AGP Executive Report

Gulf Escalation: Iran’s missile and drone attack on Kuwait International Airport killed at least one person and injured 63, damaging Terminal 1 and triggering flight suspensions and diversions; Kuwait later moved to partial reopen operations and Kuwait Airways resumed flights from Terminal 4. US-Iran Back-and-Forth: CENTCOM said it intercepted multiple Iranian threats over Kuwait and Bahrain and carried out defensive strikes, while Iran denied responsibility and claimed US-linked targets were hit. Bahrain Under Attack: Bahrain’s air defence intercepted three missiles and several drones, as officials warned of remnants and urged the public not to touch suspicious debris. Diplomatic Fallout: Kuwait expelled two Iranian diplomats and declared them persona non grata, while Bahrain arrested 15 people linked to Iranian IRGC-linked “inciting directives.” Regional Impact: Oil prices jumped on renewed Middle East fighting, and airlines including flydubai and Indian carriers suspended or adjusted Kuwait routes amid airspace closures. Humanitarian & Civil Life: Kuwait sent 40 tons of aid to Lebanon, while Bahrain’s leadership messaging emphasized unity and stability.

Gulf Security Shock: Iran’s drone strike hit Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1, causing “significant” damage and injuries, with Kuwait suspending air traffic and diverting flights while emergency teams assess repairs. Regional Escalation: Bahrain reported intercepting and destroying three missiles and several drones amid renewed attacks, as both sides trade blame and the US says it carried out “self-defence” strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island. Diplomatic Fallout: Iran’s foreign ministry accused Kuwait and Bahrain of enabling US operations and warned it would respond to future attacks, while Kuwait’s cabinet condemned the attacks as a threat to civilians and critical infrastructure. Nuclear Safety Watch: IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said an attack on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant was “carefully planned,” stressing such attacks are unacceptable and praising UAE preparedness. Qatar Economy & Society: Qatar’s General Tax Authority ran workshops for audit firms to boost tax compliance, while Qatar also pushed food security with 45 livestock production projects licensed in 2025. Culture & Business: Qatar designers debuted in North America at Fashion Art Toronto, and Mazad launched an eight-week Bahrain internship programme for digital marketplace careers.

Nuclear Security: IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says the UAE’s Barakah plant drone attack was “carefully targeted,” and the agency is now offering the UAE technical and moral support as repairs proceed, with officials saying the reactor was shut down after loss of external power. Regional Security: Bahrain has banned citizens from traveling to Iran and Iraq, citing escalating security risks, while prosecutors investigate an alleged network linked to Iran’s IRGC influence. Diplomacy: Qatar told the UN it will keep backing mediation and preventive diplomacy to de-escalate conflicts, warning global instability makes stronger diplomatic tools urgent. Gulf Politics: Foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and others condemned extremist Israeli settlers’ incursions into Al-Aqsa under Israeli protection, calling it a violation of international law. Humanitarian & Society: Saudi Red Crescent is running round-the-clock emergency medical support for pilgrims in Madinah. Economy & Markets: Pakistan’s State Bank expanded Naya Pakistan Certificates so overseas investors can buy in Saudi Riyal and UAE Dirham, with returns up to 7.50% for five-year terms. Sports & Culture: Saudi began the final phase of World Cup preparations in Austin, while Kuwait’s football league season is set to start Aug. 25.

Kuwait Security: Kuwait says three prison escapees were recaptured within 24 hours after a manhunt, with authorities also seizing two firearms and warning the public that security is a “red line.” US–Iran Tensions: The US reported strikes on Iranian radar and drone sites after an Iranian drone shootdown, while Kuwait reported incoming fire; Gulf states and officials renewed condemnation and calls for restraint. Oman–US Pressure: The Wall Street Journal reports Washington has no immediate plan to attack Oman, but is pressing Muscat to “choose a side” over alleged support for Iran. Qatar Diplomacy & Economy: Qatar’s PM spoke by phone with Iran’s foreign minister on mediation and Lebanon; Qatar ports handled 73,173 TEUs in May (+44% vs April), underscoring logistics momentum. Bahrain Justice & Society: A Bahrain court jailed a man for 10 years in a drug parcel case and ordered deportation; Bahrain also expanded humanitarian volunteer work via the Red Crescent. Oman Business: OMIFCO plans a Muscat IPO offering a 25% stake, with a July listing expected. UAE Sports: Andrés Iniesta was named head coach of UAE second-tier Gulf United in his first management role.

