Iran-Gulf talks shelved as Oman says conditions not right

Oman has postponed talks between Iran and Gulf states due to conditions not being deemed suitable for a constructive dialogue aimed at achieving lasting understandings that would bolster regional security and stability. The meeting, initially scheduled for Monday in Oman's Salalah city, was delayed following a request from some regional countries and a joint decision by Oman and Iran.

Iran's director general for Gulf affairs, Mohammad Ali Bak, confirmed the postponement at the request of some regional countries and by a joint decision by Oman and Iran. Iran pledged to coordinate closely with Oman on a suitable date for the meeting. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi stated the postponement was made in the interests of consensus, though he did not specify which countries had sought the delay.

The meeting was set to discuss an Iran-Oman framework for managing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been heavily disrupted since the US and Israel launched an offensive against Iran in February. Disagreements over the framework, which includes a temporary navigational corridor and plans to clear mines, have prevented consensus among Gulf Co-operation Council states, including Saudi Arabia's objections to proposed amendments to the Iran-Oman agreement.