AGP Executive Report

Kuwait in the Iran-US crossfire: Iran’s IRGC says it launched missile and drone strikes early July 9 on U.S. bases in Kuwait (Arifjan, Ali al-Salem) and Bahrain, warning of wider “crushing responses” if attacks continue. Hormuz pressure point: The U.S. is demanding Iran make a public pledge that the Strait of Hormuz is open and that ships won’t be attacked, as Washington says internal Iranian power struggles and hard-liners are undermining the MoU. Ceasefire in tatters: Trump again called the interim ceasefire “OVER,” while also saying talks can continue—after U.S. strikes hit dozens of Iranian military targets and Iran retaliated across the region. Kuwait’s legal trade push: Kuwait’s UN delegation wrapped up UNCITRAL talks, backing updates to international dispute-settlement and advisory frameworks to boost legal certainty for trade. Diplomacy moves: Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi is set to visit Oman for Hormuz-focused talks, while India’s Jaishankar heads to the U.S. to launch India’s UN Security Council bid.

US-Iran Escalation Hits Kuwait: The U.S. launched new airstrikes on Iran, then Iran retaliated by targeting U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain with missiles and drones, as sirens sounded across the region and the Strait of Hormuz crisis deepened. Ceasefire in Doubt: President Donald Trump again said the interim ceasefire is “over,” even as he claims talks will continue, while mediators push Qatar and Pakistan-led diplomacy to prevent a wider regional war. Shipping and Oil Pressure: Strait traffic reportedly plunged, with tanker routes shifting and energy markets bracing for fresh disruption. Kuwait Security Response: Kuwait reported intercepting missiles and drones and said one person was injured by falling debris during the latest attacks. Diplomatic Calls for Restraint: Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif urged restraint in calls with Iran’s president and the Qatari emir, as Gulf states condemned renewed Iranian attacks on Kuwait and other neighbors. UN Nuclear Watch Warning: The UN said the IAEA lost full monitoring continuity of Iran’s nuclear program after strikes, raising new proliferation concerns.

Gulf Security: The US and Iran traded fresh strikes after Trump declared the Iran truce “over,” with Washington hitting about 90 Iranian targets and Tehran retaliating by targeting US-linked sites in Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar; Kuwait reported intercepts of missiles and drones and said one person was injured by falling debris. Diplomacy Watch: Despite the violence, US officials say technical talks are still ongoing, while regional mediators including Qatar and Pakistan push de-escalation as Strait of Hormuz shipping remains disrupted. Khamenei Burial: Iran buried Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Mashhad after six days of mourning, as the funeral coincided with renewed hostilities. Regional Reaction: GCC and Arab partners, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, condemned Iranian attacks on Kuwait and other Gulf states. Security Alerts: Israel shared intelligence with the US about a new alleged Iranian plot to assassinate Trump, adding to fears of further escalation. Markets: Oil prices edged higher as investors weighed Hormuz risks, while chip-led rallies helped stocks absorb Middle East uncertainty.

Gulf Security Shock: Kuwait condemned renewed Iranian attacks after its air defenses intercepted multiple ballistic missiles, a cruise missile and hostile drones overnight; one person was injured and debris damaged sites, with officials urging the public not to approach or share photos of remnants. Ceasefire Fallout: The wider US-Iran standoff escalated as President Trump declared the Iran truce “over” following IRGC retaliation, while shipping through the Strait of Hormuz reportedly slowed sharply and Gulf states stepped up coordination. Regional Diplomacy: Kuwait also held talks with Iraq’s foreign minister on boosting security and bilateral cooperation, as the UAE and other Gulf partners reiterated solidarity with Kuwait amid the attacks. Digital Kuwait: PACI moved e-signature activation to the “My Identity” app, removing the need for kiosk visits, and the Finance Ministry launched Sahel payments for state property dues. E-Commerce Rules: Kuwait’s Commerce Ministry issued new regulations for intermediary electronic platforms and delivery arrangements, with compliance deadlines set for licensed operators. Culture & Education: Zain sponsored the “Watani” orchestral performance marking Kuwait’s independence anniversary, while Kuwait University opened its admissions exhibition to guide students ahead of the 2026/2027 intake.

