AGP Executive Report

US-Iran Diplomacy: Qatar says indirect US-Iran talks in Doha delivered “positive progress,” with the next round set after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral and plans for a communication channel to log MoU violations. Strait of Hormuz & Shipping: CENTCOM’s 12-nation security dialogue in Bahrain stressed keeping commerce flowing through Hormuz as Yemen’s port imports fell sharply and fuel/food pressures worsen. Qatar-US Relations: Qatar’s mediation continues amid US-Iran tensions, while separate meetings and Hormuz disputes keep the deal fragile. Saudi Food Security: Saudi Arabia issued a tender for 655,000 tons of wheat for Red Sea ports, avoiding Hormuz-linked routes. UAE Economy & Housing: UAE real estate stays robust as central bank data shows strong Abu Dhabi and Dubai transaction growth. Energy & Industry: Webuild began operations at an Aramco water treatment plant in Saudi Arabia; EGA reports faster restoration progress at Al Taweelah after attack damage. Kuwait Energy Finance: KPC is seeking consortia for a roughly $7bn pipeline stake sale, with Blackstone among bidders. Sports & Culture: Saudi and Pakistan cricket boards signed an MoU to build an international stadium in Jeddah; Qatar opened the Qatar Toy Festival in Doha.

US–Iran Diplomacy in Qatar: Indirect US-Iran talks are underway in Doha under Qatari mediation, with Vice President JD Vance saying discussions on Strait of Hormuz issues are going “well” and Washington won’t return to full combat unless necessary; Iran’s deputy foreign minister says a communication channel will be set up to log violations of the interim MoU. Kuwait Oil Retail Upgrade: Kuwait opened its first Q8-branded fuel station in Riqqa under a five-site rollout, as Kuwait Petroleum Corporation pushes downstream modernization and higher service standards. Kuwait Health Crackdown: Kuwait’s health ministry shut down two physiotherapy/rehab centers and a clinic over licensing and referral violations, while launching a World Paramedics Day awareness campaign. Yemen Health & Trade Pressure: WHO reports 4,814 new suspected cholera/AWD cases in Yemen’s internationally recognized government areas since Jan 1 to May 31; UNCTAD warns fragile economies, including Yemen, still face food and fuel shocks despite Strait of Hormuz reopening. Qatar Infrastructure Spotlight: Lusail district cooling system earns Guinness world records for the largest network and the longest chilled-water storage tank. Saudi–Pakistan Security Ties: Saudi and Pakistan signed an MoU to strengthen security cooperation, including training and research links between interior ministries.

U.S.-Iran Mediation in Qatar: Doha is hosting indirect U.S.-Iran talks under Qatari mediation, with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner meeting mediators but no direct U.S.-Iran meetings reported as Iran insists it will only engage Qatari channels. Strait of Hormuz Fees: Iran and Oman are pushing ahead with plans to collect transit fees from ships through the Strait of Hormuz despite U.S. objections, keeping shipping and energy markets on edge. Kuwait-Iran Tensions: Kuwait’s cabinet condemned renewed Iranian military aggressions, put forces on peak readiness, and froze unapproved state consulting contracts. Saudi Power Storage Push: Saudi Arabia prequalified 27 firms for 12,000 MWh (4-hour) battery storage projects, advancing a major grid and renewables integration drive. Oman Green Industry: Meranti Green Steel named L&T for FEED on a 2.5 Mtpa green iron project in Duqm. Qatar Investment Snapshot: Qatar reported $3.4bn FDI capex in 2025 across 373 projects, with greenfield and tech-heavy deals leading. UAE Social Safety & Policy: Kuwait is debating a UAE-style social media ban for children under 15, while the UAE prepares multiple July policy shifts.

