AGP Executive Report

US-Iran De-escalation Track: Oman’s PM said the US-Iran MoU is laying groundwork for ending the war and setting a negotiation track, with a 60-day roadmap and a framework for technical and political talks. Hormuz Maritime Focus: Oman and Iran stressed keeping the Strait of Hormuz safe for navigation as Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf met Omani officials in Muscat, while US Vice President JD Vance said talks created a “good foundation” for a final deal. Sanctions Relief for Oil: The US Treasury issued a broad 60-day general license allowing Iranian oil production, delivery and sales, tied to commitments on free transit through Hormuz. Oman Economy & Finance: Oman’s central bank raised OMR43mn via treasury bills, and Duqm refinery output helped boost regional refining gains. Local & Regional Safety: Oman reiterated solidarity with Qatar after the Ras Laffan gas facility explosion that killed 12 Indians. Education Update: CBSE told India’s Supreme Court it has framed a new evaluation policy for Gulf Class XII private candidates affected by exam cancellations.

Foreign Residency Update: Oman has amended Foreigners Residence Law executive regulations to make residency easier for foreign property owners and investors, including visa options without a local sponsor for eligible land buyers and expanded benefits for spouses, first-degree relatives and corporate legal representatives. Security & Borders: Royal Oman Police arrested 22 Asian nationals after they tried to enter Oman illegally via a fishing boat in North Al Batinah. Economy & Budget: Oman reported public revenues of OMR 12.122bn in 2025, with a smaller budget deficit of OMR 461m, helped by higher oil and gas receipts; VAT and tax/fee collections also rose. Trade Snapshot: Oman’s trade balance stayed in surplus in Q1 2026 at about OMR 1.54bn, though oil and gas export values fell. Development Watch: Development spending in 2025 hit RO 1.577bn, and Duqm’s SEZAD flagged about $1.39bn in tourism and power projects; Bukha Waterfront is nearing completion at 95%. Regional Shipping: US-Iran talks in Switzerland advanced a 60-day roadmap and a communications line for Hormuz safe passage, but uncertainty remains as Iran and the US trade conflicting claims.

Strait of Hormuz Watch: Despite Iran’s claims of closure, shipping trackers and US Central Command say oil and merchant traffic kept moving through the waterway over the weekend, as JD Vance and Iranian officials met in Switzerland to push a fragile interim peace deal—while Germany warned against any toll system and stressed free passage under international law. Oman Budget & Economy: Oman’s 2025 public revenues rose 8% to OMR12.12bn, with spending up 7% and the deficit narrowing to about OMR461m, alongside steady trade surplus figures. Renewables & Energy Access: Oman’s APSR will launch its first community solar power station under the ‘Imtidad’ programme, letting residents and organisations benefit via credits on electricity bills. Digital Oman: NCSI is set to roll out ‘Artaj’, an interactive data management app, and TRA amended radio spectrum and device registration rules to support modern telecom services. Tourism & Local Growth: Barka’s waterfront and marina projects are nearing completion, while Salalah hotels are gearing up for Khareef 2026. Weather: NCM forecasts rain in parts of western coastal areas on Tuesday and possible fog/light fog later in the week.

Oman Health & Services: Suwaiq Hospital marked a milestone with Oman’s first specialised spinal surgery, after a Khoula Hospital team performed a three-hour operation to widen the spinal canal and stabilise multi-level fractures following a serious traffic accident. Oman Digital Government: NCSI will launch the “Artaj” interactive app, the State Administrative Apparatus Coordination Portal, and a Central Data Repository on Wednesday to boost data integration, statistical literacy, and digital transformation under Oman Vision 2040. Oman Energy & Community Solar: The “Imtidad” programme will roll out Oman’s first community solar power station, Al Wadi Al Kabir, letting residents and organisations subscribe for bill credits without installing panels. Oman Sports & Culture: Ahmad Al Harthy targets momentum at Spa 24 Hours after a strong Monza podium, while Oman’s Khareef season is set to kick off with a packed tourism calendar. Regional Trade Watch: The Strait of Hormuz remains in focus as Iran and the US trade claims over closures and tolls, with shipping traffic and oil flows still under uncertainty.

