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US, Iran Wrap Up 4th Round Of High-Stakes Nuclear Talks In Oman Ahead Of Trump’s Visit

May 11, 2025, 9:57 pm

United States and Iran wrapped up a fourth round of nuclear talks on Sunday in Muscat, Oman, before President Donald Trump is due to visit the Middle East. Oman-facilitated three-hour talks come during increased regional tension and threats of military action in case no deal is achieved.

Iranian Foreign Ministry official Esmail Baghaei characterized the negotiations as “useful but hard,” while an American official mentioned that there was both direct and indirect contact, with a consensus to proceed with technical aspects. Iranian state media covered the negotiations but highlighted they were held indirectly presumably because of internal political sensitivities.

The talks are intended to slow Iran’s nuclear progress in return for the relaxation of US sanctions. Tehran remains adamant about its right to enrich uranium, a position reaffirmed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqhchi, who described enrichment as a national right that is “absolutely non-negotiable.”

But US envoy Steve Witkoff has been more confrontational, insisting Iran needs to eliminate its entire enrichment programme, including Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan facilities.

Since Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018, Iran has increased its uranium enrichment to 60% purity short of weapons-grade while tensions in the region, including Israeli threats and Iranian support for Hamas, have added to the complexity.

Domestically, Iran suffers from economic and political pressure with the rial weakly rebounding in light of renewed negotiations. Trump’s two-month ultimatum for a deal, conveyed to Iran’s Supreme Leader by a UAE diplomat, runs out Monday as Trump embarks on a visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.

With existing deep differences and time and patience wearing thin, both sides are increasingly under pressure to achieve a breakthrough and avoid a potential war in an already unstable region.

Oman’s Sultan To Meet Putin In Moscow Amid Ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Talks

April 19, 2025, 4:52 pm

Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said is set to visit Moscow on Monday, on the same day as a new round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran. The diplomatic trip will have the Sultan meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, according to the Kremlin.

The Sultan’s visit coincides with the current US-Iran nuclear talks in Rome, which started on Saturday. The talks are intended to resolve the long-standing conflict over Iran’s nuclear program, a key issue that has witnessed diplomatic tension for decades. The talks come under the shadow of the 2018 withdrawal by former US President Donald Trump from the historic nuclear deal and his threat of military action.

Prior to the negotiations in Rome, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi sat down with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Moscow. After their talks, Lavrov signaled Russia’s willingness to help and facilitate the negotiations between Iran and the US, underlining Moscow’s role as a supporter.

The visit of the Sultan to Moscow will probably touch on a broad agenda. Official announcements by the Omani state news agency and the Kremlin have assured that Sultan Haitham’s talks with President Putin will touch on regional and international issues, though details are thin. Moreover, the two leaders will probably discuss deepening economic and trade ties between Oman and Russia.

Moscow has traditionally had a major part to play in Iran’s nuclear talks, particularly as a UN Security Council permanent member and as one of the signatories to the initial nuclear agreement.

US, Iran Revive Nuclear Talks In Rare Oman Meet, Call It ‘Productive’, Set Next Round

April 12, 2025, 11:08 pm

Tehran said on Saturday that Iran and the United States had “productive” senior-level talks in Oman to settle disagreements over Iran’s rapidly expanding nuclear programme. The talks, aided by Omani mediation, represented the most serious interaction between the two rivals since the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear agreement.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US President Donald Trump’s negotiator Steve Witkoff headed their respective delegations. While the meeting was technically indirect, the two exchanged a short face-to-face discussion during the Muscat session, according to reports. Araghchi said both sides were on the verge of a “basis for negotiations” and hoped progress would be made in the next round scheduled for next Saturday.

I think we are quite close to having a framework for serious talks,” Araghchi said on Iranian state TV. “The American side also indicated that an agreement can be reached but it will depend on serious effort from both sides.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry stated that the talks were held in an “constructive and respectful” atmosphere. The Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi served as the facilitator, passing messages between the delegations, who were seated in different halls.

The negotiations follow increasing tensions, with President Trump warning of the use of military force if there is no agreement. The US is demanding that Iran stop its nuclear program, while Iran wants relief from debilitating sanctions that have devastated its economy. Tehran has also been shaken by the effects of Israeli military strikes against its regional allies, Hezbollah and Hamas.

This is the most senior level of contact between Tehran and Washington since Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear agreement in his first term. Araghchi underscored that both parties are keen on avoiding long and meaningless talks.

