Encroaching sands have left little evidence that the Omani village of Wadi al-Murr ever existed, but former inhabitants and curious visitors are coming to rediscover the hamlet engulfed by the desert.

Salem al-Arimi, originally from the area, looked out nostalgically over the expanse.

According to local elders, "all the houses in the village were invaded by the sand that assailed them 30 years ago, forcing the inhabitants to leave their homes," he said.

Building tops and sections of stone wall emerge here and there, bearing witness to those who once lived here.

Deserts are expanding all over the world, pushed on by climate change, and affected populations have few weapons to fight back.

Wadi al-Murr's inhabitants, who mostly relied on pastoral activities, had to give up their village, swelling the ranks of those migrating to towns and cities.

Nostalgia

Located at the bottom of a valley nearly 400 kilometres (250 miles) southwest of the capital Muscat, Wadi al-Murr is cut off from main roads and only reachable via a long, rough track.

Its isolation, including from the electricity and water grids, contributed to its slide into obscurity.

But that has not prevented erstwhile residents from returning to visit, along with trekking enthusiasts who take desert hikes in the region.

Mohammed al-Ghanbousi, a former inhabitant, said the moving dunes had re-exposed some dwellings after they were covered by sand.

This phenomenon has prompted "nostalgic people to visit the village, whose structures still stand because they are built from stone," he said.

"The village has recently been included in trekking tours and also attracts photography enthusiasts," he added.

A mosque that sits within the village, which in its heyday had about 30 houses and 150 inhabitants, is one building that has resurfaced.

Mohammed al-Alaoui said that when his mother learnt some homes had reappeared, she asked him to take her back.

"She often wants to go, and she likes to be there while she relates her memories of the old days, and sheds a few tears," he said.

Tourism

Rashed al-Ameri is among the Omani tourists who have come to discover the hamlet swallowed by the desert.

He travelled from Sur, hundreds of kilometres away, with two friends who were also keen to see Wadi al-Murr.

Oman, which is trying to diversify its oil-reliant economy, is seeking to develop its tourism industry -- capitalising on its rich heritage, scenic coasts and stunning mountain geography.

The sultanate attracted three million foreign tourists in 2019, but like almost everywhere else, the novel coronavirus pandemic reduced visitors to a trickle in 2020.&nbsp;

Ameri is among those who believe Wadi al-Murr could easily be included on Oman's tourist trail.

"What amazed me was that the force of nature could erase an entire village," he said.

"And what's more amazing is how this place, with its old walls, resists these assaults."

Encroaching sands have left little evidence that the Omani village of Wadi al-Murr ever existed, but former inhabitants and curious visitors are coming to rediscover the hamlet engulfed by the desert.

Encroaching sands have left little evidence that the Omani village of Wadi al-Murr ever existed, but former inhabitants and curious visitors are coming to rediscover the hamlet engulfed by the desert. Salem al-Arimi, originally from the area, looked out nostalgically over the expanse. According to local elders, "all the houses in the village were invaded by the sand that assailed them 30 years ago, forcing the inhabitants to leave their homes," he said. Building tops and sections of stone wall emerge here and there, bearing witness to those who once lived here. Deserts are expanding all over the world, pushed on by climate change, and affected populations have few weapons to fight back. Wadi al-Murr's inhabitants, who mostly relied on pastoral activities, had to give up their village, swelling the ranks of those migrating to towns and cities. Nostalgia Located at the bottom of a valley nearly 400 kilometres (250 miles) southwest of the capital Muscat, Wadi al-Murr is cut off from main roads and only reachable via a long, rough track. Its isolation, including from the electricity and water grids, contributed to its slide into obscurity. But that has not prevented erstwhile residents from returning to visit, along with trekking enthusiasts who take desert hikes in the region. Mohammed al-Ghanbousi, a former inhabitant, said the moving dunes had re-exposed some dwellings after they were covered by sand. This phenomenon has prompted "nostalgic people to visit the village, whose structures still stand because they are built from stone," he said. "The village has recently been included in trekking tours and also attracts photography enthusiasts," he added. A mosque that sits within the village, which in its heyday had about 30 houses and 150 inhabitants, is one building that has resurfaced. Mohammed al-Alaoui said that when his mother learnt some homes had reappeared, she asked him to take her back. "She often wants to go, and she likes to be there while she relates her memories of the old days, and sheds a few tears," he said. Tourism Rashed al-Ameri is among the Omani tourists who have come to discover the hamlet swallowed by the desert. He travelled from Sur, hundreds of kilometres away, with two friends who were also keen to see Wadi al-Murr. Oman, which is trying to diversify its oil-reliant economy, is seeking to develop its tourism industry -- capitalising on its rich heritage, scenic coasts and stunning mountain geography. The sultanate attracted three million foreign tourists in 2019, but like almost everywhere else, the novel coronavirus pandemic reduced visitors to a trickle in 2020. Ameri is among those who believe Wadi al-Murr could easily be included on Oman's tourist trail. "What amazed me was that the force of nature could erase an entire village," he said. "And what's more amazing is how this place, with its old walls, resists these assaults."

Omanis revive memory of village swallowed by desert

Hezbollah said on Saturday that it strongly condemned Bahrain's move of normalisation of ties with Israel. On Friday, Bahrain and Isreal said in a joint statement that they were establishing full diplomatic relations with each other.&nbsp;

Both countries issued a joint statement to this effect along with the US. By taking the step, Bahrain joined UAE in establishing diplomatic contact with Israeal.Media reports say that UAE and Bahrain went ahead to normalise ties with Israel out of shared fears of Iran but this could also leave the Palestinians further isolated.

Hezbollah has often spoken of "Israeli expansionist trends" in Palestine. Hezbollah had criticised Israel-UAE deal as well.

Bahrain was widely expected to be among the next Arab countries that would be eager to normalise relations with Israel. After the Arab Spring, Bahrain's monarchy was seen to be swinging away from pan-Islamic and pan-Arabism. Bahrain relies on its good relations with the USA.What's more? Bahrain also hosts US Navy's 5th fleet in the Persian Gulf.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/palestinians-rally-against-bahrain-israel-normalisation-327084">Palestinians rally against Bahrain-Israel normalisation</a> 
&nbsp;

Bahrain had never been directly at war with Israel. It already used Israeli technology and had recognised Israel's "right to exist" two years ago.

Who's next to be friends with Israel?

Oman and Morocco are widely believed to follow UAE and Bahrain to improve relations with Israel although there is no official confirmation as of now.

Morocco is a strong US ally and already has trade and tourism relations with Israel. It does not recognise Israel as a state currently but that picture may change.

Oman is a US ally and depends on it for its external security. Though Oman supports formation of a Palestinian State, it has not had overt or covert conflict with Israel. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu had even visited Oman in the year 2018.

Hezbollah said on Saturday that it strongly condemned Bahrain's move of normalisation of ties with Israel. On Friday, Bahrain and Isreal said in a joint statement that they were establishing full diplomatic relations with each other.

Hezbollah said on Saturday that it strongly condemned Bahrain's move of normalisation of ties with Israel. On Friday, Bahrain and Isreal said in a joint statement that they were establishing full diplomatic relations with each other. Both countries issued a joint statement to this effect along with the US. By taking the step, Bahrain joined UAE in establishing diplomatic contact with Israeal.Media reports say that UAE and Bahrain went ahead to normalise ties with Israel out of shared fears of Iran but this could also leave the Palestinians further isolated. Hezbollah has often spoken of "Israeli expansionist trends" in Palestine. Hezbollah had criticised Israel-UAE deal as well. Bahrain was widely expected to be among the next Arab countries that would be eager to normalise relations with Israel. After the Arab Spring, Bahrain's monarchy was seen to be swinging away from pan-Islamic and pan-Arabism. Bahrain relies on its good relations with the USA.What's more? Bahrain also hosts US Navy's 5th fleet in the Persian Gulf. Also Read | Palestinians rally against Bahrain-Israel normalisation Bahrain had never been directly at war with Israel. It already used Israeli technology and had recognised Israel's "right to exist" two years ago. Who's next to be friends with Israel? Oman and Morocco are widely believed to follow UAE and Bahrain to improve relations with Israel although there is no official confirmation as of now. Morocco is a strong US ally and already has trade and tourism relations with Israel. It does not recognise Israel as a state currently but that picture may change. Oman is a US ally and depends on it for its external security. Though Oman supports formation of a Palestinian State, it has not had overt or covert conflict with Israel. Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu had even visited Oman in the year 2018.

Hezbollah condemns Bahrain. But will more Arab countries befriend Israel in near future?

Iran has rejected as "unrealistic" a call by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for the United Nations to extend an international arms embargo on Tehran that ends in October, state TV reported on Monday.

The GCC, made up of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, said on Sunday that Iran`s continued interference in neighbouring countries made an extension necessary.

The arms embargo is currently set to end on October&nbsp;18 as part of Tehran`s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which the United States quit in 2018.

"The GCC is currently at the apex of its incompetence and its unrealistic policies have rendered it ineffective," Iran`s Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi told a televised news conference.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/irans-ayatollah-khamenei-creates-official-hindi-twitter-account-319286">Also read:&nbsp;Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei creates official Hindi Twitter account</a>

"The council, swayed by the wrong and destructive policies and behaviour of certain member states, has turned into a mouthpiece for anti-Iran elements inside and outside the region."

U. S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday that the United Nations Security Council will vote this week on a U.S. bid to extend the arms embargo on Iran, despite warnings by some diplomats that the measure lacks support.

If the United States is unsuccessful in extending the embargo, it has threatened to trigger a return of all U.N. sanctions on Iran under a process agreed in the 2015 deal.

In May, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani threatened a "crushing response" if the embargo on Iranian trade of conventional arms was extended.

Iran has breached parts of the nuclear deal in response to the 2018 U.S. withdrawal and Washington’s reimposition of sanctions.

Iran has rejected as "unrealistic" a call by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for the United Nations to extend an international arms embargo on Tehran that ends in October, state TV reported on Monday.

