AGP Executive Report

US-Iran Escalation and Talks: The U.S. launched another round of strikes on Iran after Trump warned more action was coming, as Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan reported Iranian fire that tested a fragile ceasefire; at the same time, mediators including Pakistan and Qatar say a memorandum could take up to a year to negotiate, with a reported 60-day path for a final deal and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Investor Residency Overhaul: Kuwait published Cabinet Resolution No. 651/2026 creating “investor residency” permits up to 15 years for KDIPA-approved investors and senior executives, with family eligibility and conditions including KD 5m investment and KD 1m capital. Housing and Development Push: The state-backed ENCON5 forum heard Housing and Municipal Affairs Minister Abdullatif Al-Meshari stress flexible models and the real estate developer program as a pillar for housing delivery. Municipal Enforcement: Capital Governorate teams removed 384 abandoned vehicles and issued 427 public hygiene/road occupancy violations. Border Security: Kuwait foiled cigarette smuggling at Nuwaiseeb, seizing 210 cartons hidden in a vehicle frame. Road Safety: New traffic law enforcement showed major drops in speeding and red-light violations, with harsh penalties including impoundment and deportation for expatriates. Education and Health: MoE shifted Grade 12 exam start to June 21; Health Ministry said blood donors reached 45,539 by June 6. Regional Diplomacy and Culture: Kuwait and Sri Lanka discussed labor and cooperation; Kuwait also hosted a UNESCO-recognized diwaniyas spotlight and community events.

Gulf Security & Diplomacy: Kuwait and Qatar backed progress in US–Iran talks after phone calls between their foreign ministers, as regional ceasefire hopes stay fragile. Regional Energy Shock: Iran’s closure threat and renewed US strikes around the Strait of Hormuz are again rattling global oil markets, with Kuwait repeatedly named in the latest missile/drone exchanges. Kuwait Legal/Status Moves: Kuwait revoked citizenship for 2,192 people via decrees published in the Official Gazette, while arrest warrants for debtors hit a historic low. Internal Security: Salmiya CID arrested four people over a fake Ministry of Commerce inspectors scam targeting shops and supermarkets. Public Administration: The Public Authority for Manpower stepped up checks during Kuwait’s summer outdoor-work ban, issuing notices for violations. Oil & Investment: KPC approved an Egypt gas exploration project (output expected in Q4) and offered crude to Asian buyers directly for the first time since the early 1990s. Social Policy & Services: The Ministry of Social Affairs referred officials at a disability care center to investigation after a surprise inspection. International Humanitarian Work: Kuwait’s envoy met ICRC donors in London, focusing on missing persons and crisis response.

Gulf Security & Energy Shock: Iran announced a full closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes, warning of major disruption as the waterway carries about a fifth of global oil; the move follows renewed U.S.-Iran exchanges that also hit U.S. forces and raised fresh alarm for Kuwait’s region. Kuwait Aviation Pressure: Kuwait’s civil aviation authority filed a third ICAO protest after Iranian attacks targeted Kuwait International Airport’s radar, with injuries reported and parts of air navigation temporarily suspended before operations resumed. Diplomacy Watch: Trump said a U.S.-Iran peace deal would be signed Sunday and that Hormuz would reopen immediately after signing, while Iran and mediators kept the timeline uncertain amid reports of a 60-day ceasefire framework. Local Governance & Oversight: Kuwait’s Social Affairs minister ordered investigations after a surprise inspection at the Handicapped Care and Rehabilitation Center in Sabahiyah, focusing on kitchens, laundry, cleanliness, safety and resident care. Labour Market Update: Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower reminded employers to use the temporary labour transfer grace period (until June 30) via the Ashal portal. Culture & Community: Kuwait’s diwaniyas gained UNESCO intangible heritage recognition, while Boursa Kuwait and Kuwait Clearing Company launched a World Blood Donor Day blood drive.

US-Iran Escalation and Hormuz Shock: Iran announced a full closure of the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for US airstrikes, threatening global oil flows and sending markets into chaos. Kuwait Under Fire: IRGC-linked attacks included strikes and drone activity affecting Kuwait and other Gulf states, while Kuwait’s aviation authority says radar and air navigation infrastructure were hit, prompting a third ICAO protest. Ceasefire Deal Claims vs Reality: Trump says a “great settlement” is near and strikes were cancelled, but Iran and other officials warn no final decision is made yet, keeping the region on edge. Pakistan Mediation: Pakistan’s PM and foreign ministry figures say a final text is close and urge restraint after Iranian strikes on Kuwait and Bahrain. Kuwait Oil and Trade Moves: With exports disrupted, Kuwait Petroleum Corp reportedly offered crude to Asian buyers directly for the first time since the early 1990s, signaling a shift in sales strategy amid the crisis. Local Human Impact: A Kuwait-bound passenger denied boarding by Air India Express was awarded compensation after a consumer dispute ruling. Bahrain-Kuwait Economic Links: Kuwait and Bahrain discussed expanding investment ties, reinforcing regional cooperation even as security tensions rise.

