AGP Executive Report

Arab League Diplomacy: Kuwait took part as Tunisia assumed the Arab League Council presidency in Cairo, with the agenda focused on Iranian attacks on Arab states, the Palestinian cause and regional developments. Justice & Public Safety: Kuwait’s justice minister said juvenile crimes fell sharply in the first half of 2026, with traffic-related cases down 63% after tougher laws. Charity Oversight: The Social Affairs minister backed a draft decree-law to regulate charitable and humanitarian work, saying governance will protect aid and beneficiaries. Kuwait in the Iran Escalation: Reports said US forces targeted an Iranian tanker near Kharg Island, while Iran claimed missile and drone strikes on US bases in Kuwait and the UAE; Kuwait’s air defences intercepted attacks and the EU condemned the latest regional wave. Humanitarian Diplomacy: Kuwait’s aid efforts were highlighted as “humanitarian diplomacy,” with officials saying charity partnerships now extend beyond relief into recovery. Finance & Markets: Kuwait International Bank priced a $500m senior sukuk, and gold dipped weekly amid shifting US rate expectations and oil-price pressure. People on the Ground: An Indian domestic worker in Kuwait sent an SOS alleging torture and unpaid wages, prompting embassy involvement.

Iran-US Escalation Watch: U.S. intelligence says Iran is growing more confident in striking across the Middle East and may be weighing a bigger escalation, with officials warning a full end to the conflict looks hard to reach. Kuwait Under Fire: Kuwait’s air defences intercepted hostile missile and drone threats, while the Arab League condemned Iran’s continued attacks on Kuwait and backed Kuwait’s right to protect its sovereignty. War of Words in Washington: Trump and JD Vance kept downplaying the Iran fight as “not a war,” even as strikes continue and the conflict drags on. Local Safety & Enforcement: A construction worker was injured after falling into a basement pit in Shuwaikh Industrial Area. Kuwait also reported 32 food-safety violations in Hawally, and MoI said it arrested 41 suspects in a diesel theft ring. People in Focus: India’s embassy intervened after a Tamil Nadu domestic worker in Kuwait posted SOS allegations of torture and unpaid wages. EU-GCC Diplomacy: EU and GCC leaders will meet in Saudi Arabia on Oct. 24 for the second EU-GCC summit. Traffic: A road closure was announced between Bayan and Mubarak Al-Abdullah until Sunday dawn.

Iran-US Escalation and Kuwait: Iran fired missiles and drones at Kuwait, with Kuwait’s Defence Ministry saying air defences intercepted the attacks; the strikes were framed as retaliation after US actions, while US officials said they are investigating reports of a deadly wedding strike in Iran. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar said Iran’s recent attacks were aimed at US military facilities with no civilian targets, while Bahrain condemned the attacks on Kuwait as a breach of sovereignty and called for UN action. Human Stories in Kuwait: A Tamil Nadu domestic worker in Kuwait, Vanitha, was rescued after SOS appeals alleging torture and unpaid wages; authorities traced her family and coordinated her return through the Indian Embassy. Local Enforcement: Kuwait’s Ministry of Health shut four private clinics over licensing violations, including cases where facilities were operated or invested in by unauthorized parties. Business and Jobs: Kuwait City also saw global business ripples, including McKinsey appointing Tarek El Sayed as Middle East managing partner overseeing Kuwait City, and Akasa Air launching direct Mumbai–Hanoi flights with Kuwait City in its network. Energy and Costs: Renewed fighting around the Strait of Hormuz kept oil and fuel prices elevated, feeding into higher costs for consumers and transport.

Iran-US Escalation: Iran says it launched missiles and drones at US bases in Kuwait and the UAE, while Kuwait’s armed forces report intercepting incoming threats; the latest flare-up follows US raids and comes as Washington investigates reports of a deadly wedding strike in Iran. Diplomatic Pushback: Kuwait’s foreign ministry condemned the attacks as a grave breach of sovereignty and reiterated its right to defend itself, as Qatar also slammed the renewed strikes. US Position: US Vice President JD Vance said he “wouldn’t call it a war,” adding the US is investigating the wedding incident and that negotiations won’t resume until Iran stops attacks on shipping. Local Security & Health: Kuwait arrested four in two narcotics cases and cancelled a private clinic’s license over subleasing; the Health Ministry also ran winter-readiness training for nursing staff. Education & Tech: Education approved a secondary school tracks system for 12 schools, while Higher Education signed a deal to digitally verify academic documents. Weather: Kuwait expects hot, humid conditions with temperatures up to 43–45°C and possible light fog.