“Our intention is clear,” he said. “We do not seek endless negotiations. If both parties are sincere, we can make significant progress.”

Iranian FM Araghchi Meets Omani Officials Before Key Nuclear Talks with US

April 12, 2025, 1:55 pm

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Oman on Saturday for nuclear negotiations with the US, holding meetings with Omani officials before pivotal talks.

These negotiations, to be headed by US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, will center on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, towards a fresh agreement following President Donald Trump pulling out of the 2015 agreement in 2018.The talks, to be held behind closed doors in Muscat, are seen as the highest-level between Iran and the US since the collapse of the initial accord.

Before the talks, Trump stated, “I want Iran to be a wonderful, great, happy country. But they can’t have a nuclear weapon.” Adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Shamkhani, made it clear that Iran desires ‘a real and fair agreement’, making “important and implementable proposals.” He further added that if Washington is willing to display goodwill, the way ahead would be ‘smooth’.

The talks will be led by Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi. Indirect talks will probably begin later in the day.

While Trump has threatened ‘military action’ unless an agreement is reached, Tehran has promised to drive out UN nuclear inspectors, which Washington considers ‘an escalation’. The 2015 nuclear deal tried to prevent Iran from making an atomic bomb but allow a civilian nuclear program.

US-Iran to Hold ‘Indirect Talks’ After 6 Years — Can This Stop the Next Big War? | TDG Explainer

April 9, 2025, 12:25 pm

The US-Iran relationship is once again in the spotlight as both countries prepare for indirect talks in Oman this week—their first serious diplomatic engagement since President Donald Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018. Tensions have only escalated since then, with Washington alarmed over Iran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program, and Tehran demanding sanctions relief and restored trust. These indirect negotiations mark a critical moment in US-Iran ties and could be the last chance to prevent another full-blown crisis in the Middle East.

Why These Talks Matter?

The US wants Iran to cut back on uranium enrichment. Iran is now enriching uranium to 60% purity. That’s almost weapons-grade, but Iran insists it will never use it to make a bomb. Nevertheless, the stockpile grew quickly. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reports Iran now has more than 8,000 kg of enriched uranium—way over the 300 kg limit of the 2015 agreement.

The backdoor format of the negotiations is indicative of just how tense things have become. The US maintains it is willing to have direct talks. Iran demands the use of intermediaries, such as Oman. It’s a reflection of how little trust is left.

Trump’s Return Changes the Game

Trump has come back to the White House and taking a hard-line approach. He’s reimposed sanctions and also threatened military strikes. He went so far as to send Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a warning letter of probable strikes if there are no breakthroughs in the talks.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ignored the letter. He threatened to hit back very hard if attacked. Iranian officials have repeated this, stating that Iran has means to protect itself and could re-evaluate its nuclear policy if threatened.

Iran’s Position: No Direct Talks, No Trust

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian explained that they don’t shun negotiations but require evidence the US can deliver on promises. Tehran accuses Washington of violating previous agreements. Iran’s Foreign Ministry labeled Trump’s threats a “shocking affront to peace.”

Iranian media indicate the nation has brought missiles closer to US targets. In turn, the US has sent B-2 bombers to Diego Garcia, a base in striking distance of Iran. Both nations are on high alert.

A Threat of Regional Fallout

This isn’t about two nations. Iran’s nuclear ascension has the potential to set off a Middle East arms race. Israel already is nuclear-armed. Saudi Arabia has threatened that it will follow suit if Iran comes too close to a nuclear bomb.

Regional actors such as Turkey and Egypt could follow. That would destabilize the global non-proliferation regime. The Middle East is unstable enough with wars in Gaza, Syria, and Yemen. Mix in nuclear threats, and you have an explosive mix.

How We Got Here: A Timeline of Distrust

In 2015, Iran agreed to a nuclear accord with world powers. It restrained its nuclear activities in return for sanctions relief. Trump withdrew from the agreement in 2018, denouncing it as weak. He reinstated stringent sanctions. Iran retaliated by slowly building up breaches in the deal.

Trump’s “maximum pressure” effort emphasized Iran’s economy but failed to halt uranium enrichment. Diplomacy plateaued. Today, with Trump back in office, both nations are reverting to positions of yesteryears—with fresh haste.

