Oman's Foreign Ministry said that Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke by telephone to discuss the situation in the region and efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East. The two sides exchanged views on efforts to contain the fallout from regional tensions and on using diplomatic efforts to resolve points of conflict, while supporting security and stability in the region. The statement said the two also discussed regional issues of mutual interest and stressed the importance of continuing cooperation between Oman and the United States, including consultation and coordination through established channels. The call took place amid rising regional tensions and disruption to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, a meeting between Iran and countries of the Persian Gulf region, which had been scheduled for Monday in the Omani city of Salalah, has been postponed. It had been expected that Iran and Oman would brief countries in the region on discussions about a new shipping arrangement in the Strait of Hormuz.
