UK and Oman pledge to strengthen ties through energy, defense, and technology cooperation
Europe, Middle East, News August 1, 2025 Comments Off on UK and Oman pledge to strengthen ties through energy, defense, and technology cooperation3 minute read
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said met in London on July 30, 2025, to strengthen cooperation in energy, defense, security, and technology, according to a statement from Downing Street.
The bilateral discussions also touched on wider regional issues and trade relations, including ongoing negotiations for a UK-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) free trade agreement in the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Both leaders emphasized the urgency of delivering humanitarian assistance to Gaza. In their talks, they expressed concern about the ongoing humanitarian crisis and said the situation “cannot continue.”
A Downing Street spokesperson said, “The Prime Minister updated His Majesty on his conversations with other leaders in recent days, and both agreed on the need for a longer-term peace plan, which includes a pathway to recognition.” The comment signals growing support within the UK government for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Palestinian state recognition in focus
The meeting came a day after Prime Minister Starmer stated that the UK would formally recognize a Palestinian state in September unless Israel demonstrates clear efforts to de-escalate the war in Gaza and move toward a peace agreement.
This policy shift reflects mounting domestic and international pressure on the British government to play a more active role in efforts to resolve the crisis.
Regional diplomacy also featured in the talks. Starmer thanked Sultan Haitham for Oman’s continued role in trying to mediate with Iran, particularly in efforts to prevent regional conflict.
“Oman has consistently played a backchannel diplomatic role in engaging Iran, and the UK sees Muscat’s efforts as vital to regional stability,” the spokesperson noted.
UK-GCC trade agreement
The leaders reviewed progress on the UK-GCC trade negotiations. While no new commitments were announced, both sides reiterated their support for finalizing an agreement that boosts trade and investment flows across a range of sectors, including energy transition, digital infrastructure, and sustainable development.
The proposed deal is part of the UK’s broader strategy to deepen post-Brexit ties with Gulf nations and diversify its economic partnerships.
Broader UK-Oman strategic alignment
The meeting underlines a growing strategic alignment between London and Muscat, especially in the fields of defense cooperation and technology exchange. The UK and Oman have maintained a strong security relationship, with joint military exercises and intelligence sharing forming key pillars of bilateral ties.
By expanding collaboration into clean energy and emerging technologies, the two sides aim to modernize their partnership in line with new global challenges.
The talks come at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza and the Red Sea, where instability has threatened trade and energy routes. Oman’s diplomatic outreach, especially with Iran and Yemen, positions it as a critical interlocutor in British regional policy.
Meanwhile, Starmer’s move toward recognizing Palestine signals a more assertive UK stance in the Israel-Palestine conflict, which could reshape its relations with both Gulf states and Israel in the coming months.
Related Articles
IRIA Exclusive
IRIA Publications
Regions