The Shadow of 1979 Still Lingers

The bad blood dates back decades. In 1979, Iran’s Islamic Revolution toppled the pro-US Shah. Later that year, Iranian students stormed the US Embassy, beginning the 444-day hostage crisis. Diplomatic relations were severed.

Since then, relations have see-sawed between hostility and limited engagement. The nuclear deal was a peak. Trump’s 2018 withdrawal sent it all tumbling down.

What’s Next: Diplomacy or Disaster?

The negotiations in Oman could soothe tensions—or widen the gap. Without breakthroughs, the threat of war increases. Israel might not wait for diplomatic efforts if it perceives a nuclear Iran as a threat to its survival. The US would then be pulled in.

Trump’s advisors are convinced aggressive tactics will get Iran to the negotiating table. Iran believes only pressure has shifted—but not the results. Both sides desire security but disagree on how to secure it.

Can This Stop the Next Big War?

This phase of talks is more than diplomacy — it’s an experiment in whether quiet diplomacy can avert a loud war. With Israel, Saudi Arabia, and even the US considering military action if Iran passes certain nuclear red lines, the margin for miscalculation is dwindling rapidly. If diplomacy again fails, a regional war could break out — one that engages world powers, upsets oil markets, and further destabilizes the Middle East. These negotiations in Oman might be the final opportunity to ratchet down tensions before someone flips a switch.

Iran vs US: How Rejecting Direct Talks Could Shape the Future?

April 6, 2025, 5:16 pm

Iran has strongly rejected an ultimatum by US President Donald Trump for immediate talks on its nuclear policy. Iran would rather have indirect talks, probably via Oman, a respected facilitator. The more tensions escalate, the US warns of war. In turn, Tehran threatens countries around it that cooperating with a US attack would be severe. With neither side budging, the standoff could destabilize the region.

Indirect Negotiations: Testing Washington’s Commitment

Iran is committed to seeking out indirect negotiations in order to measure the seriousness of the US about a diplomatic resolution. Tehran sees the negotiations as an opportunity to gauge US intentions and determine whether Washington is serious about finding a peaceful solution or not. Although Iran recognizes that indirect negotiations have issues, it feels they are the best way to preempt war. Tehran views these negotiations as essential to lowering tensions and resolving the situation peacefully. Iran is willing to start the process if the US demonstrates a sincere intent to have productive, non-violent talks.

Regional Tensions: Iran’s Warnings to Neighbors

The dynamics have intensified. Iran has threatened its neighbors—Iraq, Kuwait, UAE, Qatar, Turkey, and Bahrain—that backing U.S. military intervention or conceding airspace use will amount to hostility. Tehran has increased military alertness and stands ready to strike if the need arises. This has set off alarm in the Gulf, where pro-US Arab monarchies are caught in an uneasy tightrope between their alignment with Washington and fear of offending Tehran.

Iran is also worried that Israel might attack its nuclear plants unilaterally, further fueling tensions. While Iran is enriching uranium to levels close to being weapons-grade, diplomacy is more than ever needed. The two sides recognize the need for a diplomatic solution, but time is of the essence. With rising tensions, the danger of military conflict increases.

S Jaishankar’s Talks With Omani Diplomat Highlight Growing India-Gulf Cooperation

December 4, 2024, 12:08 pm

India and Oman’s enduring and robust relations have been reaffirmed and discussed by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar with Khalifa Alharthy, the Under Secretary for Political Affairs of Oman. Recalling the historical and strategic ties of the two nations, while posting on X (earlier Twitter), Jaishankar shared insights regarding expanding cooperation in key sectors including trade, investments, technology, and space.

He wrote, “Great to receive Khalifa Alharthy, Under Secretary for Political Affairs of Oman today. Noted our wide-ranging cooperation and new opportunities in trade, investments, technology, and space.”

Oman: A Strategic Partner in India’s Gulf Policy

India has long counted Oman as a key ally of its foreign policy in the Gulf region. Oman’s importance is underscored by its active engagement in the most important regional organisations, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Arab League, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).

The bilateral relationship between the two countries has a history of over 5,000 years, with formal diplomatic relations established in 1955. The partnership was upgraded to a Strategic Partnership in 2008, marking the increasing political and economic engagement.

