Why Oman Remained Out Of Iran's Retaliatory Strikes In The Gulf

Last Updated:February 28, 2026, 20:22 IST

Oman, often called the 'Switzerland of the Middle East,' has maintained a neutral foreign policy and avoided taking a strong anti-Iran stance despite being part of the GCC.

As tensions between Israel and Iran escalated into a wider conflict across the Middle East, several Gulf countries reported missile strikes and air defence activity. Sirens were heard in cities such as Dubai and Doha as Iran launched retaliatory attacks in the region. However, one Gulf nation appeared to remain largely untouched by the strikes — Oman.

Experts say Oman’s unique relationship with Iran, built over decades through diplomacy, strategic cooperation and neutrality, explains why the country was not targeted.

A Relationship Built Over Decades

The ties between Iran and Oman date back to the early 1970s. During the Dhofar rebellion in Oman, the Shah of Iran sent thousands of troops to support Sultan Qaboos bin Said in defeating Marxist insurgents. That cooperation laid the foundation for a long-standing security partnership between Muscat and Tehran.

Even after the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran, when many Gulf monarchies grew wary of the new Iranian regime, Oman maintained its diplomatic engagement with Tehran. Over time, this created a relationship based on mutual trust and respect.

Oman’s Neutral Diplomacy

Oman is often described as the “Switzerland of the Middle East" because of its balanced foreign policy. Although it is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Muscat has historically avoided taking a hard anti-Iran stance like some of its neighbours.

The country prefers a non-interventionist approach and maintains ties with both Western nations and Iran. This diplomatic balance has allowed Oman to remain neutral during many regional conflicts.

A Key Mediator Between Iran And The West

Oman has repeatedly played the role of a quiet mediator in regional tensions. It hosted secret negotiations between Iran and the United States that helped pave the way for the 2015 nuclear deal.

Even during periods of high tension, Muscat has kept communication channels open between Tehran and Washington. This role as a diplomatic bridge makes Oman valuable to Iran.

Strategic And Economic Interests

Geography also plays an important role in the relationship. Oman and Iran jointly oversee the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes. Stability in this area is critical for both countries, encouraging cooperation on maritime security.

Economic links further strengthen the relationship. Plans such as a proposed Iran-Oman gas pipeline aim to turn Oman into a hub for Iranian gas exports, giving Iran an important route to global markets despite sanctions. Trade, tourism and shipping ties also support the partnership.

Why Oman Was Not Targeted

Iran’s tensions with other Gulf states have usually involved proxy groups, maritime incidents or political pressure rather than direct warfare. Several Gulf countries host large US military bases and support Iran’s regional rivals, which has contributed to friction.

Oman, however, has largely stayed out of these rivalries. Its carefully balanced diplomacy and neutral stance have helped it avoid becoming a target during regional confrontations.

A Longstanding Policy Of Neutrality

Oman’s foreign policy has consistently focused on dialogue and peaceful coexistence. Former ruler Sultan Qaboos bin Said once described the country’s approach by saying Oman sides with “rightness, justice, friendship and peace" while promoting cooperation among nations.

For decades, this policy of neutrality has allowed Oman to maintain stable relations across rival blocs — a strategy that appears to have protected it even during the latest tensions in the Gulf.

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