US-Iran Escalation Hits Kuwait: The US resumed strikes on Iran for a second straight day, aiming to limit Tehran’s ability to threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, after Trump said the ceasefire is “over.” Kuwait on Alert: Kuwait reported intercepting hostile missiles and drones as Iran’s IRGC claimed it struck US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain; sirens were heard and authorities urged residents not to share debris photos. Regional Fallout: Bahrain and Qatar also sounded alarms, while international leaders called for restraint and the UN warned a return to full-scale war could be “catastrophic” for the region and the global economy. Markets and Shipping: Strait traffic slowed sharply and oil prices jumped again, with Gulf stocks extending losses as investors priced in higher risk. Local Updates: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry added a digital Residence Permit Proof Certificate service via the Sahel app, while the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition shut an unlicensed restaurant operating from a private residence in Farwaniya.

Gulf Security: Kuwait condemned repeated Iranian attacks as a violation of its sovereignty, saying its armed forces intercepted two ballistic missiles and 13 drones early Wednesday with no casualties, while debris damaged some power lines but essential services were not disrupted. Regional Diplomacy: Kuwait’s Crown Prince met India’s EAM Dr. S Jaishankar as both sides discussed deepening cooperation, and Kuwait also received Iraq’s FM Dr. Fuad Hussein. US-Iran Escalation: The US said it is conducting fresh strikes on Iran for a second straight day after Trump declared the interim Iran ceasefire “over,” warning more action could come “very fast,” as Iran retaliated by targeting US-linked sites in Bahrain and Kuwait. Local Governance: The Women’s Housing Committee at PAHW ran a lottery for 205 homes in Sulaibiya and Taima, with new rules requiring applicants to sign an acknowledgment before entry. Consumer Protection: Kuwait’s Commerce Ministry seized about 11,000 counterfeit items and shut eight shops during a joint crackdown with Interior. Business & Tech: Zain Perks welcomed 4Sale as a new partner, while Boursa Kuwait will host CODED Academy’s UNICODE program to boost practical skills for students.

Gulf Security Shock: Air raid sirens sounded in Bahrain and Kuwait again as the US launched fresh strikes on Iran after attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran retaliating by targeting US-linked sites in Bahrain and Kuwait; Kuwait’s air defences said they were intercepting hostile missiles and drones, while Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry condemned the “repeated Iranian aggressions” as a breach of sovereignty and international law. Ceasefire in Doubt: US President Donald Trump said the interim memorandum of understanding with Iran is “over,” calling negotiations a “waste of time,” as NATO chief Mark Rutte backed the strikes as “absolutely necessary.” Diplomatic Push: The EU condemned the attacks and said EU foreign ministers will meet Gulf counterparts to protect freedom of navigation, while Qatar and Oman also condemned Iran’s actions and urged de-escalation. Markets and Aviation: Oil prices jumped and European stocks fell on renewed Middle East tensions, and the EU aviation safety agency extended guidance for airlines to avoid Iranian and Iraqi airspace until Aug. 31. Local Impact: Kuwait reported power outages in affected areas, later saying electricity supply was restored nationwide. Kuwait Business Note: Kuwait Investment Company’s German subsidiary Wisaly secured a €23m loan to fund upcoming investment opportunities.

Public Safety & Justice: Kuwait Municipality began removing illegal fences, diwaniyas and other encroachments after a two-week grace period ended, warning residents to comply with long-standing land and landscaping rules. Crime Update: Kuwait’s MoI says it has solved the case of a missing Indian resident whose body was later found buried in the Al-Salmi desert, with a suspect arrested and another sought over an alleged workplace death and cover-up. Security & Surveillance Rules: The Interior Ministry urged owners of key commercial and vital sites to install cameras and keep recordings for 120 days under the 2015 law, with penalties for tampering and privacy violations. Local Governance: The Supreme Judicial Council reported 6,355 appeals adjudicated in June, with a resolution rate exceeding 100%. Foreign Affairs: FM Sheikh Jarrah met Japan and Greece counterparts in Ankara, while India’s Jaishankar arrived in Kuwait for talks on trade, investment, energy security and consular cooperation. Defense & Society: The Kuwaiti army opened volunteer military enlistment to women, and the National Guard inspected drone-counter measures at Al-Sumoud Camp. Energy & Region: NATO foreign ministers met Gulf counterparts in Ankara to discuss Strait of Hormuz tensions and a proposed maritime mission.

