AMMAN — The Omani Minister of Foreign Affairs, Badr bin
Hamad bin Hamoud Al Busaidi, has stated that the establishment of a Palestinian
state will be a prerequisite for the Sultanate of Oman to establish full
relations with Israel. Busaidi emphasized that Oman's neutrality should be seen
as positive, proactive, and constructive.
اضافة اعلان
Currently, Oman and Israel maintain quiet and unofficial
relations. However, there have been positive signs indicating a potential
improvement in their relations, Amad News reported.
Notably, in October 2018, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
visited Muscat and met with the late Sultan Qaboos, marking the first visit by
an Israeli leader in two decades. Additionally, in February, Oman followed
Saudi Arabia's lead by opening its airspace to all airlines, including Israel.
Not at the expense of ignoring or closing the door on
Palestinians
Busaidi made it clear that while Oman is open to
establishing a relationship with Israel, it will not do so at the expense of
ignoring or closing the door on the Palestinians. He stressed the importance of
a comprehensive agreement that includes committing to the relationship and
recognizing the state of Palestine as part of any full relationship with
Israel.
Previously, it was believed that Oman would be among the
next Gulf states to normalize relations with Israel. Oman has commended
Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Morocco for joining the Abraham Accords.
Shortly after the UAE-Israeli deal was announced in August 2020, Omani Foreign
Minister Yusuf bin Alawi spoke with his Israeli counterpart, emphasizing the
need to strengthen relations.
However, Israel's regional acceptance has faced obstacles
due to the formation of a right-wing coalition government led by Prime Minister
Netanyahu, whose members hold hardline views against the Palestinians. Busaidi
acknowledged that Oman is ready to assist in the Palestinian-Israeli peace
process when the Israeli camp shows the necessary mood and readiness, which is
currently lacking.
The fate of Syria
In another development, it has been revealed that the
Sultanate of Oman has played a role in mediating between the US and Syria
regarding the fate of the missing American journalist Austin Tice. Busaidi
confirmed that there have been exchange messages between the two parties. While
he couldn't confirm progress towards finding a resolution, he expressed hope
that the process would continue.
Moreover, the Sultanate of Oman expressed its aspiration to
witness Syria fully reintegrated into the international community. Busaidi
noted that there are specific questions and aspects that need to be addressed.
Oman is committed to fostering balanced relationships and considers India,
China, and Russia as equal friends in this regard.
As Oman navigates its foreign policy, the country remains
committed to pursuing constructive engagement and contributing to regional
stability and peace.
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