Iran-US Escalation & Kuwait Impact: Kuwait says Iranian strikes hit its airport radar and caused injuries, as airspace reopened under phased operations after earlier closures amid renewed cross-Gulf attacks. Diplomacy Under Strain: Trump again claims a near-final Iran peace deal and cancels strikes, while Tehran says nothing is finalized and disputes leaked terms—keeping the region on edge. Gulf Security After the War: Analysts say Gulf states will need new long-term security arrangements once the Iran conflict ends, after repeated targeting of bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. Kuwait Airport Recovery: Reports warn repairs could take a year after strike damage, even as terminals resume limited flights. Local Enforcement: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry arrested five Bangladeshis for forging and selling government stamps, including counterfeit hospital stamps. Travel & Economy: Kuwait Airways launched direct Zurich service twice weekly for summer demand. Oil Market Signals: Kuwait’s crude sales strategy is shifting, with KPC reportedly offering crude to Asian buyers directly for the first time since the 1990-91 Gulf War. Regional People’s Affairs: India’s missions, including Kuwait, held curtain-raiser yoga events ahead of International Day of Yoga 2026.

Iran-GCC Security: Kuwait says Iranian strikes hit its airport radar, injuring people and forcing a temporary airspace closure before flights resumed; Kuwait also filed fresh ICAO complaints after repeated airport targeting. Diplomacy vs. Escalation: US President Trump claims a “great settlement” with Iran could be signed in Europe this weekend and says strikes were cancelled, but Iran’s foreign ministry says no final decision has been made, keeping the ceasefire fragile. Regional Condemnations: GCC and Saudi/UAE/Qatar condemn Iran’s attacks on Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan, stressing sovereignty and collective defense. Oil & Markets: Oil prices whipsawed lower on deal optimism while Kuwait’s energy firms and regional economies brace for continued disruption around Hormuz and shipping. Kuwait-US Defense Posture: Reports say the US has approved major counter-drone sales to Kuwait as air defense remains central to the response. Local Governance/Services: Kuwait reopened airspace after precautionary restrictions and continues tightening oversight and services amid the security strain.

Kuwait Airspace & Airport Operations: Kuwait’s DGCA said air traffic and flights returned to normal after a temporary airspace closure tied to Iranian attacks, while the foreign ministry reiterated Kuwait would not accept or tolerate “blatant Iranian aggression.” Iran–US Gulf Escalation: Iran said it fired ballistic missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait, with Kuwait reporting interceptions and damage to an airport radar; the IRGC also claimed retaliatory strikes on US-linked bases in Kuwait and Bahrain and announced closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump’s Sudden Reversal: After hours of threats to hit Iran “very hard” and seize Kharg Island, US President Donald Trump later canceled scheduled strikes, saying “final points” were approved by top Iranian leadership and multiple regional partners, while keeping a naval blockade in place until a signing is announced. Regional Diplomacy: Kuwait’s FM Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah led talks in Manama with GCC and Canada, focusing on deepening cooperation and reviewing Iranian attacks’ security impact. Energy & Markets: KUFPEC warned its net profit will fall in 2025 due to lower oil prices and oversupply, as markets reacted to the shifting Iran-strike signals.

US-Iran Escalation Hits Kuwait: The US launched a second straight night of strikes on Iran, saying it targeted “multiple” military surveillance, communications and air-defense sites after Trump warned Tehran would “pay the price” over stalled talks. Regional Fallout: Iran retaliated by firing drones and missiles at US-linked bases in Bahrain and Kuwait, with claims of attacks on 18 US targets; Kuwait’s air defenses reported engaging “hostile” aerial targets. Airspace Disruptions: Kuwait temporarily closed its airspace during the attacks, then reopened it as conditions eased; Kuwait International Airport operations resumed, though NBK temporarily shut its T4 branch. Hormuz Shock: Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed to all vessels, while the US disputed the claim, raising fresh fears for global oil and LNG flows. Diplomacy Pressure: UN officials urged restraint as ceasefire hopes dimmed and regional states condemned the strikes.