NATO Summit in Ankara: NATO leaders meet Tuesday and Wednesday as US President Donald Trump presses allies to boost defence spending, with Gulf states including Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE sending officials amid Iran-related Hormuz tensions. Hormuz Security Talks: NATO foreign ministers will meet Gulf counterparts to address the stalemate over reopening the Strait of Hormuz, after attacks and missile incidents targeting the region. Oil Market Pressure: OPEC+ plans another August output hike of 188,000 bpd, while Saudi Aramco cuts Asia crude prices by $11 a barrel as supplies rise and Hormuz risk eases. Kuwait Infrastructure & Transport: Kuwait’s Public Works Minister inspected the first weigh-in-motion truck monitoring system site on the Seventh Ring Road to curb overloaded vehicles and protect roads. Local Governance & Compliance: Kuwait Municipality launches a nationwide alleyway cleaning campaign, while the Commerce Ministry reports 35 violations in inspections, including expired cosmetics and illegal goods. Public Health Watch: A Kuwait expert warns “healthy” food labels can mislead shoppers, urging consumers to check nutrition facts. Consular Update: The Indian Embassy in Kuwait limits consular, passport and visa services to emergency cases only until July 9.

Public Safety & Courts: Kuwait’s Court of Appeals upheld acquittals in a fatal Fourth Ring Road hit-and-run, saying prosecutors failed to prove negligence or traffic-law violations. Road Accidents: One person died and another was seriously injured in a crash on the Al-Abdali Road near the border crossing; police and forensics launched an inquiry. Crime & Deportations: Four expatriates were arrested in Farwaniya and Al-Mutlaa for possessing locally made alcohol and marijuana; authorities decided to deport them for personal use and place names on Kuwait’s blacklist. Security Operations: Customs seized 481 cartons of cigarettes hidden inside a heavily modified vehicle at Nuwaiseeb Port, and Kuwait’s Criminal Investigations dismantled a cable-theft network linked to KOC, arresting suspects including an insider. Market Oversight: Commerce inspectors issued 35 violation reports and closed a grocery store for selling expired cosmetics, unlicensed goods and subsidized food. Water Disruption: Scheduled maintenance may reduce water supply in Riqqa, Fahad Al-Ahmad and Sabahiya on Wednesday. Community & Inclusion: Zain Kuwait marked graduation of its GROW program for fresh graduates with disabilities, offering paid internships with partner universities. Climate & Rights: Kuwait-backed UN Human Rights Council resolution adopted to protect humanitarian workers in armed conflicts.

Emergency Funding: Kuwait has launched a US$100 million Emergency Response Fund via the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development to finance repairs to facilities damaged during the Iran conflict, with the cabinet decision now being implemented through project assessments and calls for public and private contributions. Naval Tech Contract: HGH will supply infrared surveillance systems for Kuwait Navy’s Al Dorra-class offshore patrol vessels, integrating 360° IR cameras and software into Leonardo’s combat management system. Oil Market Watch: OPEC+ agreed to raise August output targets by 188,000 barrels per day, including Kuwait’s increase, as Strait of Hormuz exports recover—though analysts note the hike may still be “on paper” amid lingering disruption risks. Local Economy: Boursa Kuwait reported a 14.9% jump in June liquidity to about KWD 2.131 billion, even as average daily trading value fell year-on-year. Women in Service: Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence opened military volunteering opportunities for women, outlining eligibility, exams, interviews and training requirements.

OPEC+ Energy Update: Seven OPEC+ members, including Kuwait, agreed to raise August oil output quotas by 188,000 barrels per day as Strait of Hormuz exports keep recovering and fuel prices ease. Emergency Preparedness: Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development launched a $100m Kuwait Emergency Response Fund to boost national readiness and repair damage to infrastructure amid regional security pressures. Security & Law: Kuwait’s Interior Ministry arrested a man for promoting marijuana on social media, warning of penalties under the 2025 narcotics decree-law. Digital Security: The National Cybersecurity Center rolled out its “Cloud Cybersecurity” project, running until November, to train specialists for secure cloud operations. Local Governance: The Ministry of Social Affairs urged zero tolerance and strong oversight by officials on cooperative society boards to protect public and shareholder funds. Diplomacy: India’s EAM S Jaishankar begins a six-nation tour on July 5, with a Kuwait visit July 7-9 focused on trade, energy security and consular cooperation. Workplace Rules: PAM confirmed the midday outdoor work ban remains 11:00am-4:00pm from June 1 to Aug 31.

Road Works: Kuwait’s Public Works and Housing Ministry will start Monday maintenance on the Russeifa Bridge expansion joints on the Amman Development Road, using partial lane diversions to keep traffic moving while crews work. Judicial Reform: Kuwait amended its Juvenile Law to make juvenile courts and appellate circuits more flexible, aiming to cut delays and improve case handling. Bankruptcy Overhaul: New amendments to Kuwait’s Bankruptcy Law set up a Bankruptcy Court within the Court of First Instance with flexible circuits and judges, designed to speed up proceedings. Travel Ban Faster: Kuwait expanded who can approve travel ban orders, allowing more judges to handle requests immediately after submission. Rental Rules: New Interior regulations tighten vehicle and motorbike rentals, requiring bilingual contracts, detailed traffic records, and internal cameras for driver-provided rentals. Diplomacy: India’s EAM S. Jaishankar begins a six-nation tour including Kuwait, with talks focused on bilateral ties and regional issues. Energy & Tech: SLB will build a new Kuwait technology facility under KOC’s Ahmadi Innovation Valley deal to scale oilfield AI and digital innovation. Security & Health: MoI arrested 10 drug suspects in separate cases, while the Education Ministry resumes 27 evening summer school clubs nationwide.

