US Accuses Oman of Aiding Iran’s Illicit Weapons Smuggling to Yemen

US Officials Reveal Shocking Allegations Against Oman

US officials have accused the Sultanate of Oman of turning a blind eye to Iran’s attempts to smuggle weapons to the Houthi militia in Yemen through local connections in the Dhofar region. The allegations have sparked widespread concern and criticism of Oman’s lack of transparency and openness.

Lack of Transparency and Cooperation

• According to sources, Oman has failed to take adequate measures to prevent the smuggling activities, despite its claims of cooperating with international efforts to combat crime and terrorism.
• The country’s Supreme Audit Institution has been criticized for lacking independence, as it does not audit the government’s approved budget, which raises questions about the transparency of public finances.

Concentration of Power and Lack of Accountability

• The concentration of power around the Sultan in Oman makes it difficult to hold anyone accountable for any wrongdoing.
• There are limited disclosures regarding debt obligations, royal family budgets, and the earnings of state-owned enterprises, making it challenging to assess the country’s financial health.

Diplomatic Row and Denials by Oman

• The US allegations have sparked a diplomatic row between Washington and Muscat, with Oman denying any involvement in the smuggling activities.
• Sources close to the matter claim that Omani authorities have been aware of the illegal activities but have chosen to ignore them due to their ties with Iran.

Impact on Regional Stability

• Yemen is already embroiled in a devastating civil war, and the Houthi militia’s use of weapons smuggled from Oman has raised concerns about the impact on regional stability.
• The Houthi militia, backed by Iran, has been accused of using weapons smuggled from Oman to launch attacks on Saudi Arabia and other coalition forces.

Judiciary and Prison System Criticized

• Oman’s judiciary has been criticized for lacking independence, with cases involving corruption and the royal family being kept secret from the public.
• There have also been reports of abuse and torture in prisons, although specific data remains unavailable due to the lack of transparency in the penitentiary system.

Call for Increased International Pressure

• The US accusations have sparked a heated debate about Oman’s commitment to combating terrorism and organized crime, with some critics calling for increased international pressure on the country to comply with global anti-terrorism and anti-corruption efforts.