Iran has rejected as "unrealistic" a call by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for the United Nations to extend an international arms embargo on Tehran that ends in October, state TV reported on Monday. The GCC, made up of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, said on Sunday that Iran`s continued interference in neighbouring countries made an extension necessary. The arms embargo is currently set to end on October 18 as part of Tehran`s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which the United States quit in 2018. "The GCC is currently at the apex of its incompetence and its unrealistic policies have rendered it ineffective," Iran`s Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi told a televised news conference. Also read: Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei creates official Hindi Twitter account "The council, swayed by the wrong and destructive policies and behaviour of certain member states, has turned into a mouthpiece for anti-Iran elements inside and outside the region." U. S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday that the United Nations Security Council will vote this week on a U.S. bid to extend the arms embargo on Iran, despite warnings by some diplomats that the measure lacks support. If the United States is unsuccessful in extending the embargo, it has threatened to trigger a return of all U.N. sanctions on Iran under a process agreed in the 2015 deal. In May, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani threatened a "crushing response" if the embargo on Iranian trade of conventional arms was extended. Iran has breached parts of the nuclear deal in response to the 2018 U.S. withdrawal and Washington’s reimposition of sanctions.

Iran says GCC call for Tehran arms embargo extension is 'unrealistic'

The Omani finance ministry order issued earlier this week to replace expats from govt job will not be immediately implemented and could take over a year for any concrete action on the ground. WION has learnt that Omani government companies will be submitting plans to replace ex-pats along with next year's budget proposals. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Omanization policy is more than 30 years old and aims to provide jobs to the local population. With a young population, the aim is to provide jobs to them through this policy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-expat-indians-should-worry-about-omans-drive-to-fire-foreign-workers-295914">Why expat Indians should worry about Oman's drive to fire foreign workers</a>

As questions are being raised, how much it will impact Indians in the country a source said, "Most of the Indian workers are blue-collar workers, working in the construction sector, where this circular will not apply"

7,70,000 Indians in Oman, of which 6,55,000 workers, according to MEA. The Omani govt puts the number of Indian workers in Oman at 617,730 at the end of 2019.

While the decision comes during the COVID-19 crisis, it has no links with the pandemic. The West Asian country is the least affected country in GCC--Gulf Cooperation Council by COVID reporting 2,447 cases, with around 500 recoveries and 11 deaths.

Oman has been taking good care of the Indian community during the current COVID crisis. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Indian envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar speaking to WION last week said, &nbsp;"I would like to convey our deep gratitude to the govt of Oman for the measures they have taken to support the Indian community in Oman. Oman is providing free testing, and treatment and they have also provided food in the areas of strict lockdown."

Meanwhile, India has been facilitating the supply of food items and other commodities to Oman, via air and sea routes. Recently, New Delhi agreed to provide HCQ as requested by Govt of Oman. 
&nbsp;

The Omani finance ministry order issued earlier this week to replace expats from govt job will not be immediately implemented and could take over a year for any concrete action on the ground.

The Omani finance ministry order issued earlier this week to replace expats from govt job will not be immediately implemented and could take over a year for any concrete action on the ground. WION has learnt that Omani government companies will be submitting plans to replace ex-pats along with next year's budget proposals. Omanization policy is more than 30 years old and aims to provide jobs to the local population. With a young population, the aim is to provide jobs to them through this policy. Also read | Why expat Indians should worry about Oman's drive to fire foreign workers As questions are being raised, how much it will impact Indians in the country a source said, "Most of the Indian workers are blue-collar workers, working in the construction sector, where this circular will not apply" 7,70,000 Indians in Oman, of which 6,55,000 workers, according to MEA. The Omani govt puts the number of Indian workers in Oman at 617,730 at the end of 2019. While the decision comes during the COVID-19 crisis, it has no links with the pandemic. The West Asian country is the least affected country in GCC--Gulf Cooperation Council by COVID reporting 2,447 cases, with around 500 recoveries and 11 deaths. Oman has been taking good care of the Indian community during the current COVID crisis. Indian envoy to Oman Munu Mahawar speaking to WION last week said, "I would like to convey our deep gratitude to the govt of Oman for the measures they have taken to support the Indian community in Oman. Oman is providing free testing, and treatment and they have also provided food in the areas of strict lockdown." Meanwhile, India has been facilitating the supply of food items and other commodities to Oman, via air and sea routes. Recently, New Delhi agreed to provide HCQ as requested by Govt of Oman.

Oman policy to replace expats likely to implement next year, blue collar Indian workers not to be impacted

Huge reprieve for Indian expats in Oman. Oman government now said that orders to replace expats may take almost a year to implement.

Huge reprieve for Indian expats in Oman, 'orders to replace expats may take a year to implement'

Oman has ordered all state-owned companies to replace expats with locals. There are more than 8,00,000 Indian expats currently living in Oman. Are their jobs at risk?

Gravitas: Oman wants state firms to replace expats with locals

Oman today ordered all state-owned companies to fire expat workers. It wants foreigners to be replaced with local citizens. The order was part of the financial guidelines issued by the government. Oman has 4.6 million residents, about a third of them are expats.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulf-countries-have-requested-for-deployment-of-doctors-over-covid-19-says-mea-295890">Also Read:&nbsp;Gulf countries have requested for deployment of doctors over COVID-19, says MEA</a>

The state-owned enterprises employs a major chunk of them. It is a development India should be worried about. At least eight lakh Indian workers work in Oman. In the short term, a part of them could lose their jobs. The ministry of external affairs issued a statement today.

It said that the new policy does not target Indians in Oman and the government of Oman is taking special care of them but it doesn't assure protection from job loss.

Oman has been tightening its belt in the past few months. Earlier, state-owned companies were asked to avoid new projects this year. They were asked to limit their operational administrative expenses to 10 per cent this year. The budget cuts became necessary.

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enhanced-our-position-as-pharmacy-of-the-world-mea-on-sending-medicines-globally-295892"> coronavirus</a> outbreak is hurting Oman, including the oil price war and the subsequent collapse in prices is a major setback for the country. It is among the worst-affected countries. While Oman is a small energy producer its government debt papers have degraded substantially.

In fact, the country has been rated as "junk" by certain rating agencies. The oil slump and the coronavirus crisis has created perhaps the perfect storm for the Gulf. There are reports anticipating job losses and budget cuts. Indian expats living in the Gulf could be staring at the eye of this storm.

Oman today ordered all state-owned companies to fire expat workers. It wants foreigners to be replaced with local citizens. The order was part of the financial guidelines issued by the government.

Oman today ordered all state-owned companies to fire expat workers. It wants foreigners to be replaced with local citizens. The order was part of the financial guidelines issued by the government. Oman has 4.6 million residents, about a third of them are expats. Also Read: Gulf countries have requested for deployment of doctors over COVID-19, says MEA The state-owned enterprises employs a major chunk of them. It is a development India should be worried about. At least eight lakh Indian workers work in Oman. In the short term, a part of them could lose their jobs. The ministry of external affairs issued a statement today. It said that the new policy does not target Indians in Oman and the government of Oman is taking special care of them but it doesn't assure protection from job loss. Oman has been tightening its belt in the past few months. Earlier, state-owned companies were asked to avoid new projects this year. They were asked to limit their operational administrative expenses to 10 per cent this year. The budget cuts became necessary. The coronavirus outbreak is hurting Oman, including the oil price war and the subsequent collapse in prices is a major setback for the country. It is among the worst-affected countries. While Oman is a small energy producer its government debt papers have degraded substantially. In fact, the country has been rated as "junk" by certain rating agencies. The oil slump and the coronavirus crisis has created perhaps the perfect storm for the Gulf. There are reports anticipating job losses and budget cuts. Indian expats living in the Gulf could be staring at the eye of this storm.

Why expat Indians should worry about Oman's drive to fire foreign workers

World In One News, WION Exclusively speaks to Munu Mahawar, who is currently serving as an Indian envoy to Oman.

WION Exclusively speaks to Munu Mahawar | India's envoy to Oman | India-Oman

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India. However, the Indian administration has started to use diplomatic channels to reset the ties.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier had telephonic conservations with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, where he stressed on India's "Think West" foreign policy. He reportedly also highlighted the need for a collaborative and coordinated strategy to tackle the COVID-19 crisis.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wont-let-fake-tweets-create-discord-gulf-countries-assure-india-294638">Won't let fake tweets create discord, Gulf countries assure India</a>

The Minister of External Affairs (MEA) S Jaishankar also extended his greetings on the holy month of Ramzan to the foreign ministers of the Middle East countries and thanked them for supporting the Indian diaspora. The foreign ministers of Gulf nations also lauded the contribution of the Indian community during the coronavirus outbreak and promised to support them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-suspends-isis-fake-account-being-used-to-spread-fake-news-against-india-in-gulf-countries-294510">Twitter suspends ISI's fake account being used to spread fake news against India in Gulf countries</a>

India is also supplying drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar.&nbsp;

After Kuwait's request, India has also sent a specialised team of medical professionals for training purposes related to coronavirus.&nbsp;

The Indo-Gulf talks also touched upon the negative social media campaign and the two sides agreed to have a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents.&nbsp;

This comes after a number of parody accounts on Twitter spread fake information which strained the ties between both the regions.&nbsp;

India also vowed that it will help in the evacuation at the earliest of the medical personnel from the Gulf who are stranded in India.&nbsp;

The recovery plan post-COVID-19 was also discussed, along with talks on energy and volatility in the oil market.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India.

