AGP Executive Report

Expo 2030 Riyadh: Bahrain has signed its Participation Contract and moved into the planning and implementation phase, setting the terms for its national pavilion, public programmes and visitor experiences, with a sustainable pavilion planned to remain after the Expo. Regional diplomacy: Saudi Arabia will host the second EU-GCC summit on Oct. 24, bringing together EU leaders and GCC states including Bahrain to deepen political and economic cooperation. Security & shipping: Bahrain is again in the crosshairs of the US-Iran escalation narrative, with GCC condemnation of Iranian missile and drone attacks that reportedly hit Bahrain and wider disruption risks around the Strait of Hormuz. Air travel impact: Aviation advisories warn airlines to avoid parts of Persian Gulf airspace around Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE until Sept. 30, raising the odds of longer routes and delays. Sports (Bahrain): Bahrain’s Asian Games delegation is finalising preparations, with elite judokas named for Aichi-Nagoya and volleyball, basketball and 3x3 teams preparing for continental qualifiers and tournaments. Youth & economy: Bahrain’s Expo-linked and youth-focused activity continues, alongside local business support efforts such as trader space planning around major events.

US-Iran Escalation Hits Bahrain Region: Iran fired missiles and drones at Kuwait and claimed strikes on US bases in the UAE, as Bahrain and other Gulf states reported interceptions and condemned the attacks. Wedding Strike Probe: US Vice President JD Vance said Washington is investigating a deadly strike on an Iranian wedding, with weapons experts telling Reuters the blast was likely a direct hit by a US munition; Iran says the attack was a “war crime,” while the US says it never targets civilians. Regional Fallout for Oil and Travel: Renewed hostilities pushed oil toward its biggest weekly gain since July, while flight disruptions spread across the UAE and Bahrain as airlines warned of short-notice changes. Bahrain Sports & Youth: Seef’s 3x3 team heads to Kaohsiung for a Challenger event, Bahrain’s U18 athletics squad departs for Cairo’s Arab U18 Championships, and Bahrain’s U20 campaign continues after a late defeat to Jordan. GCC Youth Sports Cooperation: Qatar took part in a GCC youth and sports ministers meeting in Manama, with plans including a Gulf youth creativity award expanding into generative AI and data cybersecurity. Tech & Business Push: Tamkeen-backed Bahraini firms are set for LEAP Riyadh, and Bahrain’s banks association named an independent judging panel for its Digital Innovation Awards 2026.

Regional Security: Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan were again in the firing line as Iran and the US exchanged heavy strikes, with Kuwait reporting intercepted Iranian missiles and drones and Bahrain among those condemned by GCC officials. Diplomatic Contacts: Bahrain’s King Hamad held calls with Jordan’s King Abdullah and discussed regional escalation and ways to strengthen coordination. Expo 2030 Riyadh: Bahrain signed its Participation Contract for Expo 2030 Riyadh in Manama, formalising plans for its pavilion and visitor programmes. Labour Market Enforcement: LMRA carried out 3,152 inspection campaigns in August, detaining 77 irregular workers and deporting 543. Food Security & Agriculture: Bahrain hosted the 38th GCC Committee meeting on agricultural cooperation and food security, focusing on unified regulations and emergency preparedness. Public Policy: A bid to give Muharraq councillors a formal say over shisha cafés was rejected, with the ministry saying existing smoking and planning rules already cover licensing and locations. Culture & Tourism: Bahrain Fort led heritage visits with 246,409 of 393,536 total visits in Jan–Aug 2026. Digital & Economy: Bahrain pushed AI leadership themes, while a Shura Council member urged GCC-wide action to treat cyber attacks as modern warfare. Sports: Bahrain’s basketball and volleyball calendars featured key Asian Games and AVC events, alongside Bahrain’s first-ever Asian track cycling medal.

Iran-US Escalation: The latest US strikes on Iran left Tehran saying 18 dead and 108 wounded, with Iran retaliating by firing missiles and drones at US bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq’s Kurdistan region and the UAE. Bahrain Security: Bahrain reported intercepting Iranian aerial attacks, as the wider Gulf region braces for more strikes. Hormuz Under Strain: Trump again floated renaming the Strait of Hormuz as “Trump Strait,” while both sides trade claims over control of the waterway amid mine threats and shipping risks. Regional Fallout: Kuwait said its air defences intercepted an Iranian missile and drone attack, and travel advisories across the region warned of disruption and heightened risk. Royal Youth Training: King Hamad visited the Gadeha “Up to the Challenge” Junior Training Camp, praising discipline and leadership skills for Bahrain’s youth. Sports: Bahrain’s men’s volleyball team begins its AVC continental campaign in Japan, facing Australia, defending champions Japan, and Gulf rivals Oman in Pool A.

GCC Security Coordination: Bahrain hosted the 30th commanders’ meeting of GCC air forces and air defence forces, with discussions focused on joint cooperation and upgrading systems to face shared threats. Iran Attacks, Bahrain Response: Bahrain’s air defences intercepted and destroyed several Iranian aerial attacks targeting civilians, while the Foreign Ministry condemned the renewed missile and drone strikes as a violation of sovereignty and international law, calling for UN action to stop the aggression and protect freedom of navigation. Maritime Fallout: Bahrain and Saudi Arabia condemned Iran’s attack on the Saudi-flagged tanker Sidr in the Strait of Hormuz, killing two Filipino crew members and raising fresh shipping-safety concerns. Regional Condemnations: Kuwait reported a drone-triggered fire at a residential complex brought under control with no injuries, and also condemned the tanker attack; Qatar similarly condemned Iran’s strikes on Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan and urged immediate cessation. Economy & Governance: Bahrain’s Finance Minister met Lulu Group’s chairman, stressing food security and supply-chain efficiency; Bahrain’s Public Prosecution also announced fines and deportations for work-permit fraud tied to fictitious establishments. Tourism & Events: Bahrain’s Tourism Minister met UFI leadership ahead of the 93rd UFI Global Congress in November.

Bahrain Security & Civil Defence: Bahrain’s Defence Force said its air defences intercepted and destroyed several Iranian drone and missile attacks aimed at civilian areas, urging residents to avoid suspicious debris and report it immediately, while warning that targeting civilians violates international humanitarian law. Regional Escalation: The renewed US-Iran exchange of strikes has widened across the Gulf, with Iran claiming attacks on US-linked sites in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Iraq’s Erbil, and the US saying it hit IRGC air defences, radar, maritime assets and mine-laying capabilities. Diplomatic Reactions: Qatar condemned Iran’s attacks on Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait as breaches of sovereignty and international law, calling for an immediate halt and a return to dialogue. Public Alerts for Americans: Seven US embassies issued security alerts to Americans in the region, warning of unforeseen escalation and possible flight and travel disruptions. Energy & Markets: Oil prices rose as Hormuz shipping traffic fell sharply, adding pressure to regional economies and risk appetite.

US-Iran Escalation: The US launched a fresh wave of strikes on IRGC targets around the Strait of Hormuz after Iran’s reported attacks on shipping and US personnel, with President Trump warning Tehran not to retaliate. Regional Fallout: Iran’s military spokesperson said it would no longer “exercise restraint” regarding Bahrain and Kuwait, while Bahrain condemned renewed Iranian attacks on regional targets. UN Diplomacy: UN chief António Guterres met Iran’s president on the sidelines of the SCO summit; the UN readout focused on humanitarian and economic impