AGP Executive Report

US-Iran Peace Push & Hormuz Shockwaves: The Strait of Hormuz is at the center of a fast-moving US-Iran interim peace push, with reports saying the waterway could reopen and the US naval blockade be lifted, while markets brace for how quickly shipping and oil flows can normalize after months of disruption. Kuwait Oil & Trade Angle: Kuwait’s energy exposure is highlighted as KPC reportedly offered crude to Asian buyers directly for the first time since the early 1990s, as the region’s crisis reshapes sales routes and export timing. Local Education Updates: Kuwait’s Ministry of Education reviewed Grade 12 exam timing around the Hijri New Year, with possible start-date shifts depending on the holiday declaration and results set for early July. Housing & Development: Housing remains a top national priority, with Minister Abdullatif Al-Meshari stressing momentum on state development projects and the real estate developer program. Higher Education Links: Kuwait and Qatar University discussed expanding academic and research cooperation, including support for Kuwaiti students and joint innovation. Property Rules: Kuwait’s finance ministry warned against subleasing chalets and state land permits, warning of licence cancellation and eviction. Regional Connectivity: Turkey and Saudi Arabia plan a rail link reaching Jordan and Syria, with Kuwait flagged as a possible later participant.

Middle East Tensions & Energy: Iran says it has shut the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes, warning of major disruption to a route carrying about a fifth of the world’s oil and sending markets into fresh uncertainty. US-Iran Talks: Reports say a draft U.S.-Iran memorandum is being prepared with a 60-day path to a final deal, but Iran has not confirmed signing timelines. Kuwait Border Security: Kuwait foiled a cigarette smuggling attempt at Nuwaiseeb, arresting a Gulf national after 210 cartons were found hidden in a vehicle frame. Residency for Investors: Kuwait approved a new 15-year residency framework for foreign investors and eligible family members, with KDIPA recommendations and strict financial and compliance conditions. Road Safety: Kuwait’s new traffic law appears to be working, with major drops in speeding and red-light violations. Local Development: Housing and mortgage investment projects were highlighted at ENCON5, with officials stressing transparency and private-sector participation. Air Travel & Tourism: Kuwait Airways launched seasonal flights to Mykonos. Health & Community: Kuwait marked World Blood Donor Day with 45,539 donors recorded since January, and a new study warns that fully cutting sucrose may harm gut health.

Investor Residency: Kuwait issued a new 15-year residency framework for foreign investors under Cabinet Resolution No. 651/2026, setting out eligibility for owners of licensed investment entities, partners, senior executives and immediate family, with strict checks including criminal record certificates and passport validity rules. Retiree Banking: NBK expanded its “Experienced Individuals” package for retirees, offering higher deposit returns, free lifetime credit cards, home banking access and concierge document/cash delivery. Oil & Shipping Shock: Iran announced a full closure of the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes, raising fears of major global supply disruption and price spikes. Diplomacy on Iran Talks: Qatar and Kuwait reiterated support for U.S.-Iran negotiations, backing dialogue to resolve pending issues. Local Safety & Crime: Kuwait’s Fire Force reported two deaths in a Subhan vehicle rollover and fire, while detectives pursued an exhaust-pipe theft suspect. Public Services: Kuwait’s Manpower Authority stepped up summer outdoor-work inspections, issuing notices for violations. Citizenship Moves: Kuwait published decrees revoking citizenship from 2,192 people. Culture: Kuwait’s diwaniyas were highlighted again after UNESCO recognition as intangible heritage.

Middle East Energy Shock: Iran says it has shut the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes, warning of major global disruption as oil prices brace for chaos. Kuwait Aviation Fallout: Kuwait has filed its third complaint to ICAO over attacks on Kuwait International Airport radar, after injuries and damage were reported, and air navigation operations were temporarily adjusted before returning to normal. Diplomacy Watch: Trump says a U.S.-Iran peace deal will be signed Sunday and that Hormuz will reopen after signing, while Iran and U.S. officials keep sending mixed signals. Local Oversight: Kuwait’s Social Affairs minister ordered investigations after a surprise inspection of a Sabahiyah care center, focusing on kitchens, laundry, cleanliness and resident safety. Community & Culture: Kuwait’s diwaniyas were recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, highlighting their role in dialogue and social cohesion. Health & Society: Boursa Kuwait and Kuwait Clearing Company launched a blood donation campaign for World Blood Donor Day, while an Indian embassy drive drew hundreds of donors. Education & Recognition: A Kuwaiti religious institute won top prize at Arab Code Week’s Golden Educator competition. Work & Travel Rules: Kuwait reminded employers about a temporary labour transfer grace period until June 30, and also suspended commercial visit visas, disrupting short-term business travel.