Gulf Security: Kuwait reported major missile and drone attacks overnight, with air defenses intercepting threats and emergency sirens sounding across the country, as Iran-US strikes and wider regional condemnation continued. Diplomacy & Nuclear Oversight: Kuwait’s foreign minister met the IAEA chief to discuss nuclear safety and peaceful energy cooperation, while Gulf states reiterated solidarity with Kuwait amid the escalation. Maritime Risk: A Panama-flagged cargo ship near the Iran-Iraq-Kuwait border was hit by an “unknown projectile,” adding to concerns over shipping safety in the Persian Gulf. Qatar Domestic Watch: Qatar temporarily shut three food outlets for food-safety violations and expanded weekend primary healthcare services. Bahrain Economy: Bahrain set June fuel prices and reaffirmed support for subsidized diesel for fishermen, while also exploring deeper financial ties with France. Regional Business & Tech: Oman’s FTA with India begins, boosting duty-free access, and Qatar rolled out a generative AI course for sports leaders. Sports Calendar: FIFA revealed the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026 group-stage schedule.

Kuwait-Iran Tensions: Kuwait reported repeated missile and drone attacks early Monday, with its air defences intercepting “hostile” threats as sirens and emergency alerts sounded nationwide; Kuwait’s foreign ministry condemned what it called repeated Iranian attacks as a dangerous escalation and a violation of international law. US-Iran Escalation: The latest exchange followed US “self-defence” strikes on Iranian radar and drone sites after Iran shot down a US MQ-1 drone, while Iran said it targeted a US-linked base in response—raising uncertainty over fragile ceasefire talks around the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar Diplomacy & Culture: Qatar condemned Israeli extremists’ storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque and expanded its student innovation push with the STEM HUB initiative. Energy & Business Moves: Kuwait secured approval for 1.5GW battery storage project sites; Petrofac completed the sale of Petrofac Emirates; Saudi Masqa Investment set IPO subscription dates. UAE Cost of Living: UAE fuel prices rose for June, with petrol up to near four-year highs, while diesel fell.

Yemen Humanitarian Crisis: The UN’s FAO warned of expanding famine in Yemen, citing “catastrophic pockets” of hunger as conflict, economic collapse and shrinking aid push millions toward starvation. Bahrain Security Crackdown: Bahrain detained 41 suspects in a major case tied to alleged IRGC-linked networks, including claims of influence operations via religious platforms and asset freezes. Kuwait Legal and Public Safety: Kuwait’s Court of Appeals upheld a ruling allowing a woman to obtain a housing title deed without her husband’s consent; authorities also shut an unlicensed Al-Salhiya food warehouse over expired/unlabeled goods and health violations. UAE Law and Health Measures: A UAE civil law lowering the age of adulthood to 18 takes effect Monday, while the UAE warned against travel to Ebola-affected African countries and urged strict post-Hajj health monitoring. Maritime Tensions: Oman and Yemen issued alerts over suspected naval mines near the Strait of Hormuz and Yemen’s eastern coast, as shipping risks rise. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar and Kuwait discussed cooperation and Pakistan’s mediation between the US and Iran, with both sides stressing dialogue to reduce tensions. Economy and Trade: India-Oman CEPA starts June 1, expanding duty-free access and services, while UAE-Nigeria non-oil trade hit $5bn in 2025.

Strait of Hormuz Security: Oman’s Maritime Security Centre warned of a suspected floating naval mine in Omani territorial waters west of the inshore traffic zone, urging mariners to keep distance and report suspicious objects. Shipping Tolls Clash: Qatar opposed any permanent Hormuz transit fees, saying they would raise costs for global buyers, but called short-term, negotiable fees acceptable if tied to mine-clearing or temporary security needs. US-Iran Maritime Pressure: CENTCOM said a US aircraft fired a Hellfire missile to disable a Gambia-flagged ship after repeated non-compliance, as the blockade enforcement continues and hundreds of vessels were redirected. Kuwait Escalation: Kuwait’s foreign ministry condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks as a violation of sovereignty, with regional states including Saudi, UAE, Qatar and Bahrain expressing solidarity. Saudi Hajj Health Check: Saudi Arabia’s health ministry said the 1447 AH Hajj season saw no epidemic outbreaks, including Ebola and hantavirus, despite global health threats. UAE Economy: The UAE reported 2025 real GDP growth of 6.2% to Dhs1.9 trillion, with non-oil GDP up 6.8%. Qatar Digital Push: Qatar highlighted Digital Agenda 2030 investment plans and AI-driven training to expand its non-hydrocarbon economy.