Deepening Cooperation Across Sectors

The India-Oman relationship has changed with time, moving beyond the traditional realm of diplomacy to the emerging sectors of space, cybersecurity, and rare earth minerals. Oman has played a significant role in India’s West Asia policy since it is one of the oldest and most trusted regional partners of India. The exchanges at this level were complemented by the Indian leadership’s visits: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to India in 2018 and the visit of the National Security Adviser of India Ajit Doval in June 2023.

Oman’s Involvement in India’s G20 Presidency

As a gesture of goodwill and strategic cooperation, Oman was invited as a guest country during India’s G20 Presidency in 2023. The invitation reflects the strength of the partnership and mutual interest of both nations in promoting collaborative growth.

Indian Community in Oman

The vibrant Indian expatriate community in Oman, with about 684,771 members, plays a very important role in nurturing bilateral relations. This community of professionals, entrepreneurs, and families has been instrumental in fostering strong people-to-people connections. Many of them have deep roots in Oman, with some families having lived in the country for over 150 years.

This apart, the country has 21 Indian schools and more than 40,000 students as well as a number of religious and cultural institutions such as temples, churches, and gurudwaras. The institutions help preserve Indian culture as well as promote social welfare.

The Future of India-Oman Relations

The India-Oman relation, based on shared values and an enduring sense of cooperation, remains strong and thriving in many areas. The growing scope in all these areas, like technology, space, and investments, reflects the increasing possibility of the future. Both the nations intend to further strengthen their bilateral ties and engage in novel areas of cooperation, so their partnership stands as an important pillar for India’s West Asia policy.

India and Oman share a relationship of mutual respect and have long historical ties, henceforth sharing a common vision. Both countries are well-equipped in strengthening their collaboration with stronger people-to-people connections as well as expanding opportunities within emerging sectors.

Oman Mass Shooting: Firing Ongoing On Third Day, 1 Indian Dead

July 17, 2024, 4:57 pm

Entering the third day, the firing continues to take place at the shia mosque in the Middle Eastern country Oman’s capital Muscat.

So far, the casualties of the attack now stand at 30, and among 30, one Indian has lost its life.

Meanwhile, around 800 victims are trapped inside mosque, as establishment tries to handle the situation.

As per the police, all mandatory security measures and procedures have been constituted to deal with the situation.

Currently, the establishment continues to collect evidence and hold probe to unearth circumstances, in connection with the incident.

What Exactly Happened?

On Late Monday evening, a shooting incident took place near mosque in the vicinity of Al-Wadi Al-Kabeer area.

The attack took place during the time, when shia Muslims were observing Ashura (where they mourn the death of prophet Muhammed’s grandson Hussein).

After this incident, the islamic state (ISIS) has took the responsibility for the attack. According to them, three of theirs did it.

According to Indian Embassy, one Indian national has lost its life.

Following the shooting incident reported in Muscat city on 15 July, Foreign Ministry of Sultanate of Oman has informed that one Indian national has lost his life & another is injured. Embassy offers its sincere condolences & stands ready to offer all assistance to the families.

— India in Oman (Embassy of India, Muscat) (@Indemb_Muscat) July 16, 2024

Besides Indian, Pakistan has also announced, that around five of their nationals have lost their lives in this attack. The condemned the shooting on Imam Ali Mosque as a ‘terrorist attack.’

As per Al Bawaba, the Imam Ali Mosque, which is situated in the neighbourhood of Wadi Al Kabir of Mutrah, Muscat, Oman is place, where shooting happened. That time, the Pakistani community was also there.

Oman: One Indian Killed In Muscat’s Shia Mosque Shooting

July 16, 2024, 11:43 pm

In the capital of Oman, Muscat, one Indian lost its life due mass shooting, that occurred near Shia Mosque, killing six people. Announced Indian Embassy.

As per officials, six people have lost their lives and 30 have been injured. Meanwhile, Indian embassy has given its condolences to the family and has promised to assistance to deceased family.

Following the shooting incident reported in Muscat city on 15 July, Foreign Ministry of Sultanate of Oman has informed that one Indian national has lost his life & another is injured. Embassy offers its sincere condolences & stands ready to offer all assistance to the families.

— India in Oman (Embassy of India, Muscat) (@Indemb_Muscat) July 16, 2024

Moreover, Pakistani embassy has denounced the shooting, as 4 Pakistanis too have lost their lives. It has announced, that it is currently engaging with Omani establishment to facilitate the return of the mortal remains of deceased citizens.

