Oman’s Covert Support of Houthi Rebels: A Call for U.S. Accountability

Oman’s seemingly neutral stance masks its role in supporting the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Its provision of refuge, logistics, and arms has prolonged the conflict and jeopardized international trade routes. The U.S. must reassess its relationship with Oman and implement measures to mitigate its support for the Houthis, while addressing the strategic implications of this support across the region.

Oman has emerged as an unexpected facilitator for the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, contradicting its publicly maintained image of neutrality. While Oman positions itself as a diplomatic mediator, it allegedly provides refuge, logistics, and possibly direct aid to the Houthis, undermining international stability and threatening U.S. interests. This incongruence highlights the need for the United States to reassess its relationship with Oman and address its role in prolonging the conflict.

Muscat’s apparent neutrality is undermined by its actions, such as granting asylum to key Houthi figures. Among them is Mohammed Abdul Salam, the group’s chief negotiator, facilitating coordination on military operations that undermine the claims of impartiality. Reports indicate that Oman has established a smuggling corridor for arms, further straining its supposed neutrality as it allows Houthi leaders to operate unimpeded.

The implications of Oman’s support for the Houthis are significant, as evidenced by escalated attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea, compelling shipping companies to take longer routes. These actions not only disrupt trade but also endanger one of the world’s key maritime passages. In just months, the Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on vessels, resulting in casualties and sparking U.S. military responses, including airstrikes aimed at their infrastructure.

While military interventions are necessary, they only treat the symptoms of a deeper-rooted issue stemming from Oman’s support for the Houthis. The resilience of this militant group owes much to its external backing, particularly from Oman, which has allowed the continuation of hostilities and destabilization initiatives supported by Iran.

The ramifications of this alliance are regional, as Oman’s support effectively strengthens not just the Houthis but also Iran’s broader proxy network, which includes groups like Hezbollah and various Iraqi militias. This contributes to serious instability across the Middle East, and thus, Oman’s actions must be understood within this hazardous context.

In response, U.S. policymakers should adopt a revised approach towards Oman, moving beyond the outdated narrative of Omani neutrality. Diplomatic overtures must emphasize that continued support for the Houthis will incite a strong U.S. response. Moreover, economic partnerships should hinge upon Oman’s compliance in halting assistance to the Houthis.

Additionally, enhancing intelligence operations with regional allies will be essential to intercept illicit arms flowing through Oman. The possibility of imposing sanctions or economic restrictions on Omani entities involved in these networks should remain on the table as a strategic response.

Monitoring Oman’s financial institutions for connections to Houthi operations will also be crucial. The U.S. Treasury should investigate and potentially freeze the assets of businesses facilitating Houthi transactions, thereby disrupting their funding.

Finally, Congress should ensure greater accountability regarding foreign aid and military assistance to Oman, with conditionality imposed based on Oman’s actions toward the Houthis. The U.S. must also collaborate with allies to identify alternative trade routes that bypass Omani ports, lessening its leverage over regional supply chains and further encouraging a shift away from support for the insurgents.

The complexities surrounding Oman’s involvement with the Houthis necessitate a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy. Oman’s dual role as a facilitator of conflict and a purported mediator of peace illustrates a troubling contradiction. To safeguard regional stability and U.S. interests, Washington must take a proactive stance, employing diplomatic, economic, and intelligence strategies to counter Oman’s complicity in Houthi aggression. A comprehensive approach is vital to address both the symptoms and root causes of this geopolitical challenge.

Original Source: www.jpost.com