AGP Executive Report

Gulf Security Shock: The US and Iran traded fresh strikes as Trump said the ceasefire is “over,” warning more attacks could hit “civilian infrastructure” and Kharg Island; Iran retaliated by targeting Gulf states including Kuwait, where the armed forces reported intercepting 3 ballistic missiles, 1 cruise missile and 10 drones, with one injury from falling debris. Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Shipping traffic through Hormuz plunged again amid renewed fighting, with maritime data showing far fewer transits and more vessels going “dark,” while the IMO urged ships to avoid the route unless safety is assured. Regional Diplomacy: Gulf states stepped up coordination with multiple consultations and calls, including Kuwaiti outreach with Qatar and broader condemnation of Iranian attacks. Local Updates: Kuwait also moved ahead on digital services, including e-signature activation via the My Identity app and new Sahel payments for state property dues. Residency & Courts: Kuwait recorded 11,700 new residency violations in 2025 and sentenced three Egyptians to 7 years and fines over a KD 3.46m funds scam. Transport & Business: Kuwait announced short road closures in Salmiya and near Kuwait International Airport, while the Commerce ministry pushed a digital platform to curb fraud and improve oversight.

Gulf Security: Kuwait condemned repeated Iranian attacks after its air defenses intercepted 3 ballistic missiles, 1 cruise missile and 10 drones; one person was injured by falling debris, and the army urged residents not to approach or share images of remnants. Regional Diplomacy: Kuwait hosted Iraqi FM Fuad Hussein and discussed boosting security and coordination, while Kuwait’s foreign minister also held calls with Saudi and Qatar counterparts as Gulf states stepped up coordination amid the escalation. U.S.-Iran Escalation: The wider conflict intensified as Trump said the ceasefire is “over” and warned of more strikes, while Iran retaliated by targeting U.S.-allied Kuwait and Qatar, raising fresh fears for the Strait of Hormuz and regional stability. Digital Services: PACI made it easier to activate e-signatures via the Huwaiti app/My Identity, and the Finance Ministry launched Sahel payments for state property dues. Culture & Community: Zain Kuwait sponsored “Watani,” a live orchestral celebration of Kuwait’s musical heritage marking the 65th anniversary of independence. International Cooperation: Kuwait’s FIU joined the Egmont Group meeting in Azerbaijan and signed cooperation memoranda to strengthen anti-money laundering efforts.

Gulf Security Update: Kuwait sounded missile alert sirens as its air defenses intercepted hostile drones and missiles, with the Kuwaiti Army saying any blasts heard were from interception operations and urging residents not to approach debris or share photos online. US-Iran Escalation: The flare-up follows fresh US strikes on Iran for a second straight day, with President Donald Trump saying the interim ceasefire is “over” and warning the US could hit again “very fast,” while Iran retaliated by targeting US-linked bases in Kuwait and Bahrain. Regional Diplomacy: India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Kuwait’s FM Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah to discuss the Gulf conflict’s impact and review cooperation across energy, trade, defense, technology, food security and health. Digital Services: Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior launched a new Sahel app service letting expats obtain a Residence Permit Proof Certificate digitally. Food Safety Crackdown: Kuwait’s food authority shut an unlicensed restaurant operating from a private residence in Farwaniya, warning residents to avoid unregulated outlets. Transport & Hospitality: Kuwait Airways partnered with BNK Automotive to upgrade its new VIP lounge experience with premium vehicles.