Gulf Security Shock: Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait, with both countries reporting interceptions as the US and Iran traded strikes after Trump blamed Tehran for an Apache helicopter incident near the Strait of Hormuz; the GCC, Arab League, and multiple Gulf states condemned the attacks and stressed that aggression against one is aggression against all. Kuwait Air Defense & Diplomacy: Kuwait said its air defenses engaged “hostile targets,” while the Crown Prince spoke by phone with European Council President Antonio Costa, who pledged EU solidarity and urged de-escalation. Maritime Governance: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry began enforcing Decree-Law No. 61/2026 on maritime establishments and floating units, tightening rules and penalties for reckless operation, unlicensed activity, and impaired navigation, with a six-month grace period. Public Services & Economy: Kuwait launched a consultancy tender for Sabah Al Ahmad medical city planning, and Boursa Kuwait pushed fixed-income education after new CMA rules enabling bonds and sukuk trading. Local Finance & Culture: NBK named Rana Al-Najjar as KD 125,000 Al-Jawhara monthly winner, while Kuwait hosted dialogue-focused cultural events with China and an influencers forum tied to media policy.

Gulf Security Escalation: The U.S. launched “self-defense” strikes on Iran after a U.S. Army Apache helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz, with CENTCOM saying it hit air-defense, radar and control sites; Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones at U.S.-linked bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, while Kuwait’s air defenses reported intercepting hostile aerial targets and Bahrain/Jordan also reported interceptions. Diplomacy Under Strain: Iran’s foreign ministry called the U.S. action a violation of sovereignty and warned countries hosting U.S. troops could be targeted again, as mediators including Pakistan’s interior minister pushed for talks. Kuwait Defense Procurement: In parallel with the regional flare-up, Kuwait is moving to bolster counter-drone capacity after a recent airport attack, with U.S. approval reported for about $2bn in counter-drone systems. Domestic Labor Rules: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry updated domestic-worker recruitment, allowing hiring from only 10 approved countries and banning recruitment from 27 others, with procedures routed through governorates.

West Asia Diplomacy: Kuwait’s Amir Sheikh Meshal held calls with Qatar’s emir and India’s PM Modi, with both sides condemning Iranian attacks on Kuwait’s sovereignty and airspace, including the strike on Kuwait International Airport that killed an Indian national and injured others. Regional Security & Escalation: Iran proposed a four-stage deal with the US as clashes intensified around Kuwait and Bahrain, while the US and Iran traded accusations over attacks near the Strait of Hormuz. Air Defense & Arms Politics: Iran’s foreign ministry alleged the US staged a false-flag drone strike on Kuwait airport to justify a nearly $2bn counter-drone sale, as Kuwait continues to bolster defenses amid repeated incidents. Public Safety & Crime: Kuwait arrested suspects in drug trafficking cases, including a ring laundering proceeds via mobile phone recharge cards, and referred them for legal action. Governance & Oversight: The Education Ministry ordered an investigation into tender procedures and contracts, while the Health Ministry reported inspections and citations against salons and health institutes. Digital Government: PAHW and CIT discussed expanding the Wasel platform for faster citizen complaints and service routing. Sports & Youth: Kuwait hosted regional handball action and signed a deal to send three Kuwaiti footballers for England trials.

Iran-Gulf Escalation: Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait, with interceptions reported as the fragile ceasefire faces fresh strain; the U.S. also struck Iranian surveillance and radar sites while Washington weighs using frozen Iranian assets for Gulf reconstruction. Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran floated a transit-fee idea for shipping through the Strait, while U.S. officials say talks with Iran remain active and Trump claims a potential deal could come in “two or three days.” Kuwait Aviation & Diplomacy: Kuwait renewed ICAO complaints over airspace violations and airport attacks as Terminal 1 recovery continues; Moldova issued a travel warning for Qatar and Kuwait citing volatility. Defense & Procurement: The U.S. approved nearly $2bn in counter-drone systems for Kuwait, and reports also point to wider U.S. contingency moves in the region. Cybersecurity Cooperation: Kuwait and Oman signed a cybersecurity MoU, while Kuwait and Oman stressed coordination and dialogue to tackle regional challenges. Local Governance & Economy: Kuwait Municipality launched inspections to clamp down on illegal ads and unlicensed shops; PAI shut 51 industrial plots for legal violations; Tristar (Agility) secured a $770m credit facility; Zain and URC partnered to build Hessah District’s digital infrastructure. Labor & Education: Kuwait updated domestic-worker recruitment rules and launched tighter visa services; Indian schools in Kuwait began applying approved tuition increases. Sports & Society: Kuwait hosted Asian Club Handball action as clubs traded results; Kuwait’s dive team marked World Oceans Day with cleanup drives.

