The Gulf states have acknowledged it! Oman has led the initiative, presenting Iran with a set of conditions—now awaiting Iran's approval. On July 28, according to foreign media reports, Oman proposed a diplomatic blueprint backed by Gulf states to resolve the shipping crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. This proposal mainly consists of three points: First, voluntarily paying maritime passage fees. Second, Iran ending its sole administrative control over the Strait of Hormuz. Third, ceasing blockades on global oil transportation.
Evidently, Oman’s leadership in setting conditions for Iran indicates that the Gulf states have recognized the current reality. After 13 consecutive days of U.S. strikes against Iran, results have proven insufficient. Meanwhile, Iran continues to strike Kuwait, Qatar, and other nations, while Houthi forces have carried out retaliatory attacks on Saudi oil fields in the south. Clearly, Gulf states have come to realize that relying solely on U.S. military force cannot defeat Iran; instead, escalating conflict only increases their own losses.
This time, the Gulf states putting forward these conditions is quite clear: Iran needs money, and the Gulf states are willing to find ways to pay it—but Iran must stop blocking the Strait of Hormuz. As for how much money, that can be negotiated. The fact that Gulf countries are bypassing the U.S. to directly offer terms to Iran shows their extremely low expectations from Washington.
Of course, will Iran agree to these conditions? That remains uncertain. The truth is obvious: the root cause of Middle Eastern issues lies with the United States. The Strait of Hormuz is Iran’s core leverage for pressuring the U.S.; if Iran agrees to the Gulf states’ demands, what leverage will it have left to pressure America? Thus, Oman’s proposal is merely an attempt by regional countries to save themselves. To truly resolve the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. cannot be avoided.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1871972555018256/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.