Strait of Hormuz Shock: Iran says it has closed the Strait of Hormuz again, blaming alleged US and Israeli breaches of a new ceasefire MoU tied to Lebanon, while the US Central Command insists traffic is still flowing and forces are monitoring. US Toll Fight: Trump escalated the dispute on Truth Social, saying there will be no Iranian tolls during a 60-day ceasefire period, but warning tolls could follow after it ends unless a deal is completed. Lebanon Frontline: The latest flare-up in southern Lebanon followed Israeli strikes, with an IDF soldier killed and 13 injured in a Hezbollah attack. Oman Business & Markets: Oman’s World Competitiveness ranking improved to 25th in 2026, and the Muscat Stock Exchange index fell 52 points amid selling linked to OMIFCO’s IPO. Education Links: Oman and Arabian Gulf University discussed expanding higher education, student support and research cooperation. Consumer Watch: Oman’s Consumer Protection Law guidance reiterates strict rules on clear price display and no charging above advertised prices.

Duqm Waterfront Push: OPAZ unveiled a master plan for Duqm’s 31 sq km waterfront, pitching luxury tourism, housing and leisure, with targets of 2,600+ hotel units and 3,700+ residential units by 2040 to draw private investment. Capital Markets: Bank Nizwa is acting as a collecting bank for Omifco’s IPO, supporting subscriptions for the sharia-compliant share sale of 25% of capital on the Muscat Stock Exchange. Trade Numbers: Oman logged an OMR1.54bn trade surplus in Q1 2026 as imports fell faster than exports, with oil and gas exports down year-on-year. Digital Services: The Oman Business Platform added new self-service features like data correction and ownership transfer via visual documentation, aiming to streamline commercial procedures. Salt Industry Expansion: Oman’s salt sector is set for a major upgrade with $1bn+ investments, higher-purity production and downstream manufacturing such as bromine and soda ash. Regional Shipping Watch: Iran introduced new Strait of Hormuz transit rules requiring permits, registration and insurance details, while UKMTO lowered the threat level to “moderate” and said the southern route near Oman remains open. Migration Crackdown: In Yemen’s Al-Mahra, police dismantled a network smuggling irregular African migrants into Oman, arresting eight suspects and seizing light weapons.

Green Hydrogen Boost for Oman: ACME Group will invest about USD 4.2bn to expand its Duqm green hydrogen and ammonia project, adding phases 2 and 3 across roughly 80 sq km under agreements with Hydrom and SEZAD/OPAZ. Hormuz Shipping Watch: After the US-Iran MoU, oil and tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is rising, with 25 commercial crossings reported on Thursday, but hundreds of ships still wait and mines remain a concern. New Strait Rules Raise Stakes: Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority says vessels need permits submitted 48 hours in advance and must carry approved insurance, with future “insurance fees” possible after the 60-day period. Diplomacy Hits a Snag: US-Iran talks in Switzerland were postponed as fighting in Lebanon flared, while Iran’s deputy foreign minister said Tehran is ready to move forward step by step if Israel respects the MoU. Oman UN Tolerance Push: Oman’s UN envoy highlighted the Muscat Plan and national efforts to combat hate speech and promote coexistence. Omanhash Launched: Oman introduced Omanhash, a mandatory national Bitcoin mining pool for licensed operators.

Strait of Hormuz Update: The US lifted its naval blockade of Iran and shipping began moving again after the US-Iran interim deal took effect, but the main lane is still blocked by about 80 mines, meaning normal transit won’t return until clearance is completed. Oil & Markets: With Hormuz reopening, oil prices slid further and tankers started testing routes; traders are watching whether more cargoes can move safely and quickly. Shipping Rules Under Scrutiny: A key dispute remains over whether future Hormuz passage fees/tolls could be charged after a 60-day no-charge period, with Iran and Oman set to define future maritime services. Oman Local Angle: Oman is directly tied to the strait’s future administration talks, while the Central Bank of Oman is also pushing ahead with its CBDC programme, preparing an independent assessor. Court Case: Saudi Fisheries Company won a ruling against an Omani firm for breach of a fish supply contract. Maritime Tragedy: The remains of Indian engineer Patnala Suresh, killed in the MT Settebello attack off Oman, arrived in Visakhapatnam as families demanded answers and support.

