AGP Executive Report

Maritime Rescue in Oman: A dhow/Indian-flagged vessel, Virat 1, began sinking off Oman after engine failure near Ras Al Hadd; the US Navy coordinated the response, and all 14 Indian crew were rescued and moved to MV Jabal Ali 9 heading to Mumbai. Oman Port Death & Repatriation: India’s embassy in Muscat confirmed the death of Nishanth Uirthanathan aboard MT Celestial at Duqm Port due to medical complications, with efforts underway to repatriate his remains. Gulf Security & Shipping Rules: India’s DG Shipping told recruitment and placement firms to restrict sending Indian seafarers to Gulf conflict areas, citing recent incidents around the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman. Oman-China Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi met China’s Middle East envoy Zhai Jun, stressing dialogue and the safety of maritime navigation through Hormuz. Environment: Oman’s plastic shopping bag ban enters its fifth phase from July 1, expanding restrictions to more retail activities. Regional Politics: Trump said a US-Iran deal is “very close” and urged Israel not to derail talks, while Iran circulated differing versions of the proposed framework.

Maritime Rescue in Oman: An Indian-flagged vessel, Virat 1, with 14 Indian crew members, was reported in distress off Oman’s coast, with search and rescue coordinated by Omani authorities and nearby ships, while the US Navy supported the response. Seafarer Death at Duqm Port: The Indian Embassy in Muscat said an Indian national, Nishanth Uirthanathan, died of medical complications aboard MT Celestial at Duqm Port, with repatriation arrangements under way. Hormuz Tensions: Iran’s IRGC warned ships to avoid transiting the Strait of Hormuz, while the US reiterated that commercial vessels must comply with its orders and that blockade violations won’t be tolerated. India-US Political Fallout: Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge attacked PM Modi over India’s response to the deaths of three Indian sailors in US strikes near Oman, accusing the government of silence and failing to defend sovereignty. Oman Tourism: Oman’s key summer festival in Al Jabal Al Akhdar is set for a mid-July launch, running through August. Local Business & Tech: Omantel and PwC Middle East launched CISO100 Oman to train the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.

Oman Under Pressure on Hormuz: The White House is escalating pressure on Oman to sever diplomatic ties with Iran, citing intelligence that Muscat may have helped impose fees on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, with threats of sanctions and force if Oman does not comply. Maritime Tensions Spill Into Diplomacy: India is in a fresh stand-off with the US after three Indian seafarers were killed in strikes off Oman; EAM Jaishankar spoke with Marco Rubio, calling lethal attacks on commercial shipping “not justified,” while the US warned blockade violations won’t be tolerated. Oman Connectivity Boost: Oman Air and SalamAir announced new summer routes, including Muscat–Singapore and Muscat–Sochi, plus Muscat–Tashkent and Dubai–Salalah, expanding travel options for business and tourism. World Blood Donor Day: Oman marked June 14 with a push for voluntary, regular blood donation, citing a rise in collected blood units at Bausher. Health Focus: Oman urged stronger colorectal cancer prevention as cases rise, highlighting lifestyle changes and screening. Environment Update: Oman’s Environment Authority granted a six-month grace period for radiation-related activities to regularise licensing. Sports: Qatar held Switzerland 1-1 in the World Cup, with Boualem Khoukhi scoring late. Business & Culture: Oman continues to grow its esports footprint, with Zain Esports powering the PUBG MOBILE MENA championship across seven countries.

Oman-India Maritime Safety & Diplomacy: India’s MEA dismissed fresh claims of an attack on the MT Liaki Freedom off Oman, saying it contacted the vessel’s master and confirmed all crew are safe, while warning against misinformation. US-Iran Tensions Near Hormuz: The US and Iran signalled a deal to end their war is close, with a draft MoU expected to be signed remotely “in coming days,” even as US forces shot down Iranian one-way drones near the Strait of Hormuz and said transit remains open. Strait of Hormuz Stakes: Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi warned Iran may use military assets to secure the strait if needed, saying “our sword will always hang over the Strait of Hormuz,” and that consultations with Oman are underway. Omani Public Initiatives: Oman marked World Blood Donor Day with renewed calls for regular voluntary donation, and launched the UN-backed “Muscat Plan” to tackle hate speech and strengthen social cohesion. Islamic Finance: Bank Nizwa completed Oman’s 11th sovereign sukuk series, drawing about RO250m in orders for a RO120m issuance.

