Iran Accuses Saudi Of ‘Blocking’ Crucial Hormuz Talks; Gulf Oil Crisis Deepens

Iran has accused Saudi Arabia of requesting the postponement of an important regional meeting intended to address security and navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign ministers from Iran, Iraq and several Gulf countries had been expected to meet in Salalah, Oman. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Riyadh asked for the gathering not to proceed “for the time being.” Saudi Arabia has not confirmed that account or publicly explained the alleged request. Oman said the meeting was postponed to create conditions for constructive dialogue. Meanwhile, Tehran says it has finalised a separate maritime understanding with Muscat. The diplomatic setback comes as pressure builds around both Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, while damage to Saudi Arabia’s East-West Pipeline threatens Riyadh’s ability to sustain Red Sea oil exports.