US-Iran Deal & Hormuz Reopen: The U.S. lifted its naval blockade on Iran and tankers began moving freely through the Strait of Hormuz as the interim ceasefire took effect, while Vice President JD Vance said more than a dozen ships have already been cleared to Iranian ports and oil flows are restarting; Energy Prices: Oil slid to three-month lows and gas prices in the U.S. fell below $4 as markets priced in easing disruption; Iran’s Strait Rules: Iran said it will suspend Strait of Hormuz fees for 60 days for merchant vessels, with passage handled via the Persian Gulf Strait Authority; Oman Angle: Oman’s foreign minister discussed regional developments with Germany, including support for the MoU’s aim to protect safe maritime navigation through Hormuz; Regional Diplomacy: South Africa welcomed the MoU as a step toward ending hostilities, while the UAE pushed ahead with plans to reduce dependence on Hormuz via port and pipeline expansion.

US-Iran Ceasefire MoU: The US and Iran signed a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding to end hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and start a 60-day push toward a final deal, with the US lifting its naval blockade within 30 days and Iran ensuring “safe passage” for commercial vessels for 60 days. Nuclear Talks Deferred: The nuclear and sanctions details are set for follow-up negotiations, while the UN nuclear watchdog welcomed the agreement and said technical work begins now. Oman VAT Clarification: Oman’s Tax Authority clarified VAT calculation for oil and gas and government invoices where a 1.2% training and employment deduction applies—VAT is calculated first on the full invoice value, then the deduction is applied. OMIFCO Diversification: Oman India Fertiliser Company outlined plans to diversify beyond urea and ammonia into higher-value and lower-carbon chemical products as it advances its IPO. Muttrah Cable Car & Parking: Muttrah’s cable car project is about 90% complete, with trials expected later this year, as tourism and development grow but parking and access remain a key challenge. Markets & Royal Decree: Muscat Stock Exchange closed lower as trading value fell, and His Majesty Sultan Haitham issued a Royal Decree amending GCC insurance protection for citizens working abroad.

US-Iran Ceasefire Framework: The US has released the full 14-point “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding” outlining an immediate end to military operations, a 60-day negotiation period, and steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz—while warning the deal is not final and military action could resume if Iran “doesn’t behave.” Shipping & Energy Impact: The MoU calls for lifting the US naval blockade and restoring maritime traffic toward pre-war levels, with toll-free passage through Hormuz for 60 days (but future fees not ruled out), helping ease oil prices after hopes of renewed Gulf shipping. Iran Nuclear Talks Deferred: The toughest issue—how to handle Iran’s nuclear program—gets pushed to the next phase, leaving lawmakers and analysts skeptical about whether a final agreement will hold. Oman Link in the Text: Iran commits to dialogue with Oman on future administration and maritime services for Hormuz, reflecting Oman’s role in regional safe navigation. G7 Diplomacy & India’s Push: At the G7, leaders backed the framework; PM Modi urged Trump to prioritize seafarer safety after recent attacks involving Indian crews. Media Rights: beIN renewed its Wimbledon broadcast deal across MENA through 2030.

Oman–Iran Diplomacy: Oman’s foreign minister met Iran’s Abbas Araghchi, reaffirming commitment to safe, free maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz and adherence to international law, amid hopes that US-Iran understandings will support regional stability. Green Industry Push (Duqm): SEZAD invited bids for a master plan consultancy for Duqm’s Green Metals Zone, Green Manufacturing Zone and silica-based projects, with submissions due 14 July 2026. Power Project Deal: Doosan Enerbility secured a $385m EPC contract for Oman’s 870MW Duqm gas-fired power plant, targeting completion in 2029. Tourism Calendar: Khareef Dhofar 2026 will run 21 June–21 September with 125 cultural, tourism and sports events across Dhofar. Maritime Tragedy (Settebello): The Indian Embassy in Muscat said the remains of two seafarers killed in the MT Settebello attack have been repatriated to India. Digital Law Awareness: Oman’s Government Communication Centre held an awareness forum for influencers and content creators on legal frameworks for digital publishing and licensing. Energy Market Watch: The IEA said a Hormuz recovery could shift oil markets toward a supply surplus in 2027, though demining and transit arrangements still pose risks.