Maritime Security: India has summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks again over repeated US strikes on commercial ships with Indian crews near Oman, after three Indian seafarers were killed this week (MT Settebello), following earlier attacks on MT Marivex and MT Jalveer that led to evacuations and deaths. Diplomatic Pressure: New Delhi says the “lethal and deadly” actions against civilian shipping are unacceptable and has lodged strong protests multiple times in days, while the UN also condemned the tanker strike that killed the three. Hormuz Tensions: As US-Iran talks move toward a possible deal, Iran has threatened to shut the Strait of Hormuz and warned any crossing vessels would be targeted, while Trump accused Iran of drone attacks on Indian ships and Tehran dismissed the claims as baseless. Oman Angle: With Oman at the heart of the Hormuz corridor, regional shipping is on edge as oil flows and insurance costs react to the latest escalation. Global Labour: The ILO adopted a landmark treaty for decent work in the platform (gig) economy, setting binding standards for gig workers worldwide.

Gulf Maritime Crisis: Oman is in the spotlight as the US-Iran standoff keeps spilling into shipping lanes off Oman. India says three Indian sailors were killed after a US strike on the MT Settebello near Oman, while 21 were rescued; New Delhi has summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks and demanded attacks on commercial vessels stop. Diplomacy in Muscat: Oman’s Foreign Minister held talks by phone with the EU’s Kaja Kallas, stressing de-escalation and safe, uninterrupted maritime navigation. Regional Consultations: Oman and Norway held political consultations in Oslo, reviewing bilateral ties and regional issues. Oman Domestic Moves: Royal Oman Police accredited the first private vehicle technical inspection station, set to open June 16, aiming to cut waiting times and expand access. UN Initiative: Oman launched the Muscat Plan of Action at the UN in New York to tackle hate speech and prevent atrocity crimes.

Maritime Tensions in the Gulf: The US disabled a third oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, firing Hellfire missiles at the engine room of MT Jalveer after it allegedly tried to transport Iranian oil; 20 Indian crew were evacuated safely. Indian Crew Fatalities: India confirmed three Indian sailors were killed in the US strike on the Palau-flagged MT Settebello, after 21 were rescued; New Delhi lodged a strong protest and summoned a US diplomat, urging attacks to stop. Strait of Hormuz Pressure: Iran’s IRG ordered the Strait of Hormuz closed to all vessels, while the US said commercial traffic is still operating and accused Iran-linked ships of blockade violations. Trump Iran Pivot: After earlier threats of major strikes and talk of taking Kharg Island, Trump later cancelled planned Iran strikes, saying a deal is near and final points were approved at the highest level. Oman Diplomacy: Oman told the UN Security Council that lasting Middle East peace depends on addressing root causes through political solutions and mediation. Regional Talks: GCC and Canada discussed deepening strategic cooperation in Manama, including responses to regional security challenges. Oman Local Updates: Oman strengthens cultural heritage protections via amendments to the Cultural Heritage Law, and an Oman-Pakistan Friendship Association is set to be inaugurated in Muscat.

Maritime Security in the Gulf: The US renewed strikes on Iran for a second straight day, while Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed to all vessels and warned any ship would be targeted—raising fresh alarm for global energy flows. Oman Shipping Alerts: UKMTO reported a suspicious incident off Sohar where a tanker’s engine room caught fire, with no environmental impact so far; authorities are investigating. Indian Seafarers Tragedy: India confirmed three Indian sailors died after a US “precision” strike on the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello off Oman; 21 were rescued and India summoned a US diplomat to lodge a strong protest. New Vessel Incident Near Oman: India’s embassy said it is monitoring a fresh incident off Shinas port, with details still being gathered. Oman Economy & Regulation: Oman launched an International Financial Centre of Oman (IFC Oman) to attract global investors, and the FSA ordered insurers to meet minimum EV motor insurance underwriting coverage by end-2026.