India's relationship with the Arab world was impacted in the last few weeks and one of the major reasons was fake Twitter handles used from Pakistan to defame India. However, the Indian administration has started to use diplomatic channels to reset the ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier had telephonic conservations with his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, where he stressed on India's "Think West" foreign policy. He reportedly also highlighted the need for a collaborative and coordinated strategy to tackle the COVID-19 crisis. Also read | Won't let fake tweets create discord, Gulf countries assure India The Minister of External Affairs (MEA) S Jaishankar also extended his greetings on the holy month of Ramzan to the foreign ministers of the Middle East countries and thanked them for supporting the Indian diaspora. The foreign ministers of Gulf nations also lauded the contribution of the Indian community during the coronavirus outbreak and promised to support them. Also read | Twitter suspends ISI's fake account being used to spread fake news against India in Gulf countries India is also supplying drugs, including hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar. After Kuwait's request, India has also sent a specialised team of medical professionals for training purposes related to coronavirus. The Indo-Gulf talks also touched upon the negative social media campaign and the two sides agreed to have a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents. This comes after a number of parody accounts on Twitter spread fake information which strained the ties between both the regions. India also vowed that it will help in the evacuation at the earliest of the medical personnel from the Gulf who are stranded in India. The recovery plan post-COVID-19 was also discussed, along with talks on energy and volatility in the oil market.

Diplomacy at work to ease off straining Indo-Arab ties

On twitter, fake accounts of Pakistani origin are posing are Arabs - and pushing anti-India posts. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you how during a pandemic, a disinformation campaign is compromising the fight against the Coronavirus.

Gravitas: Pakistanis pose as Arabs, push anti-India posts

Continuing its anti-India propaganda on social media platforms, a Pakistani Twitter account changed its handle name to pose as Omani princess and tweeted anti-India material. Interestingly, several old tweets have been dug out from the same account, which has been deleted now, and it clearly shows Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) is behind the account.

Pakistani Twitter account posing as Omani princess shares anti-India material

Pakistan foreign minister quotes fake account, Oman princess denies links to account

Japan's PM Shinzo Abe is in Abu Dhabi and scheduled to visit Oman next week. Japan's cabinet decided to use about 500 million yen (4.5Million USD) from this year's budget preserves for the self-defence forces. Leaders also discussed to reduce tensions in West Asia.

Japan to spend 4.6 million dollars in west asia

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday announced one-day state mourning on January 13 on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omans-sultan-qaboos-dies-council-starts-succession-process-273505">passing away of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said</a>, Sultan of Oman.

The Sultan breathed his last on Friday. Qaboos was one of the longest-serving rulers of the Middle East. He was 79 years old and had been keeping unwell for years. In early December, the Sultan spent a week in Belgium undergoing medical treatment.

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MHA: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said,Sultan of Oman passed away. As mark of respect,Indian Govt has decided that there will be one day's state mourning on January 13 throughout India.National flag to fly at half mast &amp;there will be no official entertainment on that day <a href="https://t.co/Elzr3PzXRc">pic.twitter.com/Elzr3PzXRc</a>
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"His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, Sultan of Oman passed away. As a mark of respect, the Indian government has decided that there will be one day's state mourning on January 13 throughout India. The National flag to fly at half-mast and there will be no official entertainment on that day," the MHA release read.&nbsp;

Sultan Qaboos's cousin, Haitham bin Tariq al-Said, was named as his successor yesterday.

In a televised address, Haitham vowed to pursue peace and development of Oman.&nbsp;

"We will continue to assist in resolving disputes peacefully," Haitham said.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday announced one-day state mourning on January 13 on the passing away of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, Sultan of Oman. The Sultan breathed his last on Friday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday announced one-day state mourning on January 13 on the passing away of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, Sultan of Oman. The Sultan breathed his last on Friday. Qaboos was one of the longest-serving rulers of the Middle East. He was 79 years old and had been keeping unwell for years. In early December, the Sultan spent a week in Belgium undergoing medical treatment. MHA: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said,Sultan of Oman passed away. As mark of respect,Indian Govt has decided that there will be one day's state mourning on January 13 throughout India.National flag to fly at half mast &there will be no official entertainment on that day pic.twitter.com/Elzr3PzXRc — ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2020 × "His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, Sultan of Oman passed away. As a mark of respect, the Indian government has decided that there will be one day's state mourning on January 13 throughout India. The National flag to fly at half-mast and there will be no official entertainment on that day," the MHA release read. Sultan Qaboos's cousin, Haitham bin Tariq al-Said, was named as his successor yesterday. In a televised address, Haitham vowed to pursue peace and development of Oman. "We will continue to assist in resolving disputes peacefully," Haitham said. (With inputs from agencies)

India declares one-day state mourning on passing away of Sultan of Oman

Oman's ailing Sultan Qaboos bin Said, one of the Middle East's longest serving rulers, died on Friday and the Gulf state's high military council called on the ruling family to convene to choose a successor, state media said.

Three days of official mourning have been declared with flags flown at half-mast for 40 days, for the Western-backed Qaboos, 79, who had ruled since taking over in a bloodless coup in 1970 with the help of former colonial power Britain.

State news agency ONA did not give a cause of death, but Qaboos had been unwell for years and spent a week in Belgium undergoing medical treatment in early December.

Qaboos had no children and had not publicly appointed a successor. A 1996 statute says the ruling family will choose a successor within three days of the throne becoming vacant.

The high military council, in a statement carried on state media on Saturday, called on Oman's ruling family council to convene to choose a new ruler.

If the council fails to agree, a council of military and security officials, supreme court chiefs and heads of the two consultative assemblies will put in power the person whose name has been secretly written by the sultan in a sealed letter.

There has been wide speculation over the succession as domestic challenges loom large, from strained state finances to high unemployment.

Oman observers say the sultan's three cousins - Assad, Shihab and Haitham bin Tariq al-Said - stand the best chance.

"I imagine that the succession itself will be a smooth process within Oman," Kristian Coates Ulrichsen of the Texas-based Rice University's Baker Institute told Reuters.

"But the wildcard is whether any of Oman's neighbours might try to pressure the new sultan as he settles into power - just as the Saudis and Emiratis tried to pressure Emir Tamim in the weeks and months after he assumed power in Qatar in 2013."

Diplomacy

Oman has long been to the Middle East what neutral Switzerland is to global diplomacy, balancing ties between two vast neighbours locked in a regional struggle, Saudi Arabia to the west and Iran to the north.

Muscat did not take sides in a Gulf dispute that saw Riyadh and its allies impose a boycott on Qatar in mid-2017 and did not join a Saudi-led military coalition that intervened in Yemen against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement.

The sultan's death comes at a time of heightened tension in the region between Iran and the United States.

Oman maintains friendly ties with Washington and Tehran and helped mediate secret U.S.-Iran talks in 2013 that led two years later to the international nuclear pact which Washington quit in 2018.

Oman's diplomatic centrality has been a factor of Qaboos' personality, said Simon Henderson, director of the Bernstein Program on Gulf and Energy Policy at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

"It is hard to see how Oman can involve itself in the Yemen, Iran and Qatar issues until a new leader has established himself - which means for the foreseeable future."

Oman's ailing Sultan Qaboos bin Said, one of the Middle East's longest serving rulers, died on Friday and the Gulf state's high military council called on the ruling family to convene to choose a successor, state media said.

Oman's ailing Sultan Qaboos bin Said, one of the Middle East's longest serving rulers, died on Friday and the Gulf state's high military council called on the ruling family to convene to choose a successor, state media said. Three days of official mourning have been declared with flags flown at half-mast for 40 days, for the Western-backed Qaboos, 79, who had ruled since taking over in a bloodless coup in 1970 with the help of former colonial power Britain. State news agency ONA did not give a cause of death, but Qaboos had been unwell for years and spent a week in Belgium undergoing medical treatment in early December. Qaboos had no children and had not publicly appointed a successor. A 1996 statute says the ruling family will choose a successor within three days of the throne becoming vacant. The high military council, in a statement carried on state media on Saturday, called on Oman's ruling family council to convene to choose a new ruler. If the council fails to agree, a council of military and security officials, supreme court chiefs and heads of the two consultative assemblies will put in power the person whose name has been secretly written by the sultan in a sealed letter. There has been wide speculation over the succession as domestic challenges loom large, from strained state finances to high unemployment. Oman observers say the sultan's three cousins - Assad, Shihab and Haitham bin Tariq al-Said - stand the best chance. "I imagine that the succession itself will be a smooth process within Oman," Kristian Coates Ulrichsen of the Texas-based Rice University's Baker Institute told Reuters. "But the wildcard is whether any of Oman's neighbours might try to pressure the new sultan as he settles into power - just as the Saudis and Emiratis tried to pressure Emir Tamim in the weeks and months after he assumed power in Qatar in 2013." Diplomacy Oman has long been to the Middle East what neutral Switzerland is to global diplomacy, balancing ties between two vast neighbours locked in a regional struggle, Saudi Arabia to the west and Iran to the north. Muscat did not take sides in a Gulf dispute that saw Riyadh and its allies impose a boycott on Qatar in mid-2017 and did not join a Saudi-led military coalition that intervened in Yemen against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The sultan's death comes at a time of heightened tension in the region between Iran and the United States. Oman maintains friendly ties with Washington and Tehran and helped mediate secret U.S.-Iran talks in 2013 that led two years later to the international nuclear pact which Washington quit in 2018. Oman's diplomatic centrality has been a factor of Qaboos' personality, said Simon Henderson, director of the Bernstein Program on Gulf and Energy Policy at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. "It is hard to see how Oman can involve itself in the Yemen, Iran and Qatar issues until a new leader has established himself - which means for the foreseeable future."

Oman's Sultan Qaboos dies; council starts succession process

Oman's Sultan Qaboos bin Said, one of the Middle East's longest-serving rulers who maintained the country's neutrality in regional struggles, died on Friday and his cousin Haitham bin Tariq al-Said was announced successor in a smooth transition. #Oman #MiddleEast #QaboosBin #WION

Oman's Sultan Qaboos passed away, three-day mourning declared

Tropical cyclone Hikka is hovering over the Arabian Sea and is likely to affect some areas of Oman's coastline by Tuesday afternoon.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), "Cyclonic Storm HIKAA over Oman and lay centered at 0530 hrs IST of 25th Sept near lat 19.6°N and long 55.9°E about 70 km southwest of Haima.&nbsp;It is likely to move west-southwestwards, weaken into a depression in the next six hours and into a well-marked low in subsequent six hours.

