When it comes to us has ‘lost control of its own foreign policy’, says oman’s foreign minister, oman's Foreign Minister, Badr Albusaidi, has delivered a striking critique of US foreign policy, asserting that the United States has "lost control of its own foreign policy." In a recent article for the Economist, Albusaidi accused Israel of compelling the Trump administration to initiate military action against Iran, a move he labeled a "catastrophe" and a "grave miscalculation." His comments come amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli military operations against Iran.
Understanding US Has ‘lost Control Of Its Own Foreign Policy’, Says Oman’s Foreign Minister
Albusaidi's remarks highlight what he perceives as a significant shift in the political landscape of the Middle East. The foreign minister noted that the bombing of Iran by US and Israeli forces followed substantive nuclear negotiations in Geneva, suggesting that both nations were on the verge of reaching a meaningful agreement. "It was a shock but not a surprise when on 28 February - just a few hours after the latest and most substantive talks - Israel and America again launched an unlawful military strike against the peace that had briefly appeared really possible," he wrote. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Oman's proactive stance throughout these events is noteworthy. As one of the most vocal Gulf states against a potential US attack on Iran, Oman, alongside the UAE and Qatar, sought to advocate for diplomatic solutions. Albusaidi stated that Iran and the US were nearing a significant deal, with Iran reportedly prepared to make substantial concessions regarding its uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief. This assessment aligns with insights shared by Jonathan Powell, the UK's national security adviser, who attended the final stages of the negotiations.
Misjudgments in US Foreign Policy
According to Albusaidi, the decision by the US to engage militarily in Iran was fundamentally flawed. He criticized Israeli leadership for allegedly pushing the Trump administration toward war under the false impression that Iran would capitulate following the assassination of its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "The American administration's greatest miscalculation, of course, was allowing itself to be drawn into this war in the first place," he emphasized. He further warned that this situation does not represent America's war and that there is no viable scenario where both Israel and America will achieve their strategic objectives.
The consequences of this conflict, as Albusaidi pointed out, are dire not only for Iran and Israel but also for the broader Gulf region, which has faced significant retaliation from Iran. He described the ongoing war as a "catastrophe," lamenting that neither side appears willing to engage in negotiations to resolve the conflict. This lack of dialogue increases the likelihood of prolonged instability in the region, with potential repercussions for international relations.
Oman's Diplomatic Role Amid Regional Turmoil
In light of this turmoil, Oman has distinguished itself from other Gulf states through its vocal criticism of the US. Traditionally viewed as a close ally, the US now faces allegations from Oman of acting as a proxy for Israeli interests in the Middle East. In a recent press conference, Albusaidi stated that the ongoing military actions by the US and Israel against Iran are illegal and represent a breach of international law. He expressed concern that the continuation of hostilities only serves to deepen the crisis and calls for an immediate cessation of military actions.
He argued that for Israel to meet its strategic goals, a long-term military campaign would be necessary, one that would likely require a significant commitment of American troops on the ground. Such a scenario would open a new front in conflicts that President Trump had previously vowed to end, further complicating an already volatile situation.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Diplomacy
As the conflict drags on with no apparent resolution in sight, the situation remains precarious. Albusaidi's advocacy for a return to bilateral negotiations signifies hope for a more diplomatic resolution. He has urged for an end to the current hostilities, advocating for a diplomatic path that could potentially halt the cycle of violence.
Given Oman's unique position in the region and its history of mediating between conflicting parties, it may play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue. The ongoing situation in the Middle East underscores the urgent need for a reassessment of policies, particularly by the US, to avoid further escalation and to prioritize peace over conflict in the region.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.