ALBAWABA- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi arrived in Muscat on Thursday for a private fraternal visit, where he was received with full ceremonial honors by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman at the Royal Airport.
The visit underscores close ties between Cairo and Muscat and comes amid intensified regional diplomatic efforts over the escalating US-Iran crisis.
During talks at Al Baraka Palace, the two leaders discussed regional political, security, and economic developments, with particular focus on the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. Both sides exchanged views on the need to advance negotiations toward a durable agreement through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
They also stressed the importance of de-escalation in the region and safeguarding maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, in line with international law and global security principles.
The discussions followed a telephone call between the two leaders on Wednesday, in which they emphasised the “imperative need” for a sustainable diplomatic resolution to the crisis.
According to official statements, the talks focus on moving from a fragile ceasefire framework toward a lasting political settlement, stabilising maritime routes affected by competing restrictions and naval activity, and preventing a return to large-scale hostilities that erupted earlier in 2026.
Oman has played a long-standing mediating role in regional crises, often acting as a trusted intermediary between Washington and Tehran. Its neutral foreign policy and established diplomatic channels have positioned it as a key facilitator of indirect negotiations, including past discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme.
Egypt has also intensified coordination with Oman and regional partners in recent months to support diplomatic de-escalation efforts. President el-Sisi’s visit follows his recent stop in Abu Dhabi, where he met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reflecting broader Egyptian engagement with Gulf states amid rising regional tensions.
