to discuss the Strait of Hormuz make it an ideal location for such a meeting. The US has even threatened Oman, given its positive stance towards Iran.

It is worth noting a potential trend between the BRICS summit and the Oman meeting. Both events aim to address the Iran conflict and promote regional stability. BRICS emphasized its concern over the escalation of tensions in the Middle East/West Asia, while the planned Oman meeting will discuss issues including the Strait of Hormuz and establish a joint Iran-Oman shipping route through the waterway.

This suggests that the Gulf countries are actively seeking ways to mitigate the impact of the Iran conflict and foster cooperation in the region.