US-Iran Mediation in Qatar: Trump envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived in Doha to meet Qatari mediators on implementing an Iran-US MoU, but Qatar says there will be no direct US-Iran talks and no high-level meeting scheduled; Iran also denies any US sit-down, saying Doha talks are only with Qatar on frozen assets. Frozen Assets: Iran’s foreign ministry says discussions in Doha will focus on releasing restricted funds, while Qatar says $6bn in frozen Iranian assets has not yet been transferred. Strait of Hormuz: Qatar reiterates freedom of navigation as talks continue, with Hormuz safety and maritime passage coordinated with Oman. Kuwait-Saudi Solidarity: Saudi Arabia’s cabinet condemned Iranian attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain and reaffirmed support for sovereignty and freedom of navigation. Kuwait-China Tech Push: China’s ambassador in Kuwait pledged deeper strategic partnership, while Kuwait signals expanded cooperation with China in science and technology. Qatar Infrastructure & Health: Qatar awards $604m for power grid expansion and launches a cardiac surgery program in northwestern Syria via Qatar Red Crescent. UAE Rail Milestone: Etihad Rail begins the UAE’s first passenger service, marking a major infrastructure push.

U.S.-Iran Qatar talks amid Hormuz strain: Washington and Tehran both say delegations are heading to Qatar this week, but they clash on whether direct U.S.-Iran meetings will happen, as a fragile pause follows weekend attacks and the Strait of Hormuz remains central to the dispute. Oman-Hormuz demining stance: Oman’s foreign minister told France that responsibility for mine hazards in the strait “primarily rests with Iran,” while Oman says it’s open to help if asked. UAE transport milestone: Etihad Rail launched the UAE’s first national passenger service, running Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, with fares starting at AED 55 and multiple services planned as the network expands. UAE fuel prices: UAE petrol and diesel prices are set to drop in July as global crude benchmarks ease. Qatar energy and tourism: QatarEnergy set July fuel prices (premium up, super unchanged), while Qatar reported 1.13m visitors in Q1 and expects summer growth. Bahrain trade and UN complaint: Bahrain says exports topped $1.3bn as firms reached 102 markets, and it filed a UN complaint over Iranian drone strikes. UAE-Ukraine CEPA: The UAE says its CEPA with Ukraine took effect, cutting duties on most goods and exports. Saudi football shake-up: Saudi FA president Yasser Al-Misehal resigned after the World Cup group-stage exit. Qatar security for World Cup: Qatari security forces reiterated their role in FIFA World Cup preparations within approved frameworks.

Hormuz Tensions & Diplomacy: Oman and Iran held the first joint committee meeting in Muscat on future Strait of Hormuz management, stressing coordination under international law and discussing navigation and maritime services. Maritime Safety Moves: Qatar suspended maritime navigation and marine activities as a precaution after a shrapnel-linked death and injury tied to regional military operations. US-Iran Qatar Talks: Trump says a US-Iran meeting requested by Iran will take place in Qatar Tuesday, while Tehran denies any US talks in the coming days and says an Iranian technical delegation will focus on implementing the MoU. Frozen Funds: Iran’s president said $6bn in frozen assets held in Qatar will be released, as negotiations face strain amid renewed attacks. France-Oman De-mining: Macron said France and Oman will work with partners on mine clearance in the strait to secure free passage. Kuwait Domestic Reform & Projects: Kuwait’s justice minister hailed progress on modernizing criminal trials law, while the Al-Na’ayem industrial city project targets full completion by 2032. Kuwait-Lebanon Security Ties: Kuwait’s interior minister met Lebanon’s counterpart to expand bilateral security cooperation. Qatar Tourism Pulse: Qatar reported 1.13mn visitors in Q1 and is bracing for a stronger summer season. Saudi Crash Probe: Saudi authorities launched an investigation after an AW139 helicopter crash killed 14 near Ras Tanura.