"The Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) in Oman also took to micro-blogging site to announce details of the upcoming storm and warned the locals to take precaution measures and stay away from low areas as much as possible.&nbsp;

The organization also advised people to avoid crossing through wadis."The tropical storm continues to move westward towards the coasts of Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta Governorates, and the landfall is expected to be between Masirah Island and Ras Al Madraka by 3-7 pm," said PACA.

"The direct effects over Governorates of Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta will be starting from today afternoon, which will be associated with heavy rain ranging between 60 and 100 milliliters and gale winds ranging between 55 and 65 knots," it added.&nbsp;

Tropical cyclone Hikka is hovering over the Arabian Sea and is likely to affect some areas of Oman's coastline by Tuesday afternoon. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), "Cyclonic Storm HIKAA over Oman and lay centered at 0530 hrs IST of 25th Sept near lat 19.

Tropical cyclone Hikka is hovering over the Arabian Sea and is likely to affect some areas of Oman's coastline by Tuesday afternoon. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), "Cyclonic Storm HIKAA over Oman and lay centered at 0530 hrs IST of 25th Sept near lat 19.6°N and long 55.9°E about 70 km southwest of Haima. It is likely to move west-southwestwards, weaken into a depression in the next six hours and into a well-marked low in subsequent six hours. "The Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) in Oman also took to micro-blogging site to announce details of the upcoming storm and warned the locals to take precaution measures and stay away from low areas as much as possible. The organization also advised people to avoid crossing through wadis."The tropical storm continues to move westward towards the coasts of Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta Governorates, and the landfall is expected to be between Masirah Island and Ras Al Madraka by 3-7 pm," said PACA. "The direct effects over Governorates of Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta will be starting from today afternoon, which will be associated with heavy rain ranging between 60 and 100 milliliters and gale winds ranging between 55 and 65 knots," it added.

Headline Cyclonic storm 'Hikka' to reach Oman coast by today afternoon: IMD

Indian hockey player Mandeep Singh on Tuesday said that if the team wins laurels for the country, the sport will itself resonate with people and will garner more admirers.

He also added that the Indian Hockey Team is confident of qualifying for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Appreciating the 'Khelo India' initiative of the Sports Ministry, Singh said it has proved to a good platform."Khelo India has proved to be a good platform. It has helped in improving the game at the grassroots levels.&nbsp;

Our Sports Minister has always supported us. The honours lie upon us to win medals for the country," Singh told ANI.

"If we keep on winning medals for the country, the game itself will resonate with the youth and people will get attracted towards the sport. If people say cricket gets the support, I will add that hockey is also getting the support. If we keep on winning medals, the sport will attract people towards it," he went on to add.

As the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are fast approaching, Singh said that the first task for the side will be to qualify for the sporting event. The 24-year-old added that he's confident of qualifying for the Olympics and affirmed that if the team is through, they will strive to win gold.

"We are working very hard, the first thing we need to do is to qualify for the Olympics. For qualifying, we need to put our best foot forward and then we will aim to win the gold medal," Singh said.

"Our first task is to qualify for the Olympics, I am confident we will qualify and after qualification, we will think about the Tokyo Olympics. I hope we will continue to remain consistent, our aim will always be to win a medal for the country," he added.

Hockey India on July 25 had announced an 18-member squad for the Olympic Test event in Japan.

The team management had decided to rest senior players such as captain Manpreet Singh, PR Sreejesh and Surender Kumar.

The Indian team chief coach Graham Reid had said that the break will help the players shake off any niggling injuries and refresh themselves ahead of the Olympic qualifying matches in November.

Singh agreed with the head coach's statement, saying the rest was much needed for senior players. He also showed faith in the youngsters, stating that the new players will put their best foot forward.

"All the new players that have come into our side, they are all good. Some senior players needed rest, and they have been given rest by the federation. Some players were playing at a stretch from a long time so the rest was much needed.&nbsp;

New players are really good, they have been given an opportunity in the Olympic Test Event and I am confident they will perform to the best of their ability," Singh said.

Singh, who made his foray into international hockey in 2013, said that his game is improving day by day. According to him, his main task is to create penalty corners and convert them into goals.

Singh had scored his first goal against Oman in 2013, and the player has established his place in the side, becoming the linchpin in the current hockey team.

"I think my game is improving day by day. My main role is to create penalty corners and convert them into goals. I went into a dull period in the middle, but I was able to come back in to form and right now all things have fallen into place," Singh said.

Former Indian hockey team skipper Dhanraj Pillay had earlier emphasised on the betterment of rural setup to find and nurture players in the sporting circle.

"If more players are to be found and nurtured in the sporting circle, rural setup needs to be improved. No doubt, players from big cities get opportunities faster. But the rural setup has always given us great players. 
Players hailing from small towns make the most out of the given opportunity. I truly believe our hockey team will qualify for Tokyo 2020 Olympics," Pillay had told ANI.

Singh agreed with the former Olympian, and hoped to see more players from rural India come under the limelight in future."I agree with Dhanraj sir. Hockey is getting support from all around the corners, the rural setup has improved quite a lot and I hope it continues to get better to give more players to the country," Singh said.

Pillay had also urged the team to not to concede goals in the dying minutes of the match. Singh said that the team has been practicing quite hard to get better in this aspect.

"We are practicing quite hard to eradicate this problem. Conceding last-minute goals has been a problem, but our support staff is working closely with us and our coach has always told us to give 100% in the last five minutes of the match," Singh said.

"We scored goals in the dying minutes in our last tournament, we are working really hard at this aspect and our coaching staff is helping us improve," he added.

The Indian team would next be participating in the Olympic Test event which is slated to begin from August 17 in Japan.

Indian hockey player Mandeep Singh on Tuesday said that if the team wins laurels for the country, the sport will itself resonate with people and will garner more admirers.

Indian hockey player Mandeep Singh on Tuesday said that if the team wins laurels for the country, the sport will itself resonate with people and will garner more admirers. He also added that the Indian Hockey Team is confident of qualifying for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Appreciating the 'Khelo India' initiative of the Sports Ministry, Singh said it has proved to a good platform."Khelo India has proved to be a good platform. It has helped in improving the game at the grassroots levels. Our Sports Minister has always supported us. The honours lie upon us to win medals for the country," Singh told ANI. "If we keep on winning medals for the country, the game itself will resonate with the youth and people will get attracted towards the sport. If people say cricket gets the support, I will add that hockey is also getting the support. If we keep on winning medals, the sport will attract people towards it," he went on to add. As the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are fast approaching, Singh said that the first task for the side will be to qualify for the sporting event. The 24-year-old added that he's confident of qualifying for the Olympics and affirmed that if the team is through, they will strive to win gold. "We are working very hard, the first thing we need to do is to qualify for the Olympics. For qualifying, we need to put our best foot forward and then we will aim to win the gold medal," Singh said. "Our first task is to qualify for the Olympics, I am confident we will qualify and after qualification, we will think about the Tokyo Olympics. I hope we will continue to remain consistent, our aim will always be to win a medal for the country," he added. Hockey India on July 25 had announced an 18-member squad for the Olympic Test event in Japan. The team management had decided to rest senior players such as captain Manpreet Singh, PR Sreejesh and Surender Kumar. The Indian team chief coach Graham Reid had said that the break will help the players shake off any niggling injuries and refresh themselves ahead of the Olympic qualifying matches in November. Singh agreed with the head coach's statement, saying the rest was much needed for senior players. He also showed faith in the youngsters, stating that the new players will put their best foot forward. "All the new players that have come into our side, they are all good. Some senior players needed rest, and they have been given rest by the federation. Some players were playing at a stretch from a long time so the rest was much needed. New players are really good, they have been given an opportunity in the Olympic Test Event and I am confident they will perform to the best of their ability," Singh said. Singh, who made his foray into international hockey in 2013, said that his game is improving day by day. According to him, his main task is to create penalty corners and convert them into goals. Singh had scored his first goal against Oman in 2013, and the player has established his place in the side, becoming the linchpin in the current hockey team. "I think my game is improving day by day. My main role is to create penalty corners and convert them into goals. I went into a dull period in the middle, but I was able to come back in to form and right now all things have fallen into place," Singh said. Former Indian hockey team skipper Dhanraj Pillay had earlier emphasised on the betterment of rural setup to find and nurture players in the sporting circle. "If more players are to be found and nurtured in the sporting circle, rural setup needs to be improved. No doubt, players from big cities get opportunities faster. But the rural setup has always given us great players. Players hailing from small towns make the most out of the given opportunity. I truly believe our hockey team will qualify for Tokyo 2020 Olympics," Pillay had told ANI. Singh agreed with the former Olympian, and hoped to see more players from rural India come under the limelight in future."I agree with Dhanraj sir. Hockey is getting support from all around the corners, the rural setup has improved quite a lot and I hope it continues to get better to give more players to the country," Singh said. Pillay had also urged the team to not to concede goals in the dying minutes of the match. Singh said that the team has been practicing quite hard to get better in this aspect. "We are practicing quite hard to eradicate this problem. Conceding last-minute goals has been a problem, but our support staff is working closely with us and our coach has always told us to give 100% in the last five minutes of the match," Singh said. "We scored goals in the dying minutes in our last tournament, we are working really hard at this aspect and our coaching staff is helping us improve," he added. The Indian team would next be participating in the Olympic Test event which is slated to begin from August 17 in Japan.

If we keep winning medals, Hockey will garner admirers in India: Mandeep Singh

Iran's neighbours have made talks impossible through their "hasty and arrogant moves", a top security official told Oman's foreign minister in Tehran on Saturday amid a tanker crisis.

Oman, a past mediator between Iran and its foes, sent its top diplomat to the Islamic republic amid amplified tensions between Iran and the United States and its allies, including in the Gulf.

"Some of the region's countries have not only removed the possibility of talks because of hasty and arrogant moves and behaviour but have also made managing regional crises a serious challenge," said Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

Shamkhani, who spoke after meeting with Omani Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi, also hit out at a British plan for a European coalition to escort tankers in the Gulf.

"Security measures for the region must use local capabilities and cooperation between regional countries, and foreign countries' interference will achieve nothing but increase problems," he said, quoted by the website of Iran's state television.

Tensions in the Gulf have soared since last year when President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposed sanctions on the country.