Gulf Security: Kuwait condemned repeated Iranian attacks and said its air defences intercepted two ballistic missiles and 13 drones entering Kuwaiti airspace early Wednesday, with no casualties; debris damaged overhead power lines but essential services continued after restoration. US-Iran Escalation: Hours after Trump said the US-Iran ceasefire was “over,” the US carried out another round of strikes on Iran, warning more could come “very fast,” while Iran claimed attacks on U.S.-linked sites in Kuwait and Bahrain. Oil & Markets: The Strait of Hormuz flare-up pushed oil prices sharply higher and rattled regional trading, with renewed fears of disruption to global energy flows. Local Governance: Kuwait Municipality launched a campaign to remove encroachments on state properties across six governorates, warning of strict enforcement after a voluntary deadline ended. Housing: PAHW’s Women’s Housing Committee held a lottery allocating 205 homes in Sulaibiya and Taima, with plans to require updated applicant records. Diplomacy & Business: India’s Jaishankar met Kuwait’s Crown Prince and officials, discussing energy, trade, defence and technology; Kuwait and Ukraine also explored deeper private-sector cooperation. Youth & Finance: Boursa Kuwait will host CODED Academy’s UNICODE program, while Weyay Bank backed the “Choose Your Major” campaign.

Gulf Security: Air raid sirens sounded in Bahrain and Kuwait again as Kuwait’s air defences intercepted “hostile” missile and drone attacks, with the Kuwaiti Army saying any blasts were from mid-air interceptions. Diplomacy & Condemnation: Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned Iran’s “repeated aggressions,” calling them a violation of sovereignty and international law, and urged de-escalation while stressing Kuwait’s right to protect its security. US-Iran Escalation: Trump said the Iran MoU is “over” as the US carried out strikes on more than 80 Iranian targets after attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz; Iran’s Revolutionary Guards retaliated by targeting US military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait. Energy Markets: The renewed fighting pushed oil prices up sharply, with Brent rising to around $76 a barrel, while markets reacted nervously. Local Impact: Kuwait reported a power outage after technical issues at the Al Khiran substation, with restoration underway in affected areas. Finance Watch: Kuwait’s finance ministry said the FY 2025-2026 deficit widened 13.2% to 7.1 billion dinars. Regional Ties: Indonesia and Kuwait began talks to deepen cooperation between their state news agencies (ANTARA and KUNA).

Crime & Justice: Kuwait’s MoI says an Asian cleaning worker was arrested after fatally stabbing a compatriot at Al-Razi Hospital in Kuwait City; the suspect allegedly confessed the attack followed a dispute and that a knife was recovered. Investigation Update: In another case, authorities say an Indian resident found buried in the Al-Salmi desert was linked to a workplace incident; one suspect was arrested and a second is being sought after a confession about a crane-related death and a cover-up. Diplomacy: Kuwait’s FM met Japanese and Greek counterparts in Ankara to discuss bilateral ties and regional developments, while Kuwait’s ambassador presented credentials to Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides. Defense & Society: The Kuwaiti army opened volunteer military enlistment to women, with eligibility rules including age, fitness, no criminal record, and a diploma. Public Safety Rules: MoI reminded businesses that CCTV installation is mandatory under Law 61/2015, with footage retention for 120 days. Trade & Security: Customs seized 18kg of hidden tobacco at Nuwaiseeb and arrested an Indian national; Commerce shut two Al-Ahmadi shops over 2,059 counterfeit items. Digital Services: Drivers can now download an electronic copy of their license via the Sahel app. International: Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar arrived in Kuwait for talks on trade, investment, energy security, and consular cooperation.

Hospitality Milestone: Sheraton Kuwait marked 60 years since opening in 1966, celebrating its role as the first Sheraton outside the US and a long-time home for weddings and major events. Oil & Shipping Watch: Saudi Arabia is considering expanding an East-West crude pipeline to the Red Sea, with talks that could help move more oil without crossing Hormuz—Kuwait is mentioned as a potential beneficiary. Public Safety & Justice: Kuwait’s Court of Appeals upheld acquittals in a fatal Fourth Ring Road hit-and-run after prosecutors failed to prove the required fault. Road Incident: One person died and another was seriously injured in a crash on the Al-Abdali border road. Crime Crackdown: Interior arrested a gang tied to stealing 400 tons of KOC marine cables (KD 420,000), involving insider access, forged documents, and impersonation. Drugs & Deportations: Four expats face deportation and a return ban after alcohol and marijuana possession cases. Market Oversight: Commerce inspectors issued 35 violations and closed a grocery store over expired cosmetics, unlicensed activity, and subsidized food sales. Digital Trust: Kuwait is stepping up efforts against AI-driven misinformation after authorities detected around 200 violations during recent attacks. Emergency Funding: Kuwait launched a $100m emergency fund to speed repairs to conflict-damaged infrastructure.