US-Iran De-escalation: The US and Iran agreed to stop “kinetic activity” and meet Tuesday in Qatar to resolve the Strait of Hormuz dispute, after days of strikes that disrupted shipping. Bahrain UN Push: Bahrain urged the UN Security Council to hold Iran accountable for drone and missile attacks, citing violations of UN resolutions and the June 17 Islamabad MoU. Hormuz Governance Talks: Iran and Oman held the first joint committee meeting in Muscat on future Strait management and coastal-state rights. Qatar-Russia Link: Qatar and Russia signed an MoU to set up a direct crisis communication channel. Saudi Crash Probe: Saudi authorities are investigating a fatal Saudi Aramco AW139 helicopter crash that killed all 14 aboard near Ras Tanura. Regional Diplomacy: Kuwait and Ukraine brought a defense cooperation agreement into force after Kuwait completed legal steps. Energy & Trade: Oman LNG launched its first shipment aboard the new “Muscat LNG” carrier, while Oman expands electric trucking and port electrification to cut emissions. Development Aid: IsDB and KFAED signed a US$1m grant for Yemen’s technical and vocational education institute in Turbah.

Gulf Security Escalation: Kuwait says it intercepted two hostile ballistic missiles in its airspace as Iran’s renewed drone and missile attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain draw fresh regional condemnation. Maritime Incident: Qatar’s Interior Ministry reports a Qatari citizen was killed and an Arab resident injured after a vessel was hit by shrapnel linked to ongoing military operations; authorities say investigations continue. Saudi Crash: Saudi Aramco helicopter crash in Ras Tanura killed all 14 people onboard; Saudi officials say a probe is underway, while UAE, Pakistan, and other partners sent condolences. Diplomacy & De-escalation: Saudi Crown Prince and France’s Macron discussed regional developments and the US-Iran MoU, stressing freedom of navigation and diplomatic efforts. Humanitarian Outreach: Qatar’s search-and-rescue team has begun missions in Venezuela after major earthquakes, joining international responders. Sports & Culture: Qatar will host the eFIBA World Finals (July 3-4) and Kuwait Club clinched a record fifth straight league title as the season ends. Business & Policy: Oman tightens anti-bribery rules for the private sector, and Kuwait expands labor transfer procedures for restricted sectors via an online portal.

Gulf Security Crisis: Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed missile and drone strikes on Kuwait and Bahrain, saying they hit US-linked sites, as both Gulf states reported air-defense interceptions and Bahrain said a residential building in Muharraq was damaged with no deaths. Ceasefire Strain: The renewed attacks followed US strikes on Iranian targets tied to shipping incidents near the Strait of Hormuz, with Washington and Tehran trading accusations of ceasefire violations and President Trump warning escalation could resume. Regional Condemnation: The GCC Secretary-General and Qatar and Kuwait condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty and urged de-escalation and UN action. Kuwait Defense Update: Kuwait said it intercepted two “hostile” ballistic missiles entering its airspace, while Bahrain said it destroyed several incoming missiles and drones. Qatar Domestic & Economy: Qatar highlighted family cohesion research, while its ICT market is projected to more than double to QR137.63bn by 2031; Qatar also reported judicial digitisation cutting average case duration to 38 days. Diplomacy & Tech: Qatar joined FATF meetings in Paris, and the UAE and Qatar pushed AI and tech cooperation at the Pax Silica Summit in Washington. Humanitarian Outreach: Qatar’s search-and-rescue teams joined Venezuela earthquake response efforts.