Gulf Security: Iraq condemned rocket and drone attacks on Kuwait and urged restraint and dialogue, while Kuwait blamed Iran and the US accused Iran of violating a fragile ceasefire; in a fresh escalation, reports say intercepted Iranian missile debris injured Americans at Kuwait’s Ali Al Salem Air Base and damaged MQ-9 Reaper drones. Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s new Strait of Hormuz management body (PGSA) rejected US sanctions and vowed to keep issuing passage permits “without interruptions,” as Iran’s foreign minister held talks with Oman on Strait stability and future administration. Diplomacy at the UN: The UAE urged dialogue and de-escalation at a UN Security Council debate, warning that extremist policies and alleged Iranian attacks on civilian infrastructure threaten freedom of navigation. Regional Repercussions: Somalia backed Kuwait after missile and drone attacks, condemning violations of UN principles. Pilgrimage & Culture: Saudi Hajj officials met Hajj companies to review performance and start early preparations for next year, while Oman’s Hajj mission won the Silver “Labaytum” award for service excellence; Saudi also opened its Guest of Honour pavilion at Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair. Local Life: Bahrain announced a rare “Blue Micro Moon” for May 31 and reported a house fire in Aali where five children were rescued. Business & Tech: The UAE topped a global AI talent growth ranking, and Qatar and Japan discussed regional diplomacy and Iran-US talks.

Hajj Praise: Qatari pilgrims say this year’s Hajj 1447 AH ran smoothly thanks to round-the-clock medical and logistical support across Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, with close coordination between Doha and Saudi authorities. Maritime Digital Push: Qatar’s Ministry of Transport rolled out more automated maritime e-services, including big-vessel and seafarer transactions, as part of a wider digital transformation drive. Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi held “very productive” talks with Oman on Hormuz’s legal management, while Chevron warned attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz show risks remain even amid any peace deal. US-Iran-Kuwait Ceasefire Strain: The US accused Iran of attacking Kuwait and violating a fragile ceasefire after Kuwait reported missile and drone strikes following US action; Iran and the US traded blame as talks continued. Qatar Funds in Deal: A US-Iran peace framework’s final sticking point includes Qatar-held humanitarian funds, tied to benchmarks like reopening and de-mining the Strait. UAE-Iran War Fallout: Reports say the UAE carried out dozens of coordinated airstrikes on Iran with US and Israel support, deepening Gulf divisions over how hard to hit back. Regional Humanitarian Alarm: UN warns Yemen is edging toward collapse after a decade of war and neglect, with millions facing extreme hunger and healthcare gaps. Conservation Spotlight: Qatar marked World Dugong Day with new monitoring results from 2023-2026, counting 224 dugongs to guide protection efforts.

Gulf Security: The US military said Iran fired missiles at Kuwait, calling it an “egregious ceasefire violation,” as Kuwait reported intercepts of hostile drones and missiles and Iraq condemned the attacks while urging restraint. Hormuz Pressure: Washington escalated its stance toward Oman, warning it against any role in Strait of Hormuz tolling with Iran; Iran called the US threats “blackmail,” while Oman’s assurances were cited by US officials as “no plans” for tolls. Sanctions & Energy: The US unveiled fresh sanctions targeting Iran’s “shadow oil economy,” with entities and vessels linked to Iranian petroleum and petrochemical trade across Qatar, Singapore, UAE and beyond; Saudi Arabia also signaled possible lower July oil prices to Asia amid softer demand. Hajj & Eid Life: Saudi and Qatari officials highlighted Hajj management in Mina, with Qatar’s medical and camp services running around the clock; in Nigeria, Sokoto’s governor pledged Saudi Riyals to pilgrims as Eid staycation demand lifts Qatar’s hotel sector. Weather: Oman baked under a 47.5°C peak, while the UAE braced for intense heatwave conditions. Sports & Politics: Ireland’s friendly vs Qatar was disrupted by pro-Palestinian tennis-ball protests tied to upcoming Israel fixtures, and Qatar’s U20 path was set in AFC qualifiers.

Strait of Hormuz Escalation: The US imposed sanctions on Iran’s “Persian Gulf Strait Authority,” accusing the IRGC of extorting ships and “monetizing” transit, while Washington warned Oman and any partners against facilitating tolls. Kuwait Under Fire: Iran launched a ballistic missile toward Kuwait, which CENTCOM says was intercepted; Kuwait’s army also reported intercepting hostile drones and missiles as Gulf states condemned the attacks. US-Iran Strike Cycle: Fresh US strikes near Bandar Abbas were followed by IRGC retaliation, with both sides trading blows and officials calling it a ceasefire breach. Oman Threats: US Treasury chief Scott Bessent reiterated that the US will “aggressively” target anyone involved in Hormuz tolling, after Trump’s “blow them up” warnings to Muscat. Regional Solidarity: Egypt, Qatar, and Bahrain condemned attacks on Kuwait and urged de-escalation. Yemen Leadership Loss: Former Yemeni president Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi died in Riyadh at 80. Hajj Tech Push (Qatar): Qatar launched an award for the best digital Hajj app and unveiled new emergency “ambulance scooter” and rescue gear for pilgrims. Bahrain Water Security: Bahrain highlighted water resilience and warned of damage to desalination infrastructure amid regional attacks. Sports & Youth: Oman’s U20 team was drawn with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Hong Kong for AFC qualifiers.