Iran-U.S. Escalation: Iran’s army says it launched missile and drone strikes on U.S. bases in Kuwait and the UAE, targeting communications, depots, fighter hangars, troop areas and radar systems, as Kuwait reported intercepting hostile missiles and drones and urged residents to follow official safety instructions. Kuwait Condemns Tehran: Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry called the repeated Iranian attacks a grave breach of sovereignty and a direct threat to the safety of citizens and residents, stressing Kuwait’s right to self-defense under international law. Regional Backing: Qatar and the GCC also condemned the renewed attacks, urging an immediate halt to military actions and warning of dangerous escalation across the region. Hormuz Pressure on Markets: With fighting centered on the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices and shipping activity remain sensitive to any disruption fears. Digital Identity Alert: PACI warned My Kuwait Mobile ID users not to approve authentication requests unless they were initiated by them. Local Science & Environment: TSCK held Eco Talks 2026 with EPA partners, focusing on Kuwait’s desert, coastal and marine environment, climate change and conservation. Business/Trade: Port of Duqm welcomed a major Ro-Ro vessel carrying thousands of vehicles, including shipments for GCC markets such as Kuwait.

US-Iran Escalation: President Trump said the renewed US campaign against Iran “won’t last long” after the biggest exchange of fire since July, as Washington struck Iran’s southern coast and Tehran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on US interests and allies including Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. Kuwait Security: Kuwait condemned the Iranian missile/drone wave, saying it violated sovereignty; Kuwait’s Fire Force reported a drone-sparked fire at a residential complex was brought under control with no injuries. Regional Shipping & Hormuz: Qatar also condemned Iran’s targeting of the Saudi tanker Sidr in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a breach of international law and warning that any closure threatens navigation and the global economy. Diplomacy Watch: Pakistan said it remains optimistic about returning to talks despite the escalation. Local Health: Kuwait’s MoH launched the winter vaccination drive against seasonal influenza and pneumonia, urging high-risk groups to get vaccinated. Public Safety: Kuwait issued 30 smoking citations in Al-Mubarakiya and began preparations for smart home vehicle impoundment for serious traffic violations from Sept 6. Crime & Courts: A Kuwaiti man was detained in Jleeb after alleged DUI, assaulting officers and damaging a police patrol car; prosecutors also referred 71 defendants over alleged agricultural land and plot manipulation.

Kuwait-Iran Crisis: Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks at dawn, including a residential complex, calling them a grave breach of sovereignty and UN rules, and reaffirmed Kuwait’s right to defend itself. Regional Escalation: Iran and the US traded strikes again after a monthlong lull, with Iran firing drones at Kuwait and Bahrain and launching missile attacks across the Gulf, while the US hit IRGC targets in Iran. Air Defences & Incidents: Kuwait’s fire force said a drone-hit blaze at a residential complex was contained with no injuries reported. Diplomatic Solidarity: Jordan and Qatar backed Kuwait and Bahrain, condemning the attacks as dangerous escalation and violations of international law. Strait of Hormuz Pressure: The renewed fighting is reviving fears for shipping and oil flows through Hormuz, pushing energy prices higher and disrupting travel in the region.

Regional Security: Kuwait’s General Staff says air defences are actively intercepting Iranian missile and drone threats, with explosions heard across the country linked to interception operations; the public is urged to follow official safety instructions. US-Iran Escalation: CENTCOM reports a completed wave of strikes on Iranian military targets, including air defences and radar systems, after IRGC attempts against shipping in the Strait of Hormuz; Iran retaliated with missiles and drones aimed at US-linked sites in Jordan and Bahrain. Finance & Economy: Kuwait’s Cabinet approved a decree allowing the government to borrow from the Future Generations Fund to support state finances, with strict caps and repayment rules; officials also reiterated Kuwait’s economic resilience amid reforms. Local Governance & Compliance: New rules tighten anti-money laundering and terrorism-financing requirements for gold and real estate sectors, including due diligence and reporting duties. Health & Education: MoH highlights a first-of-its-kind 3D-printed hip joint reconstruction at Jaber Hospital; the Ministry of Education issued a comprehensive new regulation for schooling stability. Business & Events: MEICA Expo 2026 is set for 15–16 September in Kuwait City, bringing 800+ attendees to instrumentation, automation and cybersecurity.

