Oman’s Concealed Support for Houthi Rebels: A Call for Accountability

Oman’s role in supporting Houthi rebels in Yemen undermines regional stability and U.S. interests. Despite claiming neutrality, Oman has granted refuge to Houthi officials and facilitated arms smuggling. The Houthi threat disrupts global shipping and necessitates a robust U.S. response involving diplomacy, economic pressure, and increased oversight of Omani financial systems to address the issue.

The geopolitical situation in the Middle East is increasingly precarious, with Oman taking on a concealed but impactful role in bolstering the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. While Oman is often perceived as a neutral mediator, it has provided significant assistance to the Houthis, including sanctuary and logistical support, thus endangering international stability and American strategic interests.

Oman’s facade of neutrality is severely undermined by its actions, as it has harbored prominent Houthi figures such as Mohammed Abdul Salam, facilitating their operations. Reports indicate that Oman has established smuggling routes supplying the Houthis with weaponry. The interception of advanced weapons headed for Houthi areas further illustrates Oman’s complicity in this conflict.

This clandestine support has escalated the threat posed by the Houthis to global shipping, prompting significant alterations to international maritime routes. Since November 2023, the Houthis have intensified their aggressions, leading to a U.S. military response that included airstrikes on Houthi assets aimed at crippling their operational effectiveness.

The ramifications of the Houthis’ resilience extend far beyond the region, enabling a wider Iranian proxy network that destabilizes multiple governments. Oman is an indirect yet crucial player in supporting Iranian ambitions, thus necessitating a reassessment of its role by Washington.

The United States must confront Oman regarding its support for the Houthis and implement diplomatic and economic measures to curtail this assistance. Increased intelligence-sharing and a robust interdiction strategy are required to disrupt the flow of arms, while financial scrutiny of Omani institutions can help inhibit Houthi funding.

Greater oversight concerning U.S. foreign aid to Oman must also be prioritized. By imposing conditions on military and economic support, Washington can ensure that Oman takes verifiable steps to diminish its involvement with the Houthis, thus promoting regional stability.

In conclusion, Oman’s covert facilitation of the Houthi rebels poses a significant threat to regional and international stability. The United States must adopt a firm stance against this enabling behavior, focusing on diplomatic routes, economic sanctions, and enhanced oversight of Omani financial practices. By doing so, it can mitigate the risks posed by the Houthis and re-establish security in crucial maritime routes while holding Oman accountable for its actions.

Original Source: www.jpost.com