BRICS, Oman talks reveal how Gulf states are preparing for Iran’s next phase – analysis

The Iran conflict is entering a new phase, with Gulf states preparing for future developments through key meetings in India and Oman. At the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit in New Delhi, UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss regional and international issues, emphasizing the importance of "supporting efforts to promote calm, de-escalation and stability in the region." This meeting occurred as Saudi Arabia faces increased pressure from Iranian-backed groups in Iraq and Yemen, leading to the precautionary shutdown of its East-West Pipeline.

• Oman is set to host a meeting on Monday with Gulf states and Iran to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, though Bahrain is not expected to attend.
• Iran's President Pezeshkian stated that Arab foreign ministers would meet in Muscat to sign an agreement establishing a joint Iran-Oman shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz.
• BRICS leaders expressed "deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in the Middle East/West Asia" and called for "exercising maximum restraint."