Strait of Hormuz Crisis: Iran says it has shut the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping in retaliation for US strikes, a move that could sharply disrupt global oil flows and send prices higher, while Kuwait and the region brace for wider fallout. Kuwait ICAO Protest: Kuwait has sent a third formal protest to ICAO over continued Iranian attacks on Kuwait International Airport, including damage to radar and injuries, warning the repeated targeting of civil aviation infrastructure violates international rules. Oil Market Shift for Kuwait: Kuwait Petroleum Corp. has reportedly offered crude directly to Asian buyers for the first time since the 1990-91 Gulf War, signaling a push to expand market share amid the ongoing regional conflict. Diplomacy on the Iran Deal: Pakistan’s mediation efforts are in focus as US-Iran talks are described as nearing a preliminary MoU, but Iran has urged caution and rejected claims of a final agreement. Local Life in Kuwait: With uncertainty over the war, Kuwaitis are turning to gold as a safe-haven, even as making charges stay high. Community & Travel: Indian missions in Kuwait and elsewhere held yoga events ahead of International Day of Yoga, while an Air India Express case saw compensation after a woman was wrongly denied boarding on a Kuwait-bound flight.

Kuwait Airspace & Airport Impact: Kuwait said Iranian strikes damaged its airport radar and caused injuries, after a temporary airspace closure; flights have since resumed under a phased reopening plan. Regional Security & Air Defense: CENTCOM reported three US F-15E jets were mistakenly shot down by Kuwait air defenses during active combat, with all six aircrew safe. Oil & Shipping Through Hormuz: Kuwait joined “dark-mode” tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, while Gulf refined fuel exports rebounded as more tankers slipped through despite the wider disruption. US-Iran Deal Talks: Trump again claimed a near-final Iran peace deal, but Iran urged caution and said nothing is finalized, keeping markets and the region on edge. Local Economy & Travel: Kuwait Airways launched direct Zurich service twice weekly for summer demand. Fraud Crackdown: Kuwait arrested five Bangladeshis for forging and selling counterfeit government stamps, seizing printers and stamp rolls. Business & Tech: KKR launched Helix Digital Infrastructure with $10B+ to build AI data-center infrastructure, with Kuwait’s sovereign wealth fund among backers. Community & Culture: Indian missions in Kuwait and elsewhere held yoga events ahead of International Day of Yoga 2026.

Gulf Security Update: Kuwait said Iranian strikes on Thursday damaged Kuwait International Airport’s radar and caused injuries, after a brief airspace closure; the DGCA later reopened air traffic as air defence units reported intercepting hostile aerial targets. US-Iran Deal Whiplash: President Donald Trump cancelled further planned strikes and claimed a “great settlement” with Iran could be signed in Europe this weekend, but Iran’s foreign ministry said no final decision has been made and that US demands kept changing. Regional Condemnations: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and the GCC all condemned renewed Iranian attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, calling them violations of sovereignty and urging de-escalation. Oil & Markets: Kuwait cut its July crude official selling price for Asia amid shifting demand signals; oil prices fell on deal optimism while regional tensions continued to rattle markets. Local & Community: Kuwait hosted an Indian Mango Festival at The Avenues, highlighting growing Kuwait-India food and trade ties. Tech Investment: KKR launched Helix Digital Infrastructure with $10B+ including Kuwait Investment Authority funding to build next-gen AI data-centre infrastructure.

US-Iran Tensions: President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled planned US strikes and bombings on Iran, saying “final points” have been approved at the highest level of Iranian leadership and that a deal signing is expected “shortly,” while keeping a naval blockade in place until then. Regional Security: Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the US escalation, and the IRGC said it retaliated with missile and drone strikes on US-linked bases in Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain, while also declaring the Strait of Hormuz closed. Kuwait Airspace & Airport: Kuwait reported its airport radar was damaged in an attack, but civil aviation later said air traffic and flights returned to normal after a precautionary airspace closure. Energy & Markets: Oil prices slid sharply after Trump’s reversal, while Kuwait’s KUFPEC warned profits may fall in 2025 due to lower oil prices and oversupply. Diplomacy: Kuwait’s FM led talks in Manama at a GCC-Canada strategic dialogue, with attention on Iranian attacks and regional stability. Sports & Youth: Kuwait hosted the Asian Men’s Club League Handball Championship, and Zain backed INJAZ Kuwait’s youth program awards.