“Pakistan strongly condemns the dastardly terrorist attack on Imam Bargah Ali bin Abu Talib in Wadi Kabir in Muscat, Oman that resulted in multiple casualties including two deaths of Pakistani nationals. pic.twitter.com/rcRpsuX0p6

— Pakistan Embassy Oman (@PakinOman) July 16, 2024

Furthermore, the Pakistani establishment later announced, that around 30 of its people are undergoing treatment at the hospital.

Meanwhile, the royal Oman police have promptly responded to this unfortunate incident. As for gunmen, they have been killed. So far, the police have completed the procedure of dealing with shooting.

India Poised to Finalize FTA with Oman in Modi’s Third Term’s First 100 Days

June 12, 2024, 12:01 pm

India is poised to finalize a free trade agreement (FTA) with Oman within the first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term. The Prime Minister emphasized the potential for enhanced strategic ties during a review meeting chaired by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

Negotiations between India and Oman on the FTA were nearing completion during Modi’s previous term. However, the enforcement of the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha polls halted the process in March. Officials familiar with the matter revealed that the deal is nearing conclusion, pending formal approval from both sides.

Just before the elections, India inked an FTA with four European nations, pledging significant investment in India to generate direct employment opportunities. Officials confirmed the preparation of necessary draft documents for the FTA with Oman, describing it as an ongoing process. Oman’s ruler also congratulated Prime Minister Modi on his third term, emphasizing the enduring strategic relationship between the two nations.

Once finalized, the FTA with Oman will mark a significant bilateral achievement for Modi’s third term and the fourth since 2022. The agreement is expected to bolster India’s energy security, ensure affordable fertilizer supply, and attract foreign investments. Additionally, it will facilitate reduced prices for Indian exports to Oman, encompassing various commodities such as rice, tea, coffee, spices, dairy products, and machinery.

The momentum for FTA discussions heightened following a meeting between bin Tarik and Modi in December 2023. The proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was a focal point during their discussions. Both countries are committed to enhancing trade and investment ties, as evidenced by the decision to establish dedicated desks for investment promotion.

India and Oman share deep-rooted historical and strategic connections, fostering bilateral trade and investment relations since 1955. Recent data from the commerce ministry indicates significant growth in bilateral trade, reaching $12.39 billion in 2022-2023. This upward trajectory underscores the mutually beneficial nature of the partnership.

India And Oman Enhance Maritime Defense Ties With Staff Talks

June 6, 2024, 6:14 pm

India and Oman recently concluded the 6th edition of Staff Talks between the Indian Navy (IN) and Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) in New Delhi from June 4 to 5, as per the Ministry of Defence. The discussions aimed to bolster the defense ties between the two nations in maritime affairs. Cmde Jasim Mohammed Ali Al Balushi led the RNO delegation, while Cmde Manmeet Singh Khurana headed the Indian delegation.

These talks, focusing on common maritime security challenges, operational collaboration, information sharing, and more, highlight the strong bilateral relations and strategic maritime partnership between India and Oman. The visit also included interactions at IFC-IOR, Gurugram, emphasizing Oman’s significant role as one of India’s key partners in the Gulf region.

T20 World Cup 2024: Marcus Stoinis Credits IPL for His All-Round Match Winning Effort Against Oman

June 6, 2024, 4:28 pm

Marcus Stoinis attributed his stellar performance against Oman in the T20 World Cup to his experience gained during the IPL season. Stoinis, who scored 67 runs and claimed 3 wickets, played a pivotal role in Australia’s victorious start to their 2024 campaign. Drawing from his standout performances for LSG in the IPL, where he emerged as a key player, Stoinis highlighted the confidence boost he received from the tournament.

Reflecting on his match-winning century against CSK during the IPL, Stoinis emphasized that participating in the league for a decade has consistently elevated his game. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to transition from the IPL to the T20 World Cup, viewing it as a beneficial preparation.

Stoinis adapted to a different batting position in the match against Oman, coming in at No.5 when Australia faced a challenging situation. Despite the change, he remained composed, drawing on his prior experiences in various roles throughout his career. Stoinis credited his versatility and familiarity with different situations, acquired over years of playing professional cricket, for his ability to perform under pressure.

In the previous IPL season, Stoinis excelled as a No.3 batter for LSG, amassing 388 runs and claiming 4 wickets in 14 matches. His successful stint with LSG provided him with valuable experience that he utilized effectively in the T20 World Cup encounter against Oman.