Hormuz Flashpoint: US-Iran tensions flared again as Washington carried out strikes near Bandar Abbas, Iran’s IRGC said it retaliated by targeting a US airbase in Kuwait, and Kuwait reported missile and drone attacks while its air defenses intercepted “hostile” threats. Sanctions Pressure: The US Treasury sanctioned Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority, accusing it of extorting shipping and funnelling revenue to the IRGC, warning anyone cooperating could face penalties. Oman Under Threat: Trump escalated rhetoric toward Oman, warning it must not accept any deal that shares control of the Strait of Hormuz with Iran, or face destruction, while Iran said it is negotiating a new passage procedure with Muscat. Ceasefire Fragility: Oil prices jumped as renewed attacks threatened a shaky truce, with both sides still far apart on reopening the strait. Regional Spillover: Saudi Arabia pledged $150m in urgent oil-derivative support to Yemen for power-station fuel, and Kuwait’s airport operations were reported as open again through terminals 4 and 5. Hajj & Eid Services: Saudi health officials said they delivered over 1.2m pilgrim medical services during Hajj, while Qatar and Kuwait marked Eid al-Adha with public prayers and celebrations.

Hormuz Pressure Escalates: US President Trump warned Oman to “behave” or face attack, saying the Strait of Hormuz must stay open and “nobody’s gonna control it,” as Iran and Oman discuss new transit arrangements. Maritime Security: A Greek-owned tanker off Oman reported an external explosion near its waterline; crew were safe and a small bunker fuel leak was contained, underscoring heightened risks near the strait. UN Condemnation: The UN Security Council condemned an attack on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant as a violation of international law, without assigning blame. Eid Across the Gulf: Oman’s Sultan Haitham led Eid prayers in Sohar; Bahrain held its biggest Eid light show; Kuwait marked Eid with sacrifices and charity, while Saudi Arabia saw major Eid congregations at the Grand Mosque and Prophet’s Mosque. Heat and Health: UAE doctors urged extra precautions as record-breaking temperatures near 50°C loom, warning dehydration can silently harm kidneys. Kuwait Hajj Readiness: Kuwait customs inspected airport Terminal T4 to streamline pilgrim processing for the Hajj season. UAE-UK Ties: The UAE awarded the UK ambassador the Order of Independence, First Class, highlighting continued strategic cooperation.

UN Security Council Condemns Drone Attack on UAE’s Barakah: The UN Security Council strongly condemned a drone strike near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, calling it a serious breach of international law and warning of grave risks to civilians and nuclear safety. Eid Al-Adha Across the Gulf: Kuwait and Qatar marked Eid with mass prayers, sacrifices, and charity, while UAE leaders joined worshippers at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and urged peace and prosperity. Hajj Security and Heat Tech: Saudi Arabia is ramping up grid reliability for holy sites with AI and real-time monitoring, while deploying advanced air defense systems around the Hajj area. Maritime Tensions Watch: Iran and Oman discussed a new procedure for ship passage through the Strait of Hormuz as commercial shipping remains jittery after explosions reported near Oman. Qatar Football Build-Up: Qatar began the Dublin leg of its World Cup preparations with an Ireland friendly, with FIFA confirming Santa Barbara as its team base camp.

Eid diplomacy & stability: Kuwait’s Amir received Eid greetings from ambassadors praising the country’s security and stability, while Kuwait’s credit rating was reaffirmed by S&P and Moody’s with a stable outlook, citing financial buffers amid regional logistics strain. Scam alert: Kuwait’s National Cybersecurity Center warned holiday travelers about fake “travel deal” websites and urged booking only via trusted platforms. Summer work rules (Kuwait): The Civil Service Commission set summer grace periods for staff—female employees get an extra 15 minutes on departure—during reduced working hours. Maritime tension: A Greek-managed tanker reported an external explosion off Oman about 60 nautical miles east of Muscat; crew were safe but a bunker fuel leak was reported, and UKMTO urged extra caution. Hajj peak logistics: Saudi GASTAT put 2026 Hajj pilgrims at 1,707,301, with Kuwaiti officials praising smooth transport to Arafat. UAE digital finance: UAE experts say Open Finance and the Digital Dirham are reshaping payments and lending. Gold & Eid shopping (Qatar): Jewellery sales picked up as gold eased slightly during Eid, with prices still supported by regional uncertainty.