Public Safety & Enforcement: Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry stepped up inspections, issuing 35 violation reports and closing a Farwaniya grocery store for selling expired cosmetics, unknown-origin goods and subsidized food. Water Updates: The Electricity and Water ministry warned Riqqa, Fahad Al-Ahmad and Sabahiya of reduced water supply on Wednesday, July 8, during an eight-hour network maintenance. Sea Security: The Kuwaiti Army announced three days of naval live-fire drills from July 7-9, urging fishermen and boat owners to avoid designated sea zones. Customs Crackdown: Customs seized 481 cartons of cigarettes hidden inside a heavily modified vehicle at Nuwaiseeb Port. Crime & Courts: Criminal investigators dismantled a KOC marine-cable theft network worth about KD 420,000, involving forged papers and an insider role. The Court of Appeals also upheld acquittals in a fatal Fourth Ring Road hit-and-run, citing lack of proof of negligence. Regional & Foreign Policy: Kuwait launched a $100m emergency response fund to repair infrastructure damaged during the Iran conflict. Sports & Culture: ABK and Suffix signed to launch the ABK Tour cycling race (2026-2028), while Burgan Sports Club plans a ceremony after winning the 2026 Asian Handball Championship.

Emergency & Security: Kuwait launched a US$100m Emergency Response Fund via KFAED to finance repairs to infrastructure damaged in the Iran conflict, urging government and private contributions. Oil & Energy: OPEC+ agreed to raise output by 188,000 bpd in August; Kuwait’s August production is set at 2.66m bpd, while reports say Kuwait’s crude output is rebounding faster than expected after Strait of Hormuz disruption. Transport Rules: New Interior regulations tighten car and motorcycle rental oversight, requiring bilingual contracts, detailed records, and internal cameras for driver-provided rentals. Public Safety: A 48-hour crackdown logged 4,629 traffic violations; radar speeding and seat-belt breaches led, with vehicles impounded and some detentions. Food Inspections: GFNA ordered closures of two slaughterhouses, a café, and a biscuit factory over hygiene and licensing violations. Women & Work: Kuwait opened military volunteering opportunities for women and PAM clarified the midday work ban can be adjusted by climate conditions. Economy & Markets: Boursa Kuwait reported a 14.9% June liquidity rise to about KWD 2.131bn. Justice Updates: Kuwait amended juvenile and bankruptcy laws to speed court processes and reduce delays.

Oil Market: OPEC+ partners including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq and Kuwait agreed to raise output by a combined 188,000 barrels per day starting August 2026, with Kuwait’s August target set at 2.66 million bpd. Energy Recovery: Reuters and Bloomberg reports say Kuwait has been restoring production faster than expected after Strait of Hormuz disruptions, with output rising sharply through June and force majeure notices lifted by KOC. Heat Rules: Kuwait’s manpower authority confirmed the midday open-area work ban stays 11:00am–4:00pm from June 1 to Aug 31, with possible timing/duration adjustments based on climate. Airport Update: Kuwait International Airport is operating again, but Terminal 1 remains closed for repairs; Kuwait Airways and Jazeera are using other terminals. New Legal Moves: Kuwait amended juvenile and bankruptcy laws to speed court processes, and updated rules on travel ban orders and on vehicle/motorbike rentals, including contract requirements and security cameras. Social & Youth: Kuwait reviewed progress on the UN Women, Peace and Security agenda, while Zain honored top high school graduates and Markaz will sponsor UniCODE 2026. Sports: Kuwait’s doubles pair won gold at the Morocco tennis tournament; Burgan appointed Yaqoub Al-Mousawi as handball coach. Security/Health: Interior arrested a man for promoting marijuana via social media; Basra human rights groups urged action for Iraqi women stranded in Kuwait after citizenship revocation.