Traffic & Safety: Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower says the seasonal ban on outdoor work in open areas has ended, while employers must keep safe conditions and PAM will monitor compliance. Smart Enforcement: From Sept 6, the General Traffic Department will start “smart home” vehicle impoundment: a device is fitted at the violation site, the impoundment starts at midnight, and drivers can move the car to a designated location; fees are KD 10 to install plus KD 2 per day, with release confirmed via the Sahel app. Municipal Crackdown: Kuwait Municipality expands commercial inspections, warning businesses to hold proper licenses and municipal approvals or face fines and closure. Health Cooperation: The Ministry of Health met Boston Children’s Hospital Alliance to boost pediatric care in Kuwait, including training, clinical governance, and plans for genetic testing capabilities. Regional Links: Kuwait’s envoy presented credentials to Algeria’s president and reiterated condolences over Algeria’s fires. Sports: Kuwait SC edged Qadsia 1-0 with a stoppage-time winner in the Zain Premier League.

Health & Regulation: Kuwait’s MoH tightened rules on cosmetic procedures and set new controls for narcotic/psychotropic medicines, while also creating a cancer epidemiology and registry department at the Kuwait Cancer Center. Public Safety & Crime: The Public Prosecution referred 71 people to court over a major agricultural land graft case involving about KD 8.66 million, plus bribery, forgery and money laundering. Drugs Crackdown: Interior officials honored Drug Control staff after the biggest Lyrica manufacturing/distribution bust in Kuwait’s history. Food Security & Industry: Kuwait opened its first advanced marine hatchery at KISR in Salmiya to boost aquaculture output and cut reliance on imported fingerlings. Local Governance: Government offices will return to regular working hours from Sept 1 after the summer schedule ended. Sports & Youth: Kuwait’s U-20 campaign began with a 4-0 loss to Japan in AFC qualifiers, while Kuwait’s Sports Medicine Center highlighted rehab support for athletes. Culture: The Summer Cultural Festival 18 closed with a musical tribute evening celebrating Arab stars and songs tied to Kuwait. Regional Security: Kuwait condemned renewed Iranian attacks on Jordan and the UAE as Arab states voiced solidarity.

Food Safety Crackdown: Kuwait’s General Authority for Food and Nutrition shut down a Capital Governorate facility after inspectors found spoiled/non-compliant products, including frozen meat being thawed and sold as fresh; 10 violation reports were issued and 134.116kg of bad goods destroyed. Public Health Data Upgrade: The Ministry of Health set up an Epidemiology and Cancer Registry Department at the Kuwait Cancer Control Center to build a national cancer database for better tracking, planning, research and prevention, with ethics approvals required for studies. Defense Diplomacy: Kuwait’s Defense Minister Sheikh Abdullah Ali Al-Salem met UK Ambassador Qudsi Rasheed to discuss ways to strengthen Kuwait-UK military cooperation. Government Work Hours: Kuwait’s Civil Service Commission confirmed regular morning and evening shifts will resume from September 1 after the summer schedule ended. Drug Smuggling Attempt: Kuwait airport customs foiled a plot using 1,603 A4 sheets saturated with a narcotic “chemical,” seized from a French passenger arriving from London. Regional Security & Oil: Fresh US-Iran exchanges around the Strait of Hormuz pushed oil prices up about 2% as tensions over shipping and mines returned to the spotlight.

Iran War Fallout: Six months into the Iran conflict, the US says it is still striking IRGC positions in the Strait of Hormuz after reports of sea-mine rocket preparations, as Washington and Tehran push uneasy de-escalation talks. Judicial Reform: Kuwait issues decree-law 136/2026 cutting minimum service periods for judges and prosecutors to speed litigation and improve efficiency under the new judicial organization law. Local Justice & Safety: A Kuwaiti citizen was detained for allegedly assaulting a Ministry of Defense soldier; police also probe a case where a mother says her ex-husband took their son abroad after missing court-ordered visitation. Health & Services: Al-Amiri Hospital’s Urology Unit wins international “Center of Excellence” accreditation; MoH also amends clinical attire rules for medical staff. Road Enforcement: Traffic campaign records 2,756 violations, impounds 232 vehicles, and arrests wanted persons. Economy & Housing: Progressive fees on undeveloped plots are credited with breaking real estate stagnation and boosting land supply. Sports: Kuwait U-20 starts AFC qualifiers against Japan; Kuwait’s senior handball team trains in Slovenia ahead of the Asian Games; Kuwait Club hosts Qadsia in the Zain Premier League. Travel: SriLankan Airlines resumes full Kuwait service with six weekly flights.

