Oman not to mediate between Syria and Israel

Omani Minister of Information Abdul Aziz al-Ruwas has asserted that the change in the Israeli attitude towards the peace process under the government of Ehud Barak, is a set precondition to resume contacts between Muscat and Israel.

He told the London based al-Hayat daily, "Everything is linked to Israel acts on the ground, rather than statements."

The Omani minister added that there are "positive indicators that raise optimism" for reviving the Middle East peace process after Ehud Barak's government assumes its mission. But he asserted the importance of "monitoring what is taking place on the ground."

He said, "The world expects from Israel to implement the agreements and to abide by reviving the Middle East peace process and giving it a push forward according to the land-for-peace formula."

Replying to a question on whether Oman is mediating between Israel and Syria, the Omani minister denied asked, "How do we make mediation while we are partners with Syria?"

Oman closed down its trade representation office in Tel Aviv due to the crisis of starting settlement in Abu Ghneim mountain in East Jerusalem. Then, Oman decided to freeze normalization with Israel, including the activity of the Israeli trade representative office in Muscat, which was not closed.