Gulf Security: The US launched airstrikes on Iran after an Apache helicopter was downed near the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran firing back and hitting US bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan—raising fresh fears of the ceasefire cracking. Oman Shipping Fallout: India says three Indian sailors are missing after a US strike disabled the Palau-flagged tanker Settebello off Oman; 21 were rescued and India summoned the US chargé d’affaires to lodge a strong protest. Hormuz Pressure on Trade: Trump claimed the US secretly escorted more than 100 million barrels through the Strait, while reports say tankers are “going dark” to move oil as tensions keep shipping at risk. Regional Logistics Moves: Türkiye and Saudi Arabia signed transport and railway cooperation deals, with talk of reviving the Hejaz Railway as an alternative route that could reduce reliance on Hormuz. Energy Projects in Oman: Nama PWP issued a tender for supervisory consultancy for a 280MW Marsa LNG solar project, with applications due by 26 July.

Hormuz Tensions: The U.S. began “self-defence” strikes against Iran after a U.S. Army Apache helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz off Oman, with CENTCOM calling the response “proportional” and saying the two crew members were rescued by a Navy drone boat. Iran Retaliation: Iran then warned foreign forces are “at constant risk” and launched attacks on U.S. bases in Jordan and Bahrain, with Jordan reporting it shot down five missiles. Maritime Safety: The IMO chief warned there is no safe passage without credible security guarantees, as ships reportedly try to hide from tracking by disabling AIS. Oman Economy & Investment: Future Oman Fund signed deals worth over RO583m, targeting 2,302 jobs, while MoCIIP reviewed Oman’s construction materials sector and its growth potential. Regional Connectivity: UAE–Oman rail work hit 40% completion, and Türkiye and Saudi Arabia signed railway and transport agreements. Oman in Sports: Hamed Al Wahaibi retained his Challenger lead in the FIA World Baja Cup despite mechanical issues in Baja Greece.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: President Donald Trump blamed Iran for downing a U.S. Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz and said the U.S. “must” respond, as Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi warned foreign forces near Iran’s territory face constant risk and urged them to leave. Oman Coast Rescue: The two pilots were reported safe and uninjured after a U.S. Navy drone boat (Saronic Corsair) carried out a first-of-its-kind sea rescue off Oman’s coast, with the cause of the crash still under investigation. Regional Fallout: The incident comes amid a shaky ceasefire after Iran and Israel exchanged fire, adding fresh pressure on efforts to reopen the vital shipping route. Energy Markets Watch: Oil and gold prices swung on the renewed risk, with markets bracing for possible supply disruptions tied to Hormuz uncertainty. Local Oman Updates: Oman also reported a drone attack on Salalah port that wounded a foreign worker and caused limited damage.

Hormuz Pressure on Oman: The White House is escalating pressure on Oman to sever diplomatic ties with Iran, citing intelligence that Muscat may have helped Tehran impose transit fees on Strait of Hormuz shipping—an issue that could raise global fuel costs if tolling takes hold. Maritime Security in Oman Waters: A Palau-flagged tanker, MT Marivex, was hit in the Gulf of Oman; 24 Indian crew were evacuated safely with help from Omani authorities after a US F/A-18 disabled the vessel for allegedly violating the blockade. Energy Markets: Oil prices slipped after Iran and Israel said they halted attacks, though both warned hostilities could resume, keeping supply-route fears alive. Infrastructure & Investment: Track installation has started on Oman’s Hafeet Rail project linking Sohar Port to the UAE rail network. Oman also signed RO 2.9bn in Duqm Special Economic Zone deals, including major green hydrogen and ammonia plans. Environment & Governance: A new report with Oman’s Environment Authority says stronger environmental governance can improve investor confidence and long-term economic resilience. Heat Alert: Oman continues to face intense summer temperatures, with guidance to avoid direct sun and stay hydrated.