Iran-Gulf Tensions: Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei urged Muslim rulers to unite and identify the “true enemy,” targeting U.S. and Israel, as Gulf states including Kuwait remain on edge six months into the Iran war. Hormuz Watch: The IRGC Navy claimed the Strait of Hormuz is closed to ships without Iranian coordination, challenging U.S. claims of mine clearance and keeping global trade uncertainty high. Kuwait Customs Crackdown: Kuwait Airport T4 officers seized 1,603 narcotic-soaked A4 sheets weighing 13.154kg from a French passenger arriving from London, with the case referred to drug authorities. Workplace Compliance: The Public Authority for Manpower told employers to display the electronic attendance QR code and policy at entrances so inspectors can scan and verify records during visits. Local Health Policy: Kuwait’s Health Ministry cut prices of 517 medicines and pharma products, aiming for the lowest rates in the Gulf and broader access. Defense Cooperation: Kuwait and India held their first joint defense committee meeting in New Delhi, agreeing to expand training, exercises, military medicine, and R&D. Business Banking: NBK expanded integrated business banking and financing solutions to support SMEs and help them grow. Sports Medicine: Kuwait’s Sports Medicine Center highlighted rehab, prevention and testing services for athletes returning to competition.

Health & Cost of Living: Kuwait’s Health Ministry cut prices of 517 medicines and pharma products, aiming to keep them the lowest in the Gulf and ease treatment costs. Local Governance: The Prime Minister inspected the Sulaibikhat Cemetery development plan, urging strict schedule follow-through and better public services. Justice & Economy: Kuwait is moving to speed up commercial disputes by targeting a backlog through specialized economic courts. Business Rules: New delivery regulations starting Sept 1 cap delivery fees at KD 1 and limit platform commissions, putting pressure on the delivery ecosystem. Security & Crime: Hawally police are investigating a burglary after KD 20,000 gold jewelry was stolen from a Kuwaiti doctor’s home; a separate case involves a rosary auction dispute over a KD 300 Misbah. Foreign Affairs & Defense: Kuwait signed a defense and joint military cooperation agreement with Pakistan, and Kuwait and India held their first joint defense committee meeting in New Delhi. Sports: Kuwait beat Nepal 88-65 in Asian Cup qualifiers and won medals at the Asian Junior Bowling Championships; Kazma also opened the Zain Premier League with a 3-1 win over Al-Tadhamun. Transport: King Fahd Road lanes toward Abdullah Al Salem suburb will close for 20 days for repairs.

Public Accountability: Kuwait’s Social Affairs Minister Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila has referred suspected misappropriation of public funds at the Public Authority for Disability Affairs to the Public Prosecution, estimating damage at KD 1.211 million after payments were made for work not fully carried out on site. Kuwait–Pakistan Defence: Pakistan and Kuwait signed the “Protocol Agreement-2026” in Islamabad, formalising wider military cooperation including joint training, intelligence sharing, logistics, defence technology and border management. Diplomacy Watch: UN chief Antonio Guterres urged the US and Iran to resume meaningful negotiations, warning the six-month conflict is worsening humanitarian and economic harm. Regional Security & Travel: US embassies in Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain have begun allowing diplomats’ families to return, with Kuwait and Bahrain limiting it to adults over 18; meanwhile Kuwait International Airport is operating with Terminal 1 still closed for repairs. Energy & Shipping: Kuwait’s oil price rose to $87.44 a barrel; Strait of Hormuz tanker traffic climbed sharply week-on-week, though still far below pre-war levels.

Kuwait-India Defence: Kuwait and India held the inaugural Joint Defence Committee meeting in New Delhi, agreeing to deepen cooperation on training, joint exercises, military medicine, defence industry and R&D. Security & Law: Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior ran a major Mahboula security campaign, recording 790 traffic violations and arresting 109 wanted people, 62 for expired residency, and others over ID, intoxication and narcotics. Human Rights Watch: Amnesty International warned Kuwait’s new counter-terrorism decree could curb freedoms, citing broad terrorism definitions and expanded death-penalty scope. Regional Diplomacy: UN chief António Guterres urged the U.S. and Iran to resume negotiations, saying diplomacy is the only solution. Shipping & Oil: A Kuwaiti oil tanker, Al-Salam II, was hit in the Strait of Hormuz; meanwhile, reports say Hormuz shipping lanes are reopening as risk eases. Local Life: Traffic changes on King Fahd Road near Jabriya run until Sept. 13, with slow/middle lanes closed. Sports: Kuwait’s Salwa Al Sabah women lost in the Fatima bint Mubarak Academy Cup in Abu Dhabi, while Qatar qualified for the 2027 U19 World Handball Championship.