US-Iran Escalation: The US launched a second straight day of airstrikes on Iran after Trump warned Tehran would “pay the price” over stalled talks, while Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting US-linked bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. Kuwait Airspace Disruption: Kuwait temporarily shut its airspace from 4:50 a.m. as a precaution, diverting flights, as Kuwait’s air defenses engaged hostile aerial targets; air traffic later returned to normal and airlines resumed operations. Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s state media said the Strait of Hormuz was closed to all vessels, warning any transit would be targeted, as the US disputed the claim and said commercial shipping continued. Regional Impact: Bahrain reported damage from intercepted debris and a minor injury to an 11-year-old girl. Business & Travel: Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways suspended flights during the closure and later resumed, with passengers advised to check updated schedules.

US-Iran Escalation: Trump said the US will hit Iran “very hard” again after Iran downed a US Apache near the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran retaliated by targeting US bases and claimed strikes involving Kuwait and Bahrain; the GCC condemned the attacks as a breach of the UN Charter. Kuwait Air Defence & Airport Recovery: Kuwait reported intercepting hostile aerial targets and said air defence systems were active as regional sirens sounded; Kuwait International Airport reopened on a phased basis after damage, with recovery expected to take time. Energy & Markets: Kuwait’s oil price slipped to $101.84 a barrel, while global markets tracked the renewed risk premium from the conflict. Maritime Safety Law: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry rolled out Decree-Law No. 61/2026 tightening rules for maritime establishments and floating units, with tougher penalties and a six-month grace period. Housing & Medical Projects: PAHW launched tenders for infrastructure in new residential cities and a consultancy tender for a Sabah Al Ahmad medical city. Local Finance: NBK named Al-Jawhara draw winners, while Commercial Bank, Gulf Bank and Boursa Kuwait pushed customer and investor education initiatives. Culture & Community: Kuwait hosted dialogue-themed Arabic-Chinese calligraphy events and launched KISR’s summer training programme for youth.

Gulf Security: Kuwait’s Army General Staff said air-defense systems are engaging hostile aerial targets in line with operational procedures, urging residents to follow official safety instructions as Iran and the US trade strikes after the downing of a US Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Escalation: Iran’s IRGC claimed it hit US-linked bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, while the US said it carried out “self-defence” strikes on Iranian air-defense, ground control and radar sites; Jordan reported intercepting five Iranian missiles aimed at the Al-Azraq area. Defense Procurement: Kuwait is moving to strengthen counter-drone capability after the airport attack, with US approvals for about $2bn in counter-drone systems including Anduril platforms. Local Life & Rules: Kuwait tightened domestic-worker recruitment, banning hiring from 27 countries and limiting approvals to 10. Business/Markets: Asian stocks fell on the renewed US-Iran exchange, with oil and regional trade concerns rising. Sports: Al Najma face Sharjah in a must-win Asian club handball clash in Kuwait.

West Asia Diplomacy: Iran floated a four-stage deal with the US as clashes around Kuwait International Airport intensified, with Kuwait condemning attacks on civilian sites and India reiterating its support for Kuwait’s sovereignty. Airport Security & Fallout: Kuwait reported a terminal strike that killed one and injured 63, while Iran and the US traded blame over the incident and broader drone/missile exchanges. Oil & Trade: Kuwait Petroleum Corp offered crude cargoes to China and South Korea for the first time since the Iran war began, as inventories fell after tankers exited with AIS signals off. Major Contract: L&T won a KD303.5m ($992m) KOC deal for export crude storage and upgrades at Mina Al Ahmadi. Domestic Labour Rules: Kuwait approved domestic worker hiring from 10 countries under revised oversight, with tighter restrictions elsewhere. Public Services Push: Sahel app added an online “Certificate of Previous Addresses,” while PAM barred employers from forcing work in extreme weather and health risks. Crime & Enforcement: Kuwait busted a drug money-laundering network using phone recharge cards, and arrested drug suspects in separate cases. Business & Lifestyle: Deliveroo launched nationwide free summer delivery; stc partnered with TOD for FIFA World Cup 2026 live streaming; Gulf Bank ran a World Oceans Day beach cleanup near Kuwait Towers.