Strait of Hormuz Security: The U.S. disabled the Palau-flagged tanker MT Marivex in the Gulf of Oman after it allegedly tried to evade the Iran blockade; a U.S. F/A-18 fired a precision munition, and all 24 Indian crew were evacuated safely with help from Omani authorities. Oman Weather Watch: Oman is bracing for a hotter, drier summer, with temperatures staying above seasonal averages and rainfall below normal across many regions through June to August. Regional Tensions: Israel and Iran appeared to pause or step back from further strikes after renewed exchanges, though both warned they would retaliate if provoked. Energy Markets: OPEC+ agreed to raise July oil output by 188,000 barrels per day, even as Hormuz-related disruptions keep traders focused on supply risks. Business & Trade: Changan’s new energy vehicle brand DEEPAL launched in Oman, while Oman and Kuwait discussed ways to deepen cooperation, including in cybersecurity and standards.

Middle East Energy Shock: Oil prices jumped more than $4 after fresh Israel-Iran exchanges, with Brent above $97 and WTI above $94 as markets feared longer disruption to crude flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Hormuz Transit Rules: Iran’s ambassador said the strait will reopen under new conditions set by Iran and Oman, including a transit fee—while the US has warned Oman against any toll plan. OPEC+ Output Move: OPEC+ agreed to a fourth straight July quota increase of 188,000 bpd, but analysts say it may not ease supply stress while Hormuz remains constrained. Oman Business & Economy: Oman marked World Accreditation Day, highlighting accreditation’s role in boosting SMEs and trust in quality systems. Energy in Oman: Oman reported natural gas output growth of 4.6% to 18.7721bn cubic metres by end-April 2026. Water Infrastructure: Barka issued EoIs to sell and dismantle two SWRO desalination plants after their water purchase agreements expired. Sports & Culture: Al Zubair and Fuminelli finished sixth and seventh in Misano’s International GT Open; Oman’s Youth Creativity Award winners were recognised in the Gulf’s World of Data event.

Oman Energy & Industry: Nama Power and Water Procurement Company has invited bids for project management and supervision for Oman’s 300MW Marsa Solar IPP, with submissions due July 26. Oman Climate Action: Muscat Municipal Council reviewed progress on net-zero efforts, with the Oman Net Zero Centre outlining plans to cut emissions and build a carbon market platform. Oman Environment & Food Safety: The Environment Authority launched the Oman Environment Atlas for planning and sustainable development, while Oman marked World Food Safety Day with renewed focus on traceability and safer food systems. Oman Governance: Majlis Ash’shura will discuss a proposed draft law on alternative penalties and measures. Oman Business & Services: Kafaah Competence Programme for Manufacturing was launched to help factories adopt lean improvements and pursue Green Belt certification. Regional Energy Shock: OPEC+ agreed to raise July oil output quotas by 188,000 bpd despite the Strait of Hormuz closure, with analysts calling it largely symbolic while shipping remains constrained. Foreign Affairs: Oman reaffirmed solidarity with Bahrain after an Iranian missile and drone attack. Sports: Nepal beat Oman by 8 wickets to reach the Asian Games Men’s Qualifier final.

Cybercrime Crackdown: Oman has issued strict new penalties under Royal Decree No. 61/2026, including jail and heavy fines for online begging and for promoting or selling unlicensed medicines, with doubled punishment for adulterated or expired products. Digital Morality Offences: The same law targets online gambling and pornographic content, with harsher terms when children or people lacking legal capacity are involved. Energy Cooperation: OQEP signed an MoU with Libya’s Investment Authority to boost oil and gas investment and explore joint opportunities. Legal Travel Ease: Sri Lanka will grant free tourist visas to Omani citizens from May 25, 2026 via the ETA system for up to 30 days. Sports (Oman in focus): Oman’s cricket campaign at the Asian Games Qualifiers ended after defeats to Nepal, including an 8-wicket loss in the semi-final. Weather Watch: Oman’s regionally linked heat remains intense, with authorities warning about extreme temperatures and health risks.