Gulf Security & Diplomacy: Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait, with Bahrain saying interceptions happened early Saturday; Iran claimed it targeted U.S. military assets after U.S. strikes on Iranian surveillance facilities, as Pakistan’s interior minister arrived in Tehran for mediation and the U.S. weighs using frozen Iranian assets to help Gulf allies pay war damages. Air Defense & Military Procurement: The U.S. cleared a $1.98B counter-drone sale to Kuwait, adding C-UAS platforms and interceptors after the airport attack and renewed regional missile-drone threats. Domestic Labor Rules: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry issued a new circular on domestic worker recruitment, allowing sourcing from 10 countries and banning recruitment from 27 others, with processing via governorate service centers. Municipal Enforcement: Kuwait Municipality launched field inspections across all six governorates to check health licenses and crack down on illegal commercial ads, starting with Farwaniya violations and warnings. Education Costs: Indian-curriculum schools began issuing notices for 2026/2027 tuition increases under a May directive, with caps of up to 15% (KD 300–500) or 10% (KD 501+). Health Leadership: Dr. Jasim Yousif Alabbad was appointed Director General of the Dasman Diabetes Institute. Sports & Community: Kuwait Club suffered its first defeat in the Asian Men’s Club League Handball Championship, while the Kuwait Basketball Federation appointed Falah Al-Ajmi to its board. Business & Investment: Boursa Kuwait joined HSBC’s GCC Exchanges Conference in London for its 17th Corporate Day, and Zain partnered with URC to power Hessah District’s digital infrastructure.

Gulf Security & Airspace: Kuwait filed a second protest with ICAO over Iranian airspace violations and attacks on Kuwait International Airport, warning the breaches endanger passengers, airlines, airport staff and critical infrastructure. Airport Recovery: Kuwait International Airport is open again with Terminal 1 resuming flights via a phased plan, but IATA says repairs could take at least a year after strike damage. Missile/Drone Threats: Kuwait’s armed forces intercepted seven ballistic missiles over residential areas, causing material damage but no casualties, as Iran and the US trade strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. US-Kuwait Defense: The US approved in principle a potential $1.98bn counter-drone defense sale to Kuwait, including detection, intercept and command-and-control systems. Diplomacy & Mediation: Pakistan’s interior minister arrived in Tehran to revive US-Iran talks while Washington weighs using frozen Iranian assets for Gulf rebuilding. Government Services: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry launched a paperless service using “My Kuwait ID” to digitize transactions and cut paperwork. Public Safety: Kuwait’s cybercrime unit warned residents against sharing war- and missile-related content that could inflame tensions. Economy/Markets: Kuwait’s bourse slipped amid fresh US-Iran escalation fears, while oil prices jumped on renewed retaliation dynamics.

Gulf Security & Airspace: Kuwait says it has filed a second protest to ICAO over alleged Iranian airspace violations and attacks, including damage to Terminal 1 and repeated disruptions to flights. Defense Procurement: The US authorized about $2bn in counter-drone systems for Kuwait as the country pushes for layered, cost-effective air defense. Regional Escalation: Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait; US CENTCOM reported interceptions and strikes on Iranian radar sites, while Kuwait and Bahrain condemned the attacks and reported successful intercepts. Airport Recovery: IATA warns Kuwait’s airport terminal recovery could take up to a year after strike damage, even as Kuwait partially resumes operations. Diplomacy: Pakistan’s interior minister visited Tehran to restart US-Iran talks amid the renewed Gulf flare-up. Domestic Enforcement: Kuwait arrested three Kuwaiti citizens over cocaine, hashish and psychotropic pills, with cases referred for legal action. Public Guidance: Kuwait’s cybercrime unit warned residents against sharing war and missile content or sectarian material online. Finance & Climate: Boursa Kuwait renewed its climate action push, while NBK launched a sustainable financing framework rated “Excellent” by Sustainable Fitch.

US-Iran Gulf Escalation: The US says it shot down two Iranian one-way attack drones threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, after earlier strikes on Iranian coastal radar sites near Goruk and Qeshm Island. Kuwait Under Fire: Kuwait and Bahrain condemned fresh Iranian missile and drone attacks, with Kuwait reporting interceptions of seven ballistic missiles over residential areas and warning of “dangerous escalation.” Airport Impact for Kuwait: The June 3 Kuwait International Airport strike left one dead and dozens hurt; new updates say three Filipino OFWs were injured and are recovering, with repatriation arrangements underway. Frozen Assets for Reconstruction: The US Treasury is considering redirecting Iranian assets to help Gulf states pay for war damage, a move that could further complicate fragile ceasefire talks. Mediation Push: Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi traveled to Tehran carrying messages for Iran’s leadership as diplomacy struggles to keep pace with renewed exchanges. Regional Condemnations: Saudi Arabia and the GCC reiterated solidarity with Kuwait and Bahrain, calling Iran’s actions a threat to regional and international security. Local Governance/Markets: Boursa Kuwait released its fifth standalone Sustainability Report for 2025, highlighting ESG reporting progress. Sports: Bahrain’s Al Najma begin their Asian handball campaign in Kuwait under a revised format.