Iran-U.S. Gulf Tensions: Iran launched drones at Bahrain and a ship was hit in the Strait of Hormuz after U.S. strikes on Iranian drone sites, with Bahrain calling it a “flagrant” threat and Gulf states urging de-escalation and full freedom of navigation. Diplomacy & Messaging: Qatar’s PM and foreign minister held calls with Saudi and Egypt, stressing dialogue and restraint after the U.S.-Iran memorandum, while Saudi, Egypt and Qatar condemned the Bahrain attacks and maritime threats. Oman-Hormuz Dispute: A diplomatic fight over wording continues as Oman and Iran discuss future administration of navigation and related services and costs, even as ships keep using the Oman route. Sudan Humanitarian Concern: Qatar and the UAE condemned escalation in El Obeid and urged humanitarian corridors, truce and civilian-led political steps. Qatar Aid Abroad: Qatar’s search-and-rescue team and relief supplies arrived in Venezuela to support quake response. Kuwait Domestic: Kuwait denied a social-media rumor about receiving 45 vehicles as a donation, while CAPT opened tenders for highway sand removal with 19 firms bidding. Yemen Landmines: A 15-year-old boy was killed by a Houthi landmine in Al-Bayda, underscoring ongoing civilian danger.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran and the U.S. traded strikes again after a drone attack on a ship near Oman, with Bahrain accusing Tehran of targeting its territory and a tanker also reported hit in the strait; the U.S. Navy-linked maritime body said a route near Oman is expanding to handle more traffic, underscoring how fast the situation is shifting. Bahrain-Iran Escalation: Manama condemned the drone assault as a sovereignty violation, while Iran said it struck U.S.-linked targets in “defensive” retaliation, as both sides accuse each other of breaching a ceasefire framework. UAE Diplomacy & Safety: Abu Dhabi urged Iran to fully comply with the U.S.-Iran interim deal and keep Hormuz navigation open, while also apologizing after a technical glitch triggered a false missile warning. Sudan UN Pressure: The UAE pressed for an immediate humanitarian truce in Sudan at the UN Security Council, as the U.S. announced fresh sanctions tied to chemical weapons allegations. Yemen Protest Scrutiny: UK MPs raised concern over violence against southern Yemeni protesters, calling for independent investigations and accountability. Saudi Policy Moves: Saudi tightened gold declaration rules for travelers and approved a law to manage seized assets in money-laundering and terrorism cases.

UAE Mediation: Abu Dhabi says it helped Russia and Ukraine swap another 320 prisoners—160 each—bringing UAE-mediated releases to 7,791, as the UAE reiterates its push for a peaceful, humanitarian end to the war. Persian Gulf Security: The U.S. says it struck Iranian military sites after an alleged drone attack on a cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz, while the UAE and Iran trade warnings and diplomacy amid rising shipping anxiety. Hormuz Shipping: The IMO-linked evacuation effort for seafarers was paused after a vessel was hit near Oman, and officials say traffic is improving but route safety remains unclear. UAE False Missile Alert: Dubai residents were briefly hit with an incoming missile warning, then told to disregard it; authorities blamed a technical malfunction and apologized. Qatar Diplomacy: Qatar marked International Day of Women in Diplomacy, highlighting women’s roles in its diplomatic work and international engagement. Qatar LNG Markets: LNG prices stayed elevated even as some Gulf tankers resumed movement, with damaged facilities and summer demand risks still weighing on normalization. World Cup Focus (Gulf Teams): Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia meet in Group H in a must-win clash in Houston, with both sides still chasing knockout qualification. Drug Bust (Saudi): Saudi authorities say they seized 25 million illicit pills and over 1 ton of drugs, targeting smuggling networks. Kuwait Crackdown: Kuwait arrested a Bangladeshi expatriate after intercepting narcotics-soaked papers in a shipment, with investigations pointing to an overseas handler.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: The UN’s IMO paused its Strait of Hormuz ship evacuation plan after a vessel was hit off Oman, while Iran and Oman kept trading positions on future management and maritime services—both sides stressing navigation must stay free of tolls. GCC-US Alignment: In Bahrain, GCC foreign ministers with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio backed the US-Iran MoU but said any future arrangements must protect GCC security and reject fees or control over international waters. Humanitarian Relief: UAE medics on the floating hospital in Egypt carried out four more complex surgeries for Gaza patients under Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. Qatar Airways & Trade: Qatar Airways resumes flights to Canberra from December, and Qatar’s QSE ended a volatile week down 2.18% as investors awaited Q2 earnings. Energy Watch: Saudi Aramco restarted oil loading at Ras Tanura as Hormuz shipments resumed, even as an attack near Oman kept maritime risk in focus. Yemen Press Freedom: A Yemeni journalist for Al Arabiya/Al Hadath was killed in a car bombing in Mukalla; authorities launched an investigation. Saudi Security: Saudi authorities seized 1.4 million amphetamine pills hidden in industrial machinery, arresting four suspects.