Oman-Iran Diplomacy Under Pressure: The White House is escalating pressure on Oman to sever diplomatic ties with Iran over claims Muscat may have helped impose Strait of Hormuz vessel fees, warning of sanctions and possible force. Hormuz Reopening Talks: Iran and Oman’s foreign ministers reaffirmed commitment to international law for safe, free navigation as the US-Iran memorandum nears signing in Switzerland; still, shipping remains a trickle and insurers and shippers warn it could take weeks or months to normalize. US-Iran Deal Details: Reports say the interim framework includes lifting the naval blockade, waivers for Iranian oil exports, and a 60-day path toward a wider settlement, while Trump insists Iran will not get a nuclear weapon. Maritime Safety at G7: PM Modi raised seafarer deaths linked to the Gulf crisis at the G7, calling for secure sea routes and urging protection for maritime workers. Oman Economy Watch: The IMF praised Oman’s resilience and reform momentum, projecting stronger growth in 2026. Local Business: Oman Fisheries Company’s board resigned amid a liquidity crunch, while Oman also moved ahead with private-sector vehicle inspection services and new Khareef flight capacity.

Oman Business Relief: Oman’s Government Communication Center announced a package of facilitative measures to cushion geopolitical shocks on firms, including capped electricity tariffs for food-security sites at 12 baisas/kWh until Dec 2026, support for six months of maritime transport of food imports from Indian ports, and temporary relief on rebar import duties and tourism levy collections. Hormuz Pressure on Muscat: The White House is escalating pressure on Oman to sever diplomatic ties with Iran, alleging Muscat may have helped Tehran impose fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz—an issue that could raise shipping costs and ripple into global prices. Shipping Still Hesitant: Even with talk of a US-Iran interim deal to reopen Hormuz, shipping leaders warn normal flows could take weeks or longer, with minesweeping and safety checks delaying full resumption. Energy Rumours Denied: India’s Petroleum Ministry rejected reports of a Middle East–India deep-sea pipeline linking Gujarat with Oman, saying there are no active discussions with Oman. Tourism Update: Muttrah Cable Car is 90% complete, with trial operations planned for December, as Oman pushes ahead with tourism projects. Sports: Oman Sail’s Optimist team is set for the 2026 Optimist World Championship in Morocco.

Oman-US-Iran Diplomacy Pressure: The White House is ramping up pressure on Oman to cut ties with Iran, citing claims Oman could help Tehran impose fees on Strait of Hormuz shipping—an issue that could raise global fuel and food costs. Strait of Hormuz Ceasefire Update: The US and Iran say a memorandum of understanding has been signed to end the war and reopen Hormuz toll-free for 60 days, with a Friday Geneva signing and unresolved details still clouding long-term operations. Oman’s Official Position: Oman’s Cabinet welcomed the US-Iran understanding, stressing a balanced, neutral role and commitment to maritime safety and freedom of passage under international law. Shipping Relief, But Caution: Relief is spreading for seafarers and markets, yet analysts warn oil flows may take weeks or months as ships, insurers, and captains sort out safety and backlog. Local Governance & Society: Royal directives advance women’s representation in the Shura Council, and Oman confirms the Muharram crescent moon for June 16. Maritime Incident Closeout: All 20 Indian crew members of MT Jalveer, evacuated after an attack off Oman, have safely returned home, thanking Omani authorities and the Indian embassy.

US-Iran Framework Peace: The US and Iran say they’ve reached a framework to end the war, lift the US naval blockade, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with a signing set for June 19 in Switzerland; Trump says passage will be toll-free, while Iran says it will regulate the route with Oman—leaving details and future tolls still disputed. Oman’s Strategic Role: A new report claims the White House is pressuring Oman to sever ties with Iran over intelligence that Muscat may have helped shape Hormuz fee arrangements, warning of sanctions and possible force. Markets Watch Hormuz: Oil prices slid sharply on the news, with Brent dropping toward the mid-$80s and analysts warning the “nothing is straightforward” phase could bring complications. Maritime Safety Off Oman: Royal Oman Police arrested 19 Asian nationals attempting illegal entry near Barka. Khareef Dhofar Ready: Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority confirmed operational readiness for Khareef Dhofar 2026, boosting Muscat–Salalah capacity with more daily flights by Oman Air and SalamAir. Business & Mobility: Europcar Oman & Bahrain highlighted its premium airport hospitality concept in Muscat, while Digital Projection appointed Axion Displays as its EMEA partner including Oman. Rescue Update: India’s embassy in Muscat said 20 crew members of MT Jalveer were safely evacuated and repatriated after the June 11 incident off Oman.