In retaliation, Iran said in May it would disregard certain limits the deal set on its nuclear programme and threatened to take further measures if remaining parties to the accord, especially European nations, did not help it circumvent US sanctions.

Tensions have escalated further in the region with a string of incidents involving tankers and drones.

The United States and Gulf powerhouse Saudi Arabia accused Iran of being behind multiple attacks on tankers in the Gulf in June, which Iran denies.

On July 19, a British-flagged tanker was impounded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards with its 23 crew aboard in the Strait of Hormuz.

The seizure was seen by London as a tit-for-tat move for British authorities detaining an Iranian tanker off the UK overseas territory of Gibraltar in early July.

Shamkhani called on all countries to "respect international maritime law in order to maintain security".

"In contrast to the British maritime piracy, who illegally detained an Iranian oil shipment in Gibraltar, Iran's move was completely legal and was made in order to implement maritime rules and maintain maritime security," he said.

Bin Alawi also held talks with Iran's foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, in Tehran on Saturday.

Oman has called for the release of the UK-flagged Stena Impero and for London and Tehran to resolve their dispute diplomatically.

Iran's neighbours have made talks impossible through their "hasty and arrogant moves", a top security official told Oman's foreign minister in Tehran on Saturday amid a tanker crisis.

Iran's neighbours have made talks impossible through their "hasty and arrogant moves", a top security official told Oman's foreign minister in Tehran on Saturday amid a tanker crisis. Oman, a past mediator between Iran and its foes, sent its top diplomat to the Islamic republic amid amplified tensions between Iran and the United States and its allies, including in the Gulf. "Some of the region's countries have not only removed the possibility of talks because of hasty and arrogant moves and behaviour but have also made managing regional crises a serious challenge," said Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Shamkhani, who spoke after meeting with Omani Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi, also hit out at a British plan for a European coalition to escort tankers in the Gulf. "Security measures for the region must use local capabilities and cooperation between regional countries, and foreign countries' interference will achieve nothing but increase problems," he said, quoted by the website of Iran's state television. Tensions in the Gulf have soared since last year when President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposed sanctions on the country. In retaliation, Iran said in May it would disregard certain limits the deal set on its nuclear programme and threatened to take further measures if remaining parties to the accord, especially European nations, did not help it circumvent US sanctions. Tensions have escalated further in the region with a string of incidents involving tankers and drones. The United States and Gulf powerhouse Saudi Arabia accused Iran of being behind multiple attacks on tankers in the Gulf in June, which Iran denies. On July 19, a British-flagged tanker was impounded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards with its 23 crew aboard in the Strait of Hormuz. The seizure was seen by London as a tit-for-tat move for British authorities detaining an Iranian tanker off the UK overseas territory of Gibraltar in early July. Shamkhani called on all countries to "respect international maritime law in order to maintain security". "In contrast to the British maritime piracy, who illegally detained an Iranian oil shipment in Gibraltar, Iran's move was completely legal and was made in order to implement maritime rules and maintain maritime security," he said. Bin Alawi also held talks with Iran's foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, in Tehran on Saturday. Oman has called for the release of the UK-flagged Stena Impero and for London and Tehran to resolve their dispute diplomatically.

Iran tells Oman neighbours have made talks impossible

A 21-year-old girl named Shaheen Begum had alleged of facing harassment in Oman and her family members have sought government help to bring the victim back to the country.

Shaheen had gone to Oman during Ramzan this year on the pretext of working as a helper, however, she later informed her family that she is being employed as a housemaid is facing harassment.

Shaheen`s mother Sultana Begum said, "An agent had promised my daughter job in Oman with Rs 25,000 salary.&nbsp;

However, on the landing where she was employed as a housemaid and started facing a difficult situation.&nbsp;

She has also developed medical issues and is requesting to be rescued to India.&nbsp;

The agent is demanding money which we don`t have.

"Sultana is also seeking the government`s help to bring her daughter back."

I request the central government to help and rescue my Shaheen Begum from Oman", she said.

A 21-year-old girl named Shaheen Begum had alleged of facing harassment in Oman and her family members have sought government help to bring the victim back to the country.

A 21-year-old girl named Shaheen Begum had alleged of facing harassment in Oman and her family members have sought government help to bring the victim back to the country. Shaheen had gone to Oman during Ramzan this year on the pretext of working as a helper, however, she later informed her family that she is being employed as a housemaid is facing harassment. Shaheen`s mother Sultana Begum said, "An agent had promised my daughter job in Oman with Rs 25,000 salary. However, on the landing where she was employed as a housemaid and started facing a difficult situation. She has also developed medical issues and is requesting to be rescued to India. The agent is demanding money which we don`t have. "Sultana is also seeking the government`s help to bring her daughter back." I request the central government to help and rescue my Shaheen Begum from Oman", she said.

Hyderabad girl stranded in Oman, mother seeks government help

The Strait of Hormuz is a strait between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It provides the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean and is one of the world's most strategically important choke points.

World's most important oil transit path: The strait of Hormuz

Reuters reported that Trump conveys message to Iran via Oman. Where some reports state that Trump called off attack at the last minute. Iran said that War will have international implications. Reuters Khamenei to decide on talks. Watch this video to know more.

Trump warns Iran of 'imminent attack'

The US Navy on Wednesday said it has collected biometric information including fingerprints from the body of one of two oil tankers that were attacked in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flying-objects-damaged-japanese-tanker-during-attack-in-gulf-of-oman-kokuka-sangyo-co-president-227084">Gulf of Oman last week.</a>

Displaying the fragments of limpet mines that the US Navy said had been used to attack the Japanese-owned '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-attacks-in-gulf-of-oman-stoke-security-and-oil-fears-226939">Kokuka Courageous' tanker</a>, near the UAE port of Fujairah today, Commander Sean Kido from the Naval Forces Central Command said that the devices bore a "striking resemblance" to the Iranian ones, The New York Post reported.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/limpet-mine-used-in-oil-tanker-attack-resembled-iranian-mines-us-navy-228762">The limpet mine</a> that was used in the attack is distinguishable and also strikingly bearing a resemblance to Iranian mines that have already been publicly displayed in Iranian military parades," Kido said.

The Commander also showed small fragments alleged to have been removed from the Japanese-owned 'Kokuka Courageous' tanker.

In addition, a magnet purportedly left by a team from Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) was also displayed during the media briefing.

The US military had previously released images it said showed the IRGC removing an unexploded limpet mine from the Kokuka Courageous, which was hit by explosions along with the Norwegian-owned Front Altair ship on June 13.

However, Tehran has denied any involvement in the attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil supplies, but the incidents have sparked fears of a broader confrontation in the Gulf region.

The company that owns the Kokuka Courageous has said the vessel was damaged by two "flying objects."

Kido said, "The damage at the blast hole is consistent with a limpet mine attack, it is not consistent with an external flying object striking the ship," adding that nail holes indicated how the mine was attached to the hull.

He also stated that the fingerprints from the hull would help in building a criminal case, apparently in reference to Iran.

The Commander added that Washington is working with regional partners on a "joint and combined investigation," but declined to name the countries involved.

The attack on the oil tankers came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran after President Donald Trump announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and bombers to the Middle East and sent additional troops to the Arabian Gulf region.

On its part, Iran recently has quadrupled its production of low-enriched uranium and threatened to boost its enrichment closer to weapons-grade levels in an attempt to pressure Europe for new terms to the 2015 nuclear deal.

The US Navy on Wednesday said it has collected biometric information including fingerprints from the body of one of two oil tankers that were attacked in the Gulf of Oman last week.

The US Navy on Wednesday said it has collected biometric information including fingerprints from the body of one of two oil tankers that were attacked in the Gulf of Oman last week. Displaying the fragments of limpet mines that the US Navy said had been used to attack the Japanese-owned 'Kokuka Courageous' tanker, near the UAE port of Fujairah today, Commander Sean Kido from the Naval Forces Central Command said that the devices bore a "striking resemblance" to the Iranian ones, The New York Post reported. "The limpet mine that was used in the attack is distinguishable and also strikingly bearing a resemblance to Iranian mines that have already been publicly displayed in Iranian military parades," Kido said. The Commander also showed small fragments alleged to have been removed from the Japanese-owned 'Kokuka Courageous' tanker. In addition, a magnet purportedly left by a team from Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) was also displayed during the media briefing. The US military had previously released images it said showed the IRGC removing an unexploded limpet mine from the Kokuka Courageous, which was hit by explosions along with the Norwegian-owned Front Altair ship on June 13. However, Tehran has denied any involvement in the attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for global oil supplies, but the incidents have sparked fears of a broader confrontation in the Gulf region. The company that owns the Kokuka Courageous has said the vessel was damaged by two "flying objects." Kido said, "The damage at the blast hole is consistent with a limpet mine attack, it is not consistent with an external flying object striking the ship," adding that nail holes indicated how the mine was attached to the hull. He also stated that the fingerprints from the hull would help in building a criminal case, apparently in reference to Iran. The Commander added that Washington is working with regional partners on a "joint and combined investigation," but declined to name the countries involved. The attack on the oil tankers came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran after President Donald Trump announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and bombers to the Middle East and sent additional troops to the Arabian Gulf region. On its part, Iran recently has quadrupled its production of low-enriched uranium and threatened to boost its enrichment closer to weapons-grade levels in an attempt to pressure Europe for new terms to the 2015 nuclear deal.

United States army recovers finger prints from Japanese oil tanker attacked in Gulf of Oman

Two "flying objects" damaged a Japanese <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-behind-tanker-attack-in-gulf-of-oman-us-acting-ambassador-jonathan-cohen-226968">tanker </a>owned by Kokuka Sangyo Co in an attack on Thursday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-attacks-in-gulf-of-oman-stoke-security-and-oil-fears-226939">Gulf of Oman</a>, but there was no damage to the cargo of methanol, the company president said on Friday.

The Kokuka Courageous is now sailing toward the port of Khor Fakkan in the United Arab Emirates, with the crew having returned to the ship after evacuating because of the incident, Kokuka President Yutaka Katada told a press conference. It was being escorted by the US Navy, he said.