Judicial Reform: Kuwait amended its Juvenile Law to speed up juvenile court handling, allowing a juvenile court of three judges (with social work experts mandatory in trials) and reshaping the juvenile appellate circuit. Business & Debt Rules: New Bankruptcy Law amendments add flexibility in forming bankruptcy courts and circuits to cut delays. Civil Procedures: Kuwait also widened who can approve travel ban orders, aiming to reduce backlog and speed decisions on debtor cases. Transport Oversight: New rules tighten vehicle and motorbike rental compliance, requiring bilingual contracts, detailed renter records, and internal cameras for rentals with drivers. Public Safety & Security: Kuwait reported a major drug crackdown with 10 arrests and seizures including 20,000 Captagon tablets and hashish. Domestic Violence Update: Justice figures show a 27% drop in spouse abuse and no waivers for family sexual assault. Oil & Economy: Kuwait’s crude output reportedly jumped sharply in June as Gulf exports recovered. Regional Diplomacy: Kuwait urged the UN Security Council to act firmly over Iranian attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain. Health & Daily Life: Shingles vaccination expanded for adults 50+ and immunocompromised adults 18+.

UN Security Council Clash: Kuwait denounced repeated Iranian attacks on its territory and civil infrastructure, urging the UN to act firmly after June 28 strikes that also hit Bahrain. Domestic Violence Reform: Justice Minister Nasser Al-Sumait said domestic violence cases fell 33% in the first three months after the Family Protection from Domestic Violence Law, with no waivers for sexual assault within families. Oil & Governance: KPC approved new promotion and salary benefit rules for new oil-sector employees, while legal analysis flagged Decree-Law No. 67/2026 as reshaping KPC contracting and oversight. Public Safety & Courts: Appeals courts handed a Kuwaiti 10-year jail term over Hezbollah and IRGC links; separate rulings upheld penalties including a PACI bribery case involving forged expatriate address changes. Drugs Crackdown: Interior arrested 10 suspects in seven cases, seizing 20,000 Captagon tablets and hashish. Health & Living Costs: Shingles vaccination expanded to adults 50+ and immunocompromised adults 18+, and the 2026/27 budget keeps KD244.7m for cost-of-living support. Business & Travel: Kuwait Airways launched flights to Nice; Boursa Kuwait reported a 14.9% liquidity rise in June. Regional Humanitarian Issue: Iraq’s human rights body urged action for Iraqi-origin women stranded in Kuwait after citizenship revocations.

UN Security Council Pressure: Kuwait urged the UN to take a firm stance after repeated Iranian attacks on its territory, airspace and civilian infrastructure, calling them violations of international law and sovereignty. Oil & Exports: Kuwait’s crude output jumped to about 1.65 million bpd in June (up to 1.9 million bpd in late June) as Gulf export traffic improved following the US-Iran interim understandings. KPC Law Impact: Al-Itqan Legal Group said Kuwait’s new KPC Decree-Law No. 67/2026 could speed contracting decisions via exemptions, while keeping oversight through post-audits and banning local/commission agents in future KPC contracts. Drug Crackdown: Kuwait police arrested 10 suspects and seized 20,000 Captagon pills plus hashish, methamphetamine and cash in a major anti-narcotics drive. Housing Data Deadline: New rules for government rental housing require beneficiaries to update documents within 90 days or risk having applications cancelled. Health Update: Kuwait expanded its shingles vaccine programme to all adults 50+ and immunocompromised adults 18+. Municipal Clean-up: Mubarak Al-Kabeer teams removed abandoned vehicles and boats and issued violations during hygiene and road-occupancy inspections.