US-Kuwait Defense Boost: The US State Department has cleared a possible $1.98bn sale of Anduril counter-drone systems to Kuwait, aimed at improving electronic and kinetic defenses after recent regional attacks. Aviation & Diplomacy: Kuwait has filed a second ICAO complaint over airspace violations tied to the airport strikes, while Moldova issued a travel alert urging extra caution for trips to Kuwait and Qatar. Regional Ties: Kuwait and Oman met in the 11th session of their joint committee, stressing coordination to tackle regional challenges, and signed a cybersecurity MoU to build a “digital fortress.” Local Enforcement: Kuwait’s PAI shut 51 industrial plots for legal breaches; the Communications authority granted a three-month grace period to surrender unlicensed wireless devices; and traffic police arrested drivers for extreme speeding, including 171 km/h. Cost of Living: Indian schools in Kuwait raised tuition fees for 2026/2027, with parents weighing the impact. Business & Projects: Tristar (Agility) secured a $770m credit facility, while Kuwait and China reviewed progress on joint development projects. Culture & Community: A Mexico-Kuwait photo exhibition opened at CAP, and the Kuwait Dive Team marked World Oceans Day with coastal cleanups.

Domestic Labor Rules: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry issued a new circular updating approved sources for domestic worker recruitment and banning hiring from 27 countries, with processing routed through governorate service centers. Municipal Crackdown: Kuwait Municipality launched field inspections across all six governorates to check health licenses and enforce rules on commercial ads, issuing violations and warnings in Farwaniya. Airport & Security: Kuwait submitted a second formal protest to ICAO over alleged Iranian airspace violations and attacks on Kuwait International Airport, warning of risks to passengers and airport operations. Defense Upgrade: The US cleared a potential $1.98bn counter-drone sale to Kuwait, including detection, interceptors, command-and-control and electronic warfare systems. Regional Tensions: Kuwait reported intercepting seven ballistic missiles over residential areas after renewed Iran-linked attacks. Business & Markets: Boursa Kuwait heads to HSBC’s GCC Exchanges Conference in London, while Action Energy showcased its landmark IPO at an investor event. Health Leadership: Dr. Jasim Alabbad was appointed Director General of the Dasman Diabetes Institute. Sports & Community: Kuwait Club’s handball campaign continued with results from the Asian Men’s Club League, and Kuwait Airways sponsored the Arab Veterans Tennis Championship in Egypt.

Aviation & Security: Kuwait filed a second formal protest with ICAO over Iranian airspace violations and attacks on Kuwait International Airport, warning the strikes threaten passenger safety and critical airport infrastructure. Airport Recovery: IATA says Terminal 1 repair work could take at least a year, with the roof reportedly gone, while Kuwait Airways and Jazeera continue operating from separate terminals as services return in phases. Regional Missile Threat: Kuwait says it intercepted seven Iranian ballistic missiles over residential areas, with material damage reported but no casualties; the wider Iran–US standoff also triggered major market shocks. US–Kuwait Defense: The US approved a potential $1.98bn counter-drone defense sale to Kuwait, including detection and intercept systems, training, and support. Local Government Services: The Interior Ministry launched a paperless service using “My Kuwait ID” to speed up transactions, with 15 service centers planned by end-2026. Economy & Finance: NBK unveiled a new Sustainable Financing Framework, while Boursa Kuwait renewed its climate action push for World Environment Day. Community: Kuwait’s cybercrime unit warned residents against sharing war or missile content online; meanwhile, three injured OFWs from the airport attack are recovering.

Gulf Security & Airspace: Kuwait filed a second protest to ICAO over alleged Iranian airspace violations and attacks on Kuwait International Airport, after Terminal 1 damage and a temporary flight suspension; Kuwait also reopened airspace and resumed operations following brief shutdowns tied to missile/drone threats. Airport Recovery: IATA warned the airport terminal could need up to a year to recover from strike damage, with most foreign airlines affected while Kuwait Airways and Jazeera operate via separate terminals. Defense & Arms: The US approved about $2bn in counter-drone weapons for Kuwait, as Kuwait reinforces layered air defense with cost-effective systems. Regional Escalation: CENTCOM said it intercepted six of seven Iranian ballistic missiles aimed at Kuwait and Bahrain, and shot down drones over the Strait of Hormuz; Kuwait and Bahrain condemned the attacks as dangerous escalation. Markets & Oil: Strait of Hormuz closure continues to complicate Kuwait’s oil revenue and budget estimates, while OPEC+ agreed a July output quota increase of 188,000 bpd. Local Life: Kuwait’s Public Authority for Food and Nutrition marked World Food Safety Day with a public awareness push; Kuwait’s Cybercrime Department warned residents against sharing war or sectarian content online. Crime: Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior arrested three Kuwaiti citizens over cocaine, hashish and psychotropic pills seizures.