AGP Executive Report

Gulf Security: Iran launched seven ballistic missiles at Bahrain and Kuwait after US strikes, with Bahrain intercepting most and Kuwait reporting defensive action; the Kuwait airport drone strike earlier injured three Filipino OFWs, all now recovering. Diplomacy & Sanctions: The US is weighing redirecting Iranian assets to help Gulf states pay for war damages and repairs, while mediator Pakistan’s interior minister travels to Tehran as a fragile ceasefire strains again. Qatar Policy & Economy: Qatar Central Bank updated 5, 10 and 50 riyal banknotes; Qatar also says it’s boosting its investment appeal and expanding sovereign presence abroad, alongside a push to grow urban green space to 21.9m sq m. UAE & Saudi Business: UAE-listed firms posted $17.4bn net profits in Q1 2026; Saudia hit top global on-time performance in May and expands connectivity with Myanmar via a special prorate deal. Energy & Industry: Oman’s OQEP signed an MoU with Libya’s investment authority to expand oil-and-gas cooperation. Sports: Nepal beat Oman to reach the Asian Games Qualifiers final; Qatar held El Salvador to a goalless draw in their last World Cup warm-up.

Gulf Security: Iran launched fresh ballistic missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait, with Bahrain and Kuwait saying air defences intercepted most projectiles; Kuwait temporarily closed airspace (4:15–6:15am) and diverted 11 flights before reopening, while Saudi, Qatar, UAE, Jordan and the Muslim World League condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty. US-Kuwait Defence: The US State Department approved a potential $1.98bn counter-drone sale to Kuwait, including advanced interceptors, surveillance and training. Kuwait Infrastructure & Digital Push: Kuwait opened bids for airport T2 operations/maintenance and moved to audit a contract aimed at cutting paper transactions via digital government services. Saudi Trade Security: Saudi Customs reported 686 contraband seizures last week, including major drug busts. Qatar Investment & Culture: Qatar saw a record wave of foreign investors and new fully foreign-owned company formation, while Qatar National Library advanced “Keys to Palestine” and floated a National Day for Reading and Culture. Markets & Business: Kuwait Stock Exchange purchases by Kuwaiti investors hit about $19.8bn; Boursa Kuwait published its fifth sustainability report.

Gulf Security Escalation: Iran fired seven ballistic missiles toward Kuwait and Bahrain; the US said six were intercepted and one failed, as air raid sirens sounded and air defenses kept working. Kuwait Airspace Disruption: Kuwait temporarily reopened air traffic after a precautionary two-hour closure tied to the missile-drone threat, with flights diverted then returning. Bahrain Condemns Tehran: Bahrain’s foreign ministry called the strikes “blatant aggression” and said interceptions neutralised the incoming missiles. US Arms Push: Washington approved about $1.98bn in counter-drone systems for Kuwait, including Anduril technology, amid rising regional tensions. Diplomatic and Human Impact: Egypt said one Egyptian remained hospitalized after injuries from the Kuwait airport strike, while Kuwait also sentenced a TV presenter for pro-Iran posts. Regional Business Moves: Pakistan signed an MoU with Saudi and local partners to explore a 140-acre maritime business district at Karachi Port Trust waterfront. Culture & Heritage: Saudi archaeologists announced the “Diriyah Treasure,” with 100+ pieces of Abbasid-era gold and gemstone jewellery found at a medieval Hajj route site.

Nuclear Safety in Focus: Qatar condemned the reported attack on the UAE’s Barakah Nuclear Power Plant at an emergency IAEA Board session in Vienna, calling it a breach of international law and nuclear safety principles, while the IAEA chief warned the incident was a “serious compromise of nuclear safety.” Anti-Corruption Protection: Saudi Arabia launched a program to protect whistleblowers, witnesses, experts and victims, allowing courts to hear testimony out of the defendant’s presence and to conceal identities in high-risk cases. Gulf Tensions at Sea: CENTCOM rejected Iranian claims that Tehran fired warning shots at U.S. warships in the Gulf of Oman, saying the reports are false and that U.S. ships operate routinely in international waters. Ebola Preparedness: The UAE announced new visa suspensions and entry restrictions for arrivals from the DRC, Uganda and South Sudan as precautionary steps against Ebola. Aviation & Connectivity: Qatar Airways will expand Doha–Dubai services to five daily flights starting June 5, boosting regional travel options. Saudi Football Spotlight: Saudi Arabia’s World Cup build-up continues after a turbulent national-team coaching cycle, with the squad now preparing for 2026 under new leadership.

Kuwait-Iran Tensions: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to Kuwait’s security after the deadly Kuwait International Airport attack, as Kuwait continues to process the aftermath and injuries. Oman Energy Security: Oman said Mina al Fahal port operations are normal after an explosion near offshore mooring berths, with traders also reporting loadings resumed. Hormuz Diplomacy: Iran’s Abbas Araghchi said the Strait of Hormuz should be jointly managed with Oman under international law, framing it as safe-passage coordination. Qatar Connectivity: Qatar Airways will ramp Dubai flights from two to five daily in phases, boosting regional travel capacity. Qatar Cyber Policy: Qatar launched the National Digital Safety Index to measure cybersecurity awareness and guide future education and campaigns. Bahrain Civic Life: Bahrain’s parliament is set to consider bringing back an international book fair annually, after an eight-year gap. Kuwait Military: New cadet officers joined Kuwait National Guard ranks after completing training programmes. Qatar Sports & Tech: Qatar’s Olympic Academy ran a generative AI for leaders in sport programme with Google Cloud, while cricket qualifiers saw Nepal, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Oman book Asian Games berths.

Kuwait-Iran Escalation: Kuwait’s PM visited injured people after an Iranian drone strike hit Kuwait International Airport, while Iran’s Guards denied responsibility and blamed a US Patriot system error; Kuwait’s FM also met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with both sides condemning Iran’s “repeated aggressions” and reaffirming Kuwait’s right to defend itself. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s PM and FM held talks with France on mediation efforts to reduce Middle East tensions, while Qatar condemned an attack on a UNIFIL site in southern Lebanon. Gulf Security Cooperation: Kuwait and Jordan’s interior and military chiefs met in Amman to review bilateral ties and regional security challenges. Women in Leadership: Kuwait highlighted women’s leadership progress, and Emirates promoted its first Emirati female captains. Qatar’s Culture & Economy: Qatar Museums unveiled June family programs, and Qatar said its diversification drive is sustaining growth and investment inflows. Sports & Youth: Yemen qualified for the AFC Asian Cup 2027, and Kuwait hosts the Asian Men’s Handball Club Championship.

Gulf Security Shock: Kuwait International Airport was hit by Iranian drones, killing one and injuring dozens, with flights disrupted and Terminal 1 damaged; Iran denies responsibility and says a US Patriot interceptor malfunction caused the impact, while the US and Kuwait blame Iran, as the wider Iran–US standoff keeps pressure on the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic Fallout: India’s ambassador visited the Kuwait mortuary and injured nationals after the attack, while Kuwait and Bahrain trade condemnations and security warnings. Energy & Trade: KEPCO won Saudi Aramco’s Jafurah power project phase two, a 331MW cogeneration deal expected to generate about $1.4bn in revenue, underscoring Gulf energy buildout despite regional turmoil. Qatar Tech & Finance: Qatar launched a youth cyber camp for ages 13–17 and expanded regional payments by adding Bahrain to the HIMYAN national card network. UAE Economy & Society: A survey ranks the UAE among the world’s top real estate investment destinations, and Abu Dhabi’s tolerance push is highlighted in new quality-of-life figures.

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.