UN Security Council Clash: US Ambassador Mike Waltz sharply rebuked Iran’s UN envoy, telling Tehran “you will not silence” the Security Council after Iranian claims and amid drone and missile attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. Anti-Drug Crackdown: Kuwait police arrested 10 drug suspects and seized 20,000 Captagon pills plus hashish, methamphetamine, psychotropic capsules, and cash linked to trafficking. Housing Rules Update: Kuwait’s housing rental applications now require beneficiaries to update documents within 90 days of notification, or PAHW can cancel the application. Health Campaign: Kuwait expanded its shingles vaccine program to all adults 50+ and adults 18+ with weakened immune systems, with doses available at preventive clinics and main hospitals. Corruption Case: A PACI employee received five years with hard labor for bribery and forging expatriate residential address records, with additional sentences and deportation orders for others. Weather Alert: Weekend heat is expected to hit 46–48°C, with dust possible. Oil Watch: Reuters reports Kuwait’s crude output jumped to about 1.65 million bpd in June, rising to as high as 1.9 million bpd in the last 10 days. Telecom Expansion: Zain won a 20-year Syria telecom license in a $747m deal, aiming to launch its Syria brand in early 2027.

Housing & Data Compliance: Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Welfare will keep government rental applications valid only if beneficiaries update their documents within 90 days of notification, or PAHW can cancel the application and remove it from records. Public Health: Kuwait expands its voluntary shingles jab to all adults 50+ and adults 18+ with weakened immune systems, with access through 40 preventive clinics and main hospitals. Court & Corruption: A PACI employee was sentenced to five years with hard labor and KD 340 in fines for bribery and forging documents to change expat addresses; a middleman and three expatriates also received prison terms, with deportation ordered for the expatriates. Weather Watch: Weekend heat is set to hit extremely hot daytime highs around 45–48°C, with warm nights and dust risk in open areas. Energy Update: Kuwait’s crude output jumped to about 1.65 million bpd in June, rising to as high as 1.9 million bpd in the last 10 days, as Gulf exports recover after the US-Iran interim peace agreement. Education Milestone: Grade 12 top achievers were honored by the Amir and Education Minister, with about 120 students recognized for 2025–26 results. Sports & Youth: Kuwait Volleyball Federation approved new working committees, while Kuwaiti coach Walid Al-Anzi joins Montenegro’s U18 and U20 handball youth staff as a fitness and conditioning coach. Esports: Kuwait Esports Club launched the Kuwait Game Development Championship with Kuwait University, offering prizes up to KD 3,000. Municipal Clean-up: Mubarak Al-Kabeer teams removed abandoned vehicles and boats, issued violations, and replaced waste containers to improve neighborhood cleanliness.

Education Spotlight: Kuwait’s Education Minister Jalal Al-Tabtabaei honored about 120 top 12th-grade students for 2025-26, praising Amir, Crown Prince and PM support for investing in human capital. Academic Milestone: Kuwait also marked a rare feat as three students scored 100% in Grade 12 exams despite last semester’s shift to online learning. Banking & Innovation: NBK was named a leading FinTech enabler in Kuwait by The Fintech Times, highlighting its digital banking foundations. Sports Administration: The Kuwait Volleyball Federation approved new working committees ahead of the 2026-27 season, while Kuwait’s national volleyball team continues preparations in Cairo. Handball Abroad: Kuwaiti coach Walid Al-Anzi joined Montenegro’s youth handball staff as a fitness and conditioning coach. Oil & Trade: Kuwait’s crude output jumped sharply in June to 1.65mn bpd as Gulf shipping and Strait of Hormuz flows recover after the US-Iran interim deal. Labour Updates: PAM said 27,141 expat workers benefited from the June grace period to switch sectors early. Public Services: Kuwait Municipality removed 11 abandoned cars and other clutter in Mubarak Al-Kabeer, and issued cleanliness/road-occupancy violations. Digital Life: Interior launched drone ownership registration via the Sahel app. Travel & Safety: Jazeera Airways will add flights to Damascus to four daily from July 14.