"The crew told us something came flying at the ship, and they found a hole," Katada said. "Then some crew witnessed the second shot."

Katada said there was no possibility that the ship, carrying 25,000 tons of methanol, was hit by a torpedo.

The United States has blamed Iran for attacking the Kokuka Courageous and another tanker, the Norwegian-owned Front Altair, on Thursday, but Tehran has denied the allegations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/received-distress-calls-from-two-tankers-under-attack-in-gulf-of-oman-us-fifth-fleet-226781">44 crew members rescued from two oil tankers after accident: Iran state media</a>

The ship's crew saw an Iranian military ship in the vicinity on Thursday night Japan time, Katada said.

Katada said he did not believe Kokuka Courageous was targeted because it was owned by a Japanese firm. The tanker is registered in Panama and was flying a Panamanian flag, he said.

"Unless very carefully examined, it would be hard to tell the tanker was operated or owned by Japanese," he said.

The tanker was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz, a major strategic waterway through which about one-fifth of global oil consumption passes on its way from Middle Eastern producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UAE and Kuwait as well as Iran.

"This strait is very crucial. Without this route we can not transport gasoline and heavy oil to Japan," Katada said.

"Unless another major incident occurs, as long as we get approval from our crew, we will continue operating our tankers via this route to Saudi Arabia."

Japanese Industry Minister Hiroshige Seko said on Friday that the incidents will be discussed at a meeting of G20 energy and environment ministers this weekend.

Seko declined to comment on American officials blaming Iran, saying Japan is still investigating the incident, which occurred while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was in Tehran trying to help ease rising tensions between the United States and Iran.

Two "flying objects" damaged a Japanese tanker owned by Kokuka Sangyo Co in an attack on Thursday in the Gulf of Oman, but there was no damage to the cargo of methanol, the company president said on Friday.

Two "flying objects" damaged a Japanese tanker owned by Kokuka Sangyo Co in an attack on Thursday in the Gulf of Oman, but there was no damage to the cargo of methanol, the company president said on Friday. The Kokuka Courageous is now sailing toward the port of Khor Fakkan in the United Arab Emirates, with the crew having returned to the ship after evacuating because of the incident, Kokuka President Yutaka Katada told a press conference. It was being escorted by the US Navy, he said. "The crew told us something came flying at the ship, and they found a hole," Katada said. "Then some crew witnessed the second shot." Katada said there was no possibility that the ship, carrying 25,000 tons of methanol, was hit by a torpedo. The United States has blamed Iran for attacking the Kokuka Courageous and another tanker, the Norwegian-owned Front Altair, on Thursday, but Tehran has denied the allegations. Also read: 44 crew members rescued from two oil tankers after accident: Iran state media The ship's crew saw an Iranian military ship in the vicinity on Thursday night Japan time, Katada said. Katada said he did not believe Kokuka Courageous was targeted because it was owned by a Japanese firm. The tanker is registered in Panama and was flying a Panamanian flag, he said. "Unless very carefully examined, it would be hard to tell the tanker was operated or owned by Japanese," he said. The tanker was attacked near the Strait of Hormuz, a major strategic waterway through which about one-fifth of global oil consumption passes on its way from Middle Eastern producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UAE and Kuwait as well as Iran. "This strait is very crucial. Without this route we can not transport gasoline and heavy oil to Japan," Katada said. "Unless another major incident occurs, as long as we get approval from our crew, we will continue operating our tankers via this route to Saudi Arabia." Japanese Industry Minister Hiroshige Seko said on Friday that the incidents will be discussed at a meeting of G20 energy and environment ministers this weekend. Seko declined to comment on American officials blaming Iran, saying Japan is still investigating the incident, which occurred while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was in Tehran trying to help ease rising tensions between the United States and Iran.

'Flying objects' damaged Japanese tanker during attack in Gulf of Oman: Kokuka Sangyo Co president

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/received-distress-calls-from-two-tankers-under-attack-in-gulf-of-oman-us-fifth-fleet-226781">oil tanker incidents in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday</a> were "suspicious" and called for regional dialogue to avoid tensions.

Zarif tweeted that "reported attacks on Japan-related" oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman had taken place while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was meeting Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei "for extensive and friendly talks".

"Suspicious doesn't begin to describe what likely transpired this morning," he tweeted. "Iran's proposed Regional Dialogue Forum is imperative."

An Iranian port official denied on Thursday reports that one of the tankers attacked in the Gulf of Oman had sunk, state broadcaster IRIB reported.

The official said a fire in one tanker was fully contained and its 21 crew would be returned to the vessel after safety inspections. A second ship was still burning, he said.

Shipping firms and industry sources said two tankers were hit in suspected attacks in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, sending oil prices as much as 4% higher a month after four other tankers were damaged by limpet mines in the region.

Meanwhile, state-run Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) said on Thursday its vessels were operating as normal after suspected tanker attacks in the Gulf of Oman, state news agency KUNA reported on Thursday.

The company is ready for any emergency and has taken all necessary precautionary measures to ensure the safe operation of its fleet, KOTC added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said two oil tanker incidents in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday were "suspicious" and called for regional dialogue to avoid tensions.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said two oil tanker incidents in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday were "suspicious" and called for regional dialogue to avoid tensions. Zarif tweeted that "reported attacks on Japan-related" oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman had taken place while Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was meeting Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei "for extensive and friendly talks". "Suspicious doesn't begin to describe what likely transpired this morning," he tweeted. "Iran's proposed Regional Dialogue Forum is imperative." An Iranian port official denied on Thursday reports that one of the tankers attacked in the Gulf of Oman had sunk, state broadcaster IRIB reported. The official said a fire in one tanker was fully contained and its 21 crew would be returned to the vessel after safety inspections. A second ship was still burning, he said. Shipping firms and industry sources said two tankers were hit in suspected attacks in the Gulf of Oman on Thursday, sending oil prices as much as 4% higher a month after four other tankers were damaged by limpet mines in the region. Meanwhile, state-run Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) said on Thursday its vessels were operating as normal after suspected tanker attacks in the Gulf of Oman, state news agency KUNA reported on Thursday. The company is ready for any emergency and has taken all necessary precautionary measures to ensure the safe operation of its fleet, KOTC added.

Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif calls oil tanker incidents 'suspicious', wants regional talks

PM Modi won't be flying over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-requests-pakistan-to-let-pm-modis-flight-pass-through-its-airspace-225685">Pakistan airspace while visiting Kyrgyzstan</a> for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit.

An official spokesman said: "The government explored two options for the route to be taken by the VVIP aircraft to Bishkek. A decision has now been taken that the VVIP aircraft will fly via Oman, Iran and central Asian countries on the way to Bishkek."

Pakistan had decided in principle to let PM Modi's aircraft to fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan. Air India has confirmed that the route taken by PM Modi's plane does not cross over Pakistan airspace anywhere.

The summit will take place on Thursday and Friday. Pakistan PM Imran Khan will also be present at the summit, however, PM Modi and PM Imran Khan are not set to meet.

Indians, Afghans getting affected

This comes even as many Indians face daily trouble to come back to India. The airspace closure is also impacting thousands of Indian students in Kyrgyzstan. As many as 4,500 Indian students are there in Kyrgyzstan. Indian are now paying extra and also bearing the brunt of longer flights top come to India.&nbsp;

Not just Indians, many Afghans who wanted to visit family members in India or come for health checkups are also facing problems.&nbsp;

The time and cost for Kabul-New Delhi flight have increased substantially. A Delhi to Kabul flight that used to take less than 2 hours earlier now takes more than five hours just because it now has to go via Iran.

Watch: PM Modi's tough stand against terror, no meet with Imran Khan

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Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11.

India had earlier requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan.&nbsp;

Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21 last year.

PM Modi won't be flying over Pakistan airspace while visiting Kyrgyzstan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit. An official spokesman said: "The government explored two options for the route to be taken by the VVIP aircraft to Bishkek.

PM Modi won't be flying over Pakistan airspace while visiting Kyrgyzstan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) summit. An official spokesman said: "The government explored two options for the route to be taken by the VVIP aircraft to Bishkek. A decision has now been taken that the VVIP aircraft will fly via Oman, Iran and central Asian countries on the way to Bishkek." Pakistan had decided in principle to let PM Modi's aircraft to fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan. Air India has confirmed that the route taken by PM Modi's plane does not cross over Pakistan airspace anywhere. The summit will take place on Thursday and Friday. Pakistan PM Imran Khan will also be present at the summit, however, PM Modi and PM Imran Khan are not set to meet. Indians, Afghans getting affected This comes even as many Indians face daily trouble to come back to India. The airspace closure is also impacting thousands of Indian students in Kyrgyzstan. As many as 4,500 Indian students are there in Kyrgyzstan. Indian are now paying extra and also bearing the brunt of longer flights top come to India. Not just Indians, many Afghans who wanted to visit family members in India or come for health checkups are also facing problems. The time and cost for Kabul-New Delhi flight have increased substantially. A Delhi to Kabul flight that used to take less than 2 hours earlier now takes more than five hours just because it now has to go via Iran. Watch: PM Modi's tough stand against terror, no meet with Imran Khan × Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11. India had earlier requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan. Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21 last year.

PM Modi not to fly over Pak airspace for SCO summit; plane to travel via Oman, Iran and central Asian countries

Chabahar is back in the news after a hiatus of about two years. The contexts of its importance are several but the first one in the current milieu is the fact that despite President Donald Trump’s avowed sanctions on everything related to Iran, India’s Chabahar-based relationship with Tehran has received a waiver. That puts on course the fructification of efforts which commenced many summers ago but got an impetus with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tehran in May 2016, leading to the signing of the trilateral tripartite agreement between India, Iran and Afghanistan.

The US provided an “exception” from certain sanctions, to the Iranian port of Chabahar that India has developed and used for reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. This exemption is in addition to temporary freedom from sanctions that the US announced for India and seven major importers of Iranian crude oil.

