The International Monetary Fund has lowered its 2026 growth forecast for Gulf Cooperation Council economies, citing the conflict with Iran and prolonged shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The interruptions are weighing on energy exports and economic activity beyond the oil sector.
Iranian Revolutionary Guards Strike Third Supertanker in 48 Hours in Strait of Hormuz
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has confirmed another attack on a large commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, bringing the number of ships targeted to three in two days. The escalation has intensified concerns over maritime security along a vital international energy shipping route.
UN Verifies More Than 1,000 Palestinian Deaths in Gaza Since Ceasefire Collapse
United Nations monitors have verified more than 1,000 deaths in Gaza since the latest ceasefire broke down. The UN has renewed warnings about possible war crimes and worsening damage to civilian infrastructure as the conflict continues.
Saudi Arabia Extends Riyadh Airport Closure After Houthi Missile Attacks
Saudi authorities have extended the closure of King Khalid International Airport following the interception of three Houthi ballistic missiles aimed at Riyadh. Regional airlines, including Etihad, Qatar Airways and Riyadh Air, have suspended services amid heightened security concerns.
Israeli Government Rejects Supreme Court Ruling on Return of Displaced Palestinians
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said displaced residents of a Palestinian refugee camp will not be allowed to return, despite a Supreme Court ruling permitting their return. The decision has raised concerns about a confrontation between the government and the judiciary.
UK Intelligence Chief Warns of Growing Iranian and Russian Operations on British Soil
The head of Britain’s domestic intelligence service has warned that Iranian and Russian operatives are intensifying activities targeting critical infrastructure and dissidents in the United Kingdom. The warning reflects growing concerns about the spread of overseas conflicts into British domestic security.
Syria Accuses Israel of Arming and Financing Militias in Southern Suwayda
The Syrian government has accused Israeli intelligence services of providing weapons and financial support to armed groups in the southern province of Suwayda. Damascus alleges the assistance is intended to destabilise the border region amid escalating military tensions.
EU Approves Military Training Mission for Lebanon Following Explosives Seizure
The European Union has authorised a specialised training mission for the Lebanese Armed Forces following the seizure of illicit explosives by Lebanese security services. The materials were reportedly linked to regional assassination networks, adding to concerns over domestic security.
SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son Reportedly Seeks $100 Billion From Gulf Investors for New Fund
SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son is reportedly approaching Gulf sovereign wealth funds to raise as much as $100 billion for a new technology investment vehicle. The fundraising effort is expected to highlight early returns from the original Vision Fund as SoftBank seeks fresh commitments from state-backed investors.
Singapore’s Temasek Plans Abu Dhabi and Riyadh Offices to Expand Gulf Investments
Singapore state investor Temasek plans to establish a permanent presence in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh by early 2027. The offices will support closer investment cooperation with major Gulf sovereign funds, including Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
UAE and Thailand Conclude Trade Agreement Talks After Bilateral Commerce Surges 75%
The United Arab Emirates and Thailand have concluded negotiations on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement after non-oil trade between the two countries rose 75% to more than $10 billion. The agreement is expected to deepen commercial ties and strengthen the UAE’s role as a logistics hub for Southeast Asian exports.
UAE Banks Raise Deposit Interest Rates to Attract Funds Amid Regional Conflict
Banks in the United Arab Emirates have increased deposit interest rates to attract and retain domestic savings as regional geopolitical tensions unsettle financial markets. The measures are intended to support banking liquidity and maintain confidence during a period of heightened economic uncertainty.
Saudi Arabia Reports 31% Rise in AI Business Registrations
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Commerce has reported a 31% increase in registrations for artificial intelligence businesses. The growth comes as the government expands initiatives to develop domestic computing capabilities, digital infrastructure and advanced technology industries.
Saudi Arabia Signs $359 Million Rail Deal to Double Intercity Passenger Fleet
Saudi Arabia Railways has finalised a $359 million procurement agreement to double its intercity passenger train fleet by 2029. The expansion is intended to improve domestic transport connections, support tourism and reduce reliance on air travel within the kingdom.
Saudi Arabia Opens Two-Month Residency Regularisation Window for Yemeni Workers
Saudi Arabia has introduced a two-month programme allowing undocumented Yemeni workers to regularise their residency status. The initiative aims to address labour and immigration challenges affecting Yemeni nationals living in the kingdom amid the continuing conflict across the southern border.
UAE Introduces Stricter Limits on Sugar, Salt and Fat in Prepared Foods
The United Arab Emirates has introduced new nutritional regulations restricting sugar, salt and fat levels in commercially prepared foods. Businesses that fail to comply could face financial penalties exceeding $130,000 as authorities tighten public health requirements.