T20 WC: Namibia Captain Gerhard Erasmus Wins Toss, Opts to Bowl Against Oman

June 3, 2024, 6:48 am

In the inaugural match of Group B in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Namibia faced off against Oman at the prestigious Kensington Oval. Amidst the excitement of this highly anticipated encounter, Namibia’s captain Gerhard Erasmus won the toss and elected to bowl first, setting the stage for a thrilling contest between two teams making their mark on the international cricket scene.

Namibia’s captain Gerhard Erasmus won the toss and elected to bowl first against Oman in the Group B opener of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 at the Kensington Oval.

Familiar Foes on the Grand Stage

Namibia and Oman, both making their third appearance in the World Cup within four years, meet on the grandest stage for the first time. Despite being familiar ODI opponents, their encounters in the shorter T20 format have been relatively rare.

Limited Past Encounters

Prior to a recent five-match bilateral series in Muscat in April, Namibia and Oman had only faced each other three times in T20s, all during T20 World Cup qualifiers.

Captain’s Words

Speaking at the toss, Gerhard Erasmus expressed confidence in his team’s bowling abilities, opting to take advantage of the favorable conditions. He emphasized the need for his team to showcase their skills on the field.

Oman’s captain Aqib Ilyas, on the other hand, expressed contentment with batting first on a fresh wicket. He stressed the importance of executing their plans without pressure and highlighted the fitness of his squad.

For Namibia, Michael van Lingen, Nikolaas Davin, Jan Frylinck, Gerhard Erasmus (c), Malan Kruger, JJ Smit, David Wiese, Zane Green (w), Ruben Trumpelmann, Bernard Scholtz, and Tangeni Lungameni are in the playing XI.

In Oman’s playing XI are Kashyap Prajapati, Naseem Khushi (w), Aqib Ilyas (c), Zeeshan Maqsood, Khalid Kail, Ayaan Khan, Mohammad Nadeem, Mehran Khan, Shakeel Ahmed, Kaleemullah, and Bilal Khan.

India and Oman Set to Sign Trade Deal Amidst Rising Middle East Tensions

April 27, 2024, 2:05 pm

India and Oman are set to finalize a trade agreement in the coming months, according to two Indian government officials. This move comes as India aims to bolster its relations in the Middle East amid escalating tensions that pose risks to crucial shipping routes.

One official stated to Reuters, “It will help India with a strategic partner and access to key trade routes in a volatile region.”

Despite the current annual trade between India and Oman being less than $13 billion, the partnership holds significance for India due to Oman’s position as a gateway to the vital Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit point for global oil shipments.

With recent regional conflicts, including Israel’s conflict with Hamas and Yemen’s Houthi militants’ actions in the Red Sea, India sees the trade deal as crucial for ensuring stability in the region.

The finalization of the trade agreement depends on the approval of the winning government in India’s ongoing national elections, with results expected on June 4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated to secure a rare third term.

While both Indian and Omani authorities did not respond to email queries, the officials preferred anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions.

India’s focus on bilateral deals with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member nations like Oman and the UAE comes after limited progress in negotiations with the GCC as a whole.

The proposed agreement with Oman also positions India advantageously amidst GCC negotiations with Pakistan and China, providing a competitive edge.

Oman has agreed to exempt duties on Indian exports valued at $3 billion annually, covering various sectors such as agriculture, gems and jewelry, automotive, medical devices, engineering, and textiles.

In return, India has agreed to reduce duties on certain Omani exports like petrochemicals, aluminum, and copper, while also imposing import caps on these goods, as stated by the officials.

Biblical Flood in Dubai: Climate Change Brings Heavy Rainfall

April 17, 2024, 10:56 am

Dubai, known for its arid climate and high temperatures, was thrown into disarray on Tuesday when heavy rainfall hit the United Arab Emirates (UAE), causing disruptions in air travel and leading to extensive flooding throughout the desert nation. The sudden downpour not only halted the vibrant city’s activities but also heightened awareness of climate change’s role in intensifying extreme weather phenomena in the area.

On Tuesday, heavy rainfall necessitated the diversion of numerous incoming flights at Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest hub for international passengers. The airport, which usually sees over 100 flight arrivals on a typical evening, experienced an unusual suspension of arrivals, resuming gradually after 25 minutes. Although departure flights resumed in the evening, there were significant delays and cancellations in flight operations.