Why is Chabahar strategically important, for India, the US, Iran and Afghanistan? That will answer many questions. It starts with the fact that its geostrategic location, outside the Persian Gulf and yet on the Iranian coastline, puts it slightly out of harm’s way in the event of the Straits of Hormuz being forcibly closed; although, it is well appreciated that such a closure will no doubt presuppose an adverse effect on all of Iran’s port facilities.

To access Central Asia, often referred to as the heart of Asia, and Afghanistan, there are only two routes from the Indian Ocean. The first is from Pakistan’s Gwadar or Karachi ports and the second is from Chabahar which lies on the southeastern coast of Iran in the Sistan-Baluchistan province. Why the US agreed to waive sanctions for activities connected with the development of the port is simply because India is the nation providing alternatives for establishing communication arteries to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan.

For 17 years, the US has fought in Afghanistan and depended on a single artery for its logistics; through Karachi and Pakistan-Baluchistan into Afghan territory. Due to its animosity with Iran, the clearly viable alternative via Chabahar through Iranian territory, to West Afghanistan could not be exploited. The lack of development of Chabahar placed Afghanistan in a predicament because of its reliance on Karachi with all strings in the hands of none-too-friendly Pakistan.

India’s stakes in Afghanistan being high, the realization perhaps came late that Chabahar had serious transformational strategic potential to bypass Pakistan. Once India demonstrated its deep interest and the tripartite agreement with Iran and Afghanistan was signed in mid-2016, the movement of a consignment of wheat from Kandla port in Gujarat to Kabul via Chabahar went through smoothly; that experiment spurred further movement on Chabahar.

With portents of conflict termination in Afghanistan, the US too realised the important role India could play at this stage, such that all eggs were not in Pakistan’s basket. Otherwise all Pakistan needed to do in order to bring down the Afghan National Unity Government (NUG) was to establish a blockade from Karachi and the landlocked state of Afghanistan would have few options.

The tripartite agreement resolved that problem and increased India’s significance in Afghanistan. With India’s access via Chabahar, the viability of maintaining Afghanistan as a state under current dispensation, with minimal US presence, exponentially increases and there is considerable risk reduction. The joint Indian and US strategic interests in Afghanistan aim at the dilution of Pakistani influence and capability.

For the US the option of India in control is far more positive than leaving this to the stranglehold of China, Russia and Pakistan with the latter continuing to improve relations with Iran. For the Afghan NUG, this is as blissful a situation as it can expect with reduction of dependence on Pakistan and an avenue open to trade and assistance from India.

The Indian firm India Ports Global Limited has formally taken over operations at the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. The routes for trade and transit corridors between the three countries have been finalised but this will remain work in progress as subsequent infrastructure caters for railway connectivity and eventual linkage to the INSTC.

While India has successfully completed a major geostrategic venture on one flank of the Persian Gulf, it needs to be mindful of the fact that its interests are divided on both sides of the Gulf. That is where the last few years of straddling diplomacy, which the Ministry of External Affairs has done with a fair degree of aplomb, will hopefully pay a dividend. India remains one of those unique countries which the Prime Minister of Israel and the President of Iran visited within two weeks of each other.

India has long and extremely important relationships with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait which are as strategic as any of its relationships. The world of multilateralism is a sphere in which India is getting increasingly competent. That is why it needs to believe that Chabahar is the opening to the long-awaited strategic and civilisational relationship with Iran which need not be at the cost of the same which must be pursued with the Arab Gulf countries with equal vigour. 2018 was a good year for this, 2019 promises to be better.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-iran-a-port-of-call-for-india-2704295">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Chabahar is back in the news after a hiatus of about two years. The contexts of its importance are several but the first one in the current milieu is the fact that despite President Donald Trump’s avowed sanctions on everything related to Iran, India’s Chabahar-based relationship with Tehran has received a waiver.

Chabahar is back in the news after a hiatus of about two years. The contexts of its importance are several but the first one in the current milieu is the fact that despite President Donald Trump’s avowed sanctions on everything related to Iran, India’s Chabahar-based relationship with Tehran has received a waiver. That puts on course the fructification of efforts which commenced many summers ago but got an impetus with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tehran in May 2016, leading to the signing of the trilateral tripartite agreement between India, Iran and Afghanistan. The US provided an “exception” from certain sanctions, to the Iranian port of Chabahar that India has developed and used for reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan. This exemption is in addition to temporary freedom from sanctions that the US announced for India and seven major importers of Iranian crude oil. Why is Chabahar strategically important, for India, the US, Iran and Afghanistan? That will answer many questions. It starts with the fact that its geostrategic location, outside the Persian Gulf and yet on the Iranian coastline, puts it slightly out of harm’s way in the event of the Straits of Hormuz being forcibly closed; although, it is well appreciated that such a closure will no doubt presuppose an adverse effect on all of Iran’s port facilities. To access Central Asia, often referred to as the heart of Asia, and Afghanistan, there are only two routes from the Indian Ocean. The first is from Pakistan’s Gwadar or Karachi ports and the second is from Chabahar which lies on the southeastern coast of Iran in the Sistan-Baluchistan province. Why the US agreed to waive sanctions for activities connected with the development of the port is simply because India is the nation providing alternatives for establishing communication arteries to Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan. For 17 years, the US has fought in Afghanistan and depended on a single artery for its logistics; through Karachi and Pakistan-Baluchistan into Afghan territory. Due to its animosity with Iran, the clearly viable alternative via Chabahar through Iranian territory, to West Afghanistan could not be exploited. The lack of development of Chabahar placed Afghanistan in a predicament because of its reliance on Karachi with all strings in the hands of none-too-friendly Pakistan. India’s stakes in Afghanistan being high, the realization perhaps came late that Chabahar had serious transformational strategic potential to bypass Pakistan. Once India demonstrated its deep interest and the tripartite agreement with Iran and Afghanistan was signed in mid-2016, the movement of a consignment of wheat from Kandla port in Gujarat to Kabul via Chabahar went through smoothly; that experiment spurred further movement on Chabahar. With portents of conflict termination in Afghanistan, the US too realised the important role India could play at this stage, such that all eggs were not in Pakistan’s basket. Otherwise all Pakistan needed to do in order to bring down the Afghan National Unity Government (NUG) was to establish a blockade from Karachi and the landlocked state of Afghanistan would have few options. The tripartite agreement resolved that problem and increased India’s significance in Afghanistan. With India’s access via Chabahar, the viability of maintaining Afghanistan as a state under current dispensation, with minimal US presence, exponentially increases and there is considerable risk reduction. The joint Indian and US strategic interests in Afghanistan aim at the dilution of Pakistani influence and capability. For the US the option of India in control is far more positive than leaving this to the stranglehold of China, Russia and Pakistan with the latter continuing to improve relations with Iran. For the Afghan NUG, this is as blissful a situation as it can expect with reduction of dependence on Pakistan and an avenue open to trade and assistance from India. The Indian firm India Ports Global Limited has formally taken over operations at the Shahid Beheshti port in Chabahar. The routes for trade and transit corridors between the three countries have been finalised but this will remain work in progress as subsequent infrastructure caters for railway connectivity and eventual linkage to the INSTC. While India has successfully completed a major geostrategic venture on one flank of the Persian Gulf, it needs to be mindful of the fact that its interests are divided on both sides of the Gulf. That is where the last few years of straddling diplomacy, which the Ministry of External Affairs has done with a fair degree of aplomb, will hopefully pay a dividend. India remains one of those unique countries which the Prime Minister of Israel and the President of Iran visited within two weeks of each other. India has long and extremely important relationships with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait which are as strategic as any of its relationships. The world of multilateralism is a sphere in which India is getting increasingly competent. That is why it needs to believe that Chabahar is the opening to the long-awaited strategic and civilisational relationship with Iran which need not be at the cost of the same which must be pursued with the Arab Gulf countries with equal vigour. 2018 was a good year for this, 2019 promises to be better. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Iran: A port of call for India

Oman described Israel as an accepted Middle East state on Saturday, a day after hosting a surprise visit by its prime minister that Washington said could help regional peace efforts.

Oman is offering ideas to help Israel and the Palestinians to come together but is not acting as mediator, Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, the sultanate’s minister responsible for foreign affairs, told a security summit in Bahrain.

"Israel is a state present in the region, and we all understand this," bin Alawi said.

"The world is also aware of this fact. Maybe it is time for Israel to be treated the same [as others states] and also bear the same obligations."

His comments followed a rare visit to Oman by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu which came days after Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas paid a three-day visit to the Gulf country. Both leaders met with Oman's Sultan Qaboos.

"We are not saying that the road is now easy and paved with flowers, but our priority is to put an end to the conflict and move to a new world," bin Alawi told the summit.

Oman is relying on the United States and efforts by President Donald Trump in working towards the "deal of the century" (Middle East peace), he added.

Bahrain's foreign minister Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa voiced support for Oman over the sultanate's role in trying to secure Israeli-Palestinian peace, while Saudi Arabia's foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir said the kingdom believes the key to normalising relations with Israel was the peace process.

The three-day summit was attended by Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. US&nbsp;Defence Secretary Jim Mattis, and his counterparts in Italy and Germany also participated, but Jordan's King Abdullah cancelled his appearance after a flood that hit the Dead Sea region killed 21 people.

Trump’s Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt welcomed the "warming ties &amp; growing cooperation between our regional friends" in a tweet late on Friday.

"This is a helpful step for our peace efforts &amp; essential to create an atmosphere of stability, security &amp; prosperity between Israelis, Palestinians &amp; their neighbours. Looking forward to seeing more meetings like this!” Greenblatt said.

CURBING IRAN

Israel and some Gulf states share an interest in curbing Iran's influence in the region.

Oman has long been to the Middle East what neutral Switzerland is to global diplomacy. The country helped to mediate secret US-Iran talks in 2013 that led to the historic nuclear deal signed in Geneva two years later.

Earlier this year, bin Alawi visited Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque and Netanyahu has on several occasions hinted at warmer ties with Gulf states.

He told Israel's parliament last week that due to fears of a nuclear threat from Iran, "Israel and other Arab countries are closer than they ever were before."