Hormuz Diplomacy: US and GCC foreign ministers in Bahrain urged reopening the Strait of Hormuz for “free, unconditional, and unrestricted” navigation, rejecting any tolls or attempts to control the waterway, while welcoming Oman and the IMO’s plan to evacuate over 11,000 stranded mariners—though the IMO later paused the effort after a vessel was hit near Oman. Maritime Tensions: Iran warned ships using unauthorized routes would not get safety guarantees, as UKMTO reported a cargo ship damaged by an unknown projectile off Oman’s coast and Iran-Oman talks continued on future strait administration. Kuwait Security & Courts: Kuwait’s anti-narcotics drive seized 323kg of drugs and arrested 1,564 suspects in six months; meanwhile, Kuwait’s appeals court upheld sedition and Hezbollah-related sentences and overturned some drug-case rulings over urine-test procedure disputes. Qatar-US Mediation: US experts credited Qatar’s mediation with helping secure a US-Iran ceasefire and reopening Hormuz shipping. Saudi Health Measures: Saudi suspended travel and visas for citizens linked to Ebola-hit DRC, Uganda and South Sudan. Sports: Bosnia beat Qatar 3-1 to reach the World Cup knockout stage, ending Qatar’s campaign.

GCC-US Diplomacy: GCC foreign ministers met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Bahrain, pressing that any future regional arrangements must protect Gulf security interests, maritime freedom and state sovereignty, as Washington tries to reassure allies about the US-Iran framework. Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran and the UAE traded sharp messages over Hormuz security, while Iran’s IRGC Navy rejected Oman’s proposed safe transit route, warning of safety risks; GCC leaders also highlighted the need to safeguard navigation. UAE Cyber Push: The UAE Cybersecurity Council, with AWS and CrowdStrike, wrapped up a government-backed accelerator that selected 23 startups to help build a wider cybersecurity startup pipeline. UAE Transport Milestone: Etihad Rail opened passenger bookings for its June 30 Abu Dhabi–Fujairah launch with 50% launch fares from Dh55. Qatar Energy & Policy: Qatar urged the EU to clarify and amend its methane rules for energy security, as Qatar also said LNG output should return to normal within weeks. Oman Renewables: Oman’s Nama PWP launched an RFQ for 1.5GW of solar projects, including battery storage, to support Vision 2040. Qatar Sports: FIFA suspended Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo for five matches after a tackle injured Canada’s Ismael Kone; meanwhile Bosnia beat Qatar 3-1 to keep World Cup hopes alive. Yemen Press Freedom: A journalist for Al-Arabiya and Al-Hadath, Mohammed Eidah, was killed in Al-Mukalla after an explosive device attack.

World Cup Shock in Group B: Bosnia and Herzegovina beat Qatar 3-1 in Seattle, with 18-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic scoring the opener and Edin Dzeko marking his 150th cap; Qatar were eliminated after earlier defeats, while Bosnia moved closer to the knockout round. Qatar Discipline: FIFA banned Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo for five matches after a tackle injured Canada’s Ismael Kone, who underwent surgery for a broken leg. Ras Laffan Solidarity: Kuwait’s cabinet voiced solidarity with Qatar after the deadly LNG facility explosion at Ras Laffan, as officials also briefed on missing-person and property-return follow-ups. Gulf Diplomacy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Kuwait’s Amir, with the US saying it is aligned with Gulf allies on regional security; the US embassy in Kuwait resumed operations during Rubio’s visit. Hormuz Focus: Qatar’s PM said a US-Iran hotline is key to prevent “rogue actors” from disrupting Strait of Hormuz reopening, while Oman announced temporary shipping corridors to support safe passage. Energy Policy Clash: The US and Qatar urged the EU to amend planned methane rules for gas imports, warning of supply risks. Aviation Safety: Regulators ordered urgent inspections of Airbus A380 wings after cracks were found, affecting Emirates and Qantas. UAE Travel Update: The Philippines’ DFA says Filipinos can get UAE visa-on-arrival from June 25 if they hold eligible US/EU/other visas or residence permits.