Oman’s New Trade Ban Sparks Fears of Sesame, Tahini, and Coffee Shortages in Israel

Oman has imposed a new trade ban preventing the entry of goods destined for Israel through its ports, raising concerns about shortages of tahini, sesame seeds, coffee, and cocoa in Israel. This move disrupts key supply routes from East Africa, particularly affecting imports from Ethiopia, which relies on transit ports like Djibouti and previously Oman’s Salalah port for shipments to Israel. The ban comes amid heightened regional tensions linked to the conflict with Iran, which has also blocked alternative routes through the Strait of Hormuz, further complicating logistics.

Major Israeli tahini producers, including Achva and Sogot, have already felt the impact, warning of potential product shortages despite assurances against price increases. The Israeli Foreign Ministry is engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis with Oman, but no breakthrough has been achieved yet. Meanwhile, Israeli companies are exploring alternative import routes via ports in Egypt and Cyprus to mitigate the disruption.

Oman’s decision marks a significant shift in regional relations, as the country was once a leading candidate to join the Abraham Accords and normalize ties with Israel. Official visits and near peace agreements had taken place in recent years, but the current political climate has deteriorated to the point of imposing an economic boycott that threatens essential food supplies in Israel.