Though uncommon, Israeli leaders have previously visited the Gulf state.

In 1996, the late Shimon Peres went to Oman and Qatar when he was prime minister and opened Israel trade representative offices in both Gulf countries.

His predecessor, the late Yitzhak Rabin, made the first trip to Oman in 1994.

On his visit on Friday, Netanyahu was accompanied by senior officials, including the head of the Mossad intelligence agency and his national security adviser.

Oman described Israel as an accepted Middle East state on Saturday, a day after hosting a surprise visit by its prime minister that Washington said could help regional peace efforts.

Oman described Israel as an accepted Middle East state on Saturday, a day after hosting a surprise visit by its prime minister that Washington said could help regional peace efforts. Oman is offering ideas to help Israel and the Palestinians to come together but is not acting as mediator, Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, the sultanate’s minister responsible for foreign affairs, told a security summit in Bahrain. "Israel is a state present in the region, and we all understand this," bin Alawi said. "The world is also aware of this fact. Maybe it is time for Israel to be treated the same [as others states] and also bear the same obligations." His comments followed a rare visit to Oman by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu which came days after Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas paid a three-day visit to the Gulf country. Both leaders met with Oman's Sultan Qaboos. "We are not saying that the road is now easy and paved with flowers, but our priority is to put an end to the conflict and move to a new world," bin Alawi told the summit. Oman is relying on the United States and efforts by President Donald Trump in working towards the "deal of the century" (Middle East peace), he added. Bahrain's foreign minister Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa voiced support for Oman over the sultanate's role in trying to secure Israeli-Palestinian peace, while Saudi Arabia's foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir said the kingdom believes the key to normalising relations with Israel was the peace process. The three-day summit was attended by Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis, and his counterparts in Italy and Germany also participated, but Jordan's King Abdullah cancelled his appearance after a flood that hit the Dead Sea region killed 21 people. Trump’s Middle East envoy Jason Greenblatt welcomed the "warming ties & growing cooperation between our regional friends" in a tweet late on Friday. "This is a helpful step for our peace efforts & essential to create an atmosphere of stability, security & prosperity between Israelis, Palestinians & their neighbours. Looking forward to seeing more meetings like this!” Greenblatt said. CURBING IRAN Israel and some Gulf states share an interest in curbing Iran's influence in the region. Oman has long been to the Middle East what neutral Switzerland is to global diplomacy. The country helped to mediate secret US-Iran talks in 2013 that led to the historic nuclear deal signed in Geneva two years later. Earlier this year, bin Alawi visited Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque and Netanyahu has on several occasions hinted at warmer ties with Gulf states. He told Israel's parliament last week that due to fears of a nuclear threat from Iran, "Israel and other Arab countries are closer than they ever were before." Though uncommon, Israeli leaders have previously visited the Gulf state. In 1996, the late Shimon Peres went to Oman and Qatar when he was prime minister and opened Israel trade representative offices in both Gulf countries. His predecessor, the late Yitzhak Rabin, made the first trip to Oman in 1994. On his visit on Friday, Netanyahu was accompanied by senior officials, including the head of the Mossad intelligence agency and his national security adviser.

Oman says time to accept Israel in region, offers help for peace

After heavy floods in Cuba, US and Oman it has now been reported that Britan has now been hit by flash floods with forecasters announcing 'danger to life.'

More than 20 warnings have been given for the Midlands region as huge storms made their way. A prominent route in Birmingham was filled with water up to 5ft deep while&nbsp;homes were flooded and cars submerged in water in other areas.&nbsp;

Also, Highways England was forced to close a stretch of the M5 between Halesowen and Oldbury which had become flooded. Other places hit included&nbsp;eastbound Hagley Road in the Bearwood area, Harborne area of Birmingham.&nbsp;

There are high levels of floodwater and Highways England is working to re-open the road as soon as possible.

As per reports, warnings of rain and thunderstorms are in place this afternoon for East Anglia, London and the South East and the South West.

A total of 42 flood alerts were also issued for other areas, urging residents to be prepared for the possibility of flooding.

Meanwhile, as per reports temperatures could hit highs of 28C or 29C in the region.

Earlier, heavy rains and flooding made streets in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-ellicott-city-declared-on-state-of-emergency-due-to-massive-flooding-140225">Ellicott City, Maryland</a> look like a river. Maryland Governor Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/storm-alberto-drenches-cuba-on-the-way-to-the-usa-140208">Storm Alberto</a> lashed the western Cuban region of Artemisia on Sunday, swelling a nearby river and dumping up to 12 cm of rain in less than eight hours.

The Environment Agency has more than 20 flood warnings and more than 40 flood alerts in place covering much of Central Englan

After heavy floods in Cuba, US and Oman it has now been reported that Britan has now been hit by flash floods with forecasters announcing 'danger to life.' More than 20 warnings have been given for the Midlands region as huge storms made their way. A prominent route in Birmingham was filled with water up to 5ft deep while homes were flooded and cars submerged in water in other areas. Also, Highways England was forced to close a stretch of the M5 between Halesowen and Oldbury which had become flooded. Other places hit included eastbound Hagley Road in the Bearwood area, Harborne area of Birmingham. There are high levels of floodwater and Highways England is working to re-open the road as soon as possible. As per reports, warnings of rain and thunderstorms are in place this afternoon for East Anglia, London and the South East and the South West. A total of 42 flood alerts were also issued for other areas, urging residents to be prepared for the possibility of flooding. Meanwhile, as per reports temperatures could hit highs of 28C or 29C in the region. Earlier, heavy rains and flooding made streets in Ellicott City, Maryland look like a river. Maryland Governor Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency. Storm Alberto lashed the western Cuban region of Artemisia on Sunday, swelling a nearby river and dumping up to 12 cm of rain in less than eight hours.

Flash floods now hit UK after Cuba, US, Oman, forecasters announce 'danger to life'

According to reports, a police source in Oman today ruled out any suspicion of criminal activity in connection to Swedish DJ superstar Avicii's death.&nbsp;

DJ Avicii was found dead in Oman's capital city Muscat on Friday. His official death statement did not specify the cause of death.&nbsp;

A couple of autopsies were carried out, one on Friday and another one today which concluded no relation to criminal suspicion.&nbsp;

The police declined to make any public statements on the case.

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii. He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday afternoon local time, April 20th,” publicist Diana Baron said in a statement on Friday.

“The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given,” Baron further added.

Avicii was believed to be on a vacation in Oman. The 28-year-old music artist was world-renowned for his electronic music and was often touted as one of the most successful DJs.

The late Swedish artist was known to have struggled with a host of health issues including pancreatitis, a condition that is partly triggered due to excessive drinking.

Avicii announced retirement from touring a couple of years ago in the wake of recurring health issues. He started out releasing music in the late ‘00s. In 2011, he broke through to an international audience with the progressive house track "Levels," which became No. 1 on the charts and earned him a Grammy that year.

The police declined to make any more public statements on the case

According to reports, a police source in Oman today ruled out any suspicion of criminal activity in connection to Swedish DJ superstar Avicii's death. DJ Avicii was found dead in Oman's capital city Muscat on Friday. His official death statement did not specify the cause of death. A couple of autopsies were carried out, one on Friday and another one today which concluded no relation to criminal suspicion. The police declined to make any public statements on the case. “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii. He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday afternoon local time, April 20th,” publicist Diana Baron said in a statement on Friday. “The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given,” Baron further added. Avicii was believed to be on a vacation in Oman. The 28-year-old music artist was world-renowned for his electronic music and was often touted as one of the most successful DJs. The late Swedish artist was known to have struggled with a host of health issues including pancreatitis, a condition that is partly triggered due to excessive drinking. Avicii announced retirement from touring a couple of years ago in the wake of recurring health issues. He started out releasing music in the late ‘00s. In 2011, he broke through to an international audience with the progressive house track "Levels," which became No. 1 on the charts and earned him a Grammy that year.

DJ Avicii's death: Oman Police rules out criminal suspicion

India and Oman signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs), including pacts on tourism and military cooperation.

On Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s last destination of his four-nation tour, the MoUs signed during the visit to Oman`s Muscat were:

1) Agreement on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters.

2) Agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports.

3) MoU on cooperation in the field of Health.

4) MoU for cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space.

5) MoU on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman Diplomatic Institute.

6) MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation sectors between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

7) MoU in the field of Tourism Cooperation between India and Oman.

8) Annexure to the MoU on Military Cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Muscat on Sunday.On his arrival, the Prime Minister received a ceremonial reception at the Royal Airport by Sayyid Fahd Bin Mahmoud Al Said, the Deputy Prime Minister for Council of Ministers of Oman.Prime Minister Modi will return to India on February 12.&nbsp;

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Eight agreements signed between India and Oman including those on tourism cooperation &amp; military cooperation <a href="https://t.co/dd1YiyaTWn">pic.twitter.com/dd1YiyaTWn</a>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s last destination of his four-nation tour was Oman

India and Oman signed eight Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs), including pacts on tourism and military cooperation. On Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s last destination of his four-nation tour, the MoUs signed during the visit to Oman`s Muscat were: 1) Agreement on legal and judicial cooperation in civil and commercial matters. 2) Agreement on mutual visa exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service and official passports. 3) MoU on cooperation in the field of Health. 4) MoU for cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space. 5) MoU on cooperation between Foreign Service Institute, Ministry of External Affairs, India and Oman Diplomatic Institute. 6) MoU on academic and scholarly cooperation sectors between National Defence College, Sultanate of Oman and the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. 7) MoU in the field of Tourism Cooperation between India and Oman. 8) Annexure to the MoU on Military Cooperation. Prime Minister Modi arrived in Muscat on Sunday.On his arrival, the Prime Minister received a ceremonial reception at the Royal Airport by Sayyid Fahd Bin Mahmoud Al Said, the Deputy Prime Minister for Council of Ministers of Oman.Prime Minister Modi will return to India on February 12. Eight agreements signed between India and Oman including those on tourism cooperation & military cooperation pic.twitter.com/dd1YiyaTWn — ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2018 ×

India, Oman sign eight MoUs

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