Social media videos depict planes taxiing along inundated runways and vehicles partially submerged in the airport parking lot. The access roads to the airport were also flooded.

Significant infrastructure in the city, such as major shopping centers like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, experienced flooding, with ankle-deep water reported in at least one Dubai Metro station. Roads gave way, residential areas were underwater, and there were numerous reports of leaks from roofs, doors, and windows in many homes.

The storm’s effects reached beyond Dubai, affecting the whole UAE and neighboring Bahrain with widespread flooding and disruption. Schools throughout the Emirates have been shut down, and with more storms, including hail, predicted for today, authorities have prolonged remote working for government employees, reports AFP.

In Oman, the initial impact of the storms brought severe devastation, with flash floods causing the deaths of 18 individuals, children among them. Bahrain also suffered from flooding as a result of the storms.

Both Oman and the UAE, hosts of the previous year’s COP28 UN climate conference, have warned of the increased likelihood of flooding as a consequence of global warming.

Oman: Indian Navy Chief interacts with INS Trinkand mission crew in Duqm

August 2, 2023, 11:21 am

According to Indian Navy officials, the crew of the INS Trinkand mission, which was sent there for anti-piracy operations, interacted with Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar of the Indian Navy. Additionally, the Port of Duqm and the various amenities offered for ship berthing there were shown to Admiral R Hari Kumar. “While in Oman, Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar spoke to the crew of the INS Trikand mission, which was sent there to conduct anti-piracy operations. The Indian Navy officials said that he was also shown the Port of Duqm and the various ship berthing options as well as the ship repair and maintenance facilities there.

The Indian Navy Chief is on a three-day visit to Oman — from July 31 to August 2 — with the aim of consolidating existing bilateral defence relations and high-level discussions with the military leadership of Oman.
Earlier on Tuesday, he discussed issues regarding bilateral defence cooperation with Gen Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Nu’amani, Minister of Royal Office.
He will hold bilateral discussions with his Oman counterpart Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser bin Mohsen Al-Rahbi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) and with Major General Matar bin Salim bin Rashid Al Balushi, Commander of the Royal Army of Oman, Ministry of Defence said in a press release.

The Naval Chief arrived in Muscat on Sunday and was welcomed by Rear Admiral Saif bin Nassir bin Mohsin Al-Rahbi, Commander, Royal Navy of Oman and India’s Ambassador to Oman Amit Narang.

Hockey India announces India colts team for Junior Asia Cup 2023

May 4, 2023, 4:29 pm

The 18-member Indian Junior Men’s Hockey team of the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 to be held in Salalah, Oman an 18-member team announced by Hockey India on Thursday. The match is scheduled to take place between May 23 and June 1, 2023.

India’s junior men’s hockey team is set to compete in the qualifying event for the FIH Junior Men’s World Cup in Malaysia this December. The team will face tough competition in pool A against Pakistan, Japan, Thailand, and Chinese Taipei. Meanwhile, pool B will see Korea, Malaysia, Oman, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan facing off.

The Indian squad boasts a mix of experienced players who have participated in previous tournaments, including the FIH Junior World Cup in 2021 and the Sultan of Johor Cup in 2022, where they emerged victorious.

The team’s captain, Uttam Singh, and vice-captain, Boby Singh Dhami, will lead the charge. Mohith HS and Himwaan Sihag will serve as goalkeepers, while Shardanand Tiwari, Rohit, Amandeep Lakra, Amir Ali, and Yogember Rawat will form India’s defence.

The midfield will feature Vishnukant Singh, who performed exceptionally well in the recent FIH Hockey Pro League in Rourkela, along with Rajinder Singh, Poovanna CB, Amandeep, and Sunit Lakra. The forward line will be made up of Boby Singh Dhami, Araijeet Singh Hundal, Aditya Lalage, Uttam Singh, Sudeep Chirmako, and Angad Bir Singh.

Indian Junior Men’s Team-

Goalkeepers: Mohith H. S. and Himwaan Sihag
Defenders: Shardanand Tiwari, Rohit, Amandeep Lakra, Amir Ali, and Yogember Rawat
Midfielers: Vishnukant Singh, Rajinder Singh, Poovanna CB, Amandeep, and Sunit Lakra
Forwards: Boby Singh Dhami (VC), Araijeet Singh Hundal, Aditya Lalage, Uttam Singh (C), Sudeep Chirmako, and Angad Bir Singh