Iran Accused of Smuggling Illicit Weapons to Yemen Through Oman

A recent report has accused Iran of smuggling illicit weapons to Yemen through Oman, despite Oman’s participation in international efforts to combat transnational organized crime. The allegations have sparked concerns about the country’s tolerance of such activities.

Concentration of Power and Lack of Transparency

Oman’s concentration of power around the Sultan presents significant challenges to the country’s transparency and openness. The government’s supreme audit institution has been criticized for failing to meet international standards of independence, as it does not audit the government’s approved budget. Additionally:

• The executive budget proposal is not published
• There is limited disclosure of information regarding debt obligations, royal family budgets, and the earnings of state-owned enterprises

Border with Yemen and Smuggling Activities

Oman has participated in various meetings to strengthen cooperation and combat crime, including the ratification of several international conventions. However:

• Concerns persist about the country’s border with Yemen
• The Musandam province, located separately from the rest of Oman, raises potential concerns due to its remoteness and proximity to Iran

Relationship with Iran

The Sultan of Oman has emphasized the importance of maintaining ties with Iran in line with his predecessor’s foreign policy. However:

• Critics have accused the country of allegedly turning a blind eye to Iranian attempts to smuggle weapons to the Houthi militia through local connections in the Dhofar region

Economic and Financial Environment

Oman has implemented significant measures to combat money laundering risks and deficiencies, including the establishment of an independent body tasked with investigating financial transactions associated with money laundering and terrorist financing. However:

• Concerns persist about the vulnerability of the real estate sector to money laundering
• The country’s economic environment is also challenged by:
  • Restrictive labor regulations
  • Corruption in public procurement
  • Potential illicit activities in the labor recruitment industry

Despite these challenges, Oman has displayed positive economic indicators, with projected growth and reduced fiscal deficit.

Civil Society and Social Protection

Efforts to assist victims of crime, predominantly of human trafficking, take the form of provision of shelters and anti-trafficking capabilities by the police. However:

• The controversial Kafala sponsorship system continues to pose significant risks to migrant workers
• The policy of ‘Omanization’ has pushed many workers into the illicit market

Additionally:

• Press freedom has experienced a decline in Oman, with prevalent self-censorship and consequences for criticizing ruling authorities
• Journalists and activists have faced arrests and charges for various infractions, including claims of violating the country’s cybercrime laws
• Workers are allowed to unionize, except for household workers and government officials, while strikes are prohibited in the oil and gas sector

Overall, Oman’s efforts to combat transnational organized crime and human trafficking are hampered by its opaque bureaucratic system and lack of transparency. The country’s concentration of power around the Sultan also raises concerns about its commitment to democratic principles and human rights.