Court & Security: A Kuwaiti citizen was sentenced to 10 years in prison for joining Hezbollah and meeting with Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps members, in a State Security Circuit case. Public Safety & Justice: Kuwait’s MoI arrested 10 suspects in seven separate drug cases, seizing 500 grams of hashish and 20,000 Captagon pills, with suspects referred for legal action. Family Protection Law: Kuwait’s domestic violence figures fell 27% in the first months after the new law, and authorities reiterated that sexual assault within the family cannot be waived by the victim. Housing Pressure: A finance expert warned that government housing delays are still stretching beyond a decade for some citizens, while plot scarcity keeps prices under pressure. Digital Cooperation: Communications minister Omar Al-Omar met Brunei’s ambassador to discuss boosting Kuwait’s digital transformation, AI and cybersecurity ties, including through the Sahel program. Environment: On World Plastic Pollution Day, Kuwait’s Environment Public Authority and local dive teams urged faster action to stop plastic waste reaching Kuwait Bay, citing major cleanup efforts. Diplomacy: India’s EAM S. Jaishankar begins a Gulf tour including Kuwait from July 5, then heads to New York to launch India’s UN Security Council bid. Economy & Markets: Boursa Kuwait reported a 14.9% jump in liquidity in June, while NBK Wealth and Gulf Bank picked up major next-gen and innovation awards. Transport: Kuwait Airways launched commercial flights to Nice twice weekly as part of its Summer 2026 expansion.

UN Diplomacy: Kuwait urged the UN Security Council to take a firm stance against repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain, calling them violations of international law and stressing Kuwait will not allow its territory for hostile launches. Regional Security: Pakistan told the UNSC it has stepped up diplomatic engagement to prevent wider conflict after the attacks, warning escalation would worsen humanitarian suffering. Hormuz Watch: Iran warned oil tankers to follow Tehran-approved routes or face “immediate and forceful” action, keeping shipping and energy security concerns alive even as talks continue. Oil & Markets: Gulf oil exports rebounded in June, with combined crude and condensate flows rising to about 10.07m bpd, though still far below pre-war levels; oil prices stayed mostly steady as traders weighed fragile US-Iran peace hopes. Kuwait Housing: Kuwait set a 90-day deadline for applicants of government rental housing to update their data, warning applications could be cancelled if they miss the window. Kuwait Health/Compliance: Kuwait shut seven healthcare facilities over serious violations and unlicensed treatments. Local Business Law: Kuwait’s new KPC decree-law drew legal analysis on how it may reshape contracting rules and governance in the oil sector. Environment: KEPS warned plastic pollution is threatening marine ecosystems and food security, urging stronger waste management. Consular Services: India said its missions in Kuwait (and others) still provide limited consular services while outsourcing partners are paused due to court proceedings.

Kuwait Security: Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior arrested 10 drug suspects in seven cases, seizing 20,000 Captagon pills plus hashish, methamphetamine, psychotropic capsules and cash, as part of a major anti-narcotics drive. Housing Update: Kuwait set a 90-day deadline for applicants of government-owned rental housing to update their personal data with the Public Authority for Housing Welfare, warning that failure could lead to cancellation. Health Crackdown: Kuwait shut seven private healthcare facilities for serious violations, including unlicensed practice and improper medical procedures, and referred a medical centre for further legal action. Environment Watch: The Kuwait Environment Protection Society warned that plastic pollution is harming marine life and human health, citing millions of tons of plastic entering oceans each year and the rise of microplastics. Regional Tensions & Diplomacy: The UN Security Council saw sharp exchanges after Iranian drone and missile attacks hit Bahrain and Kuwait, with the US envoy telling Iran it “will not silence” the council. Oil & Shipping: With hopes for a fragile US-Iran ceasefire, Gulf exports jumped in June and Kuwait’s output rose sharply, while oil prices stayed in a tight range. India-Kuwait Links: India said its missions in Kuwait (and others) still provide limited consular services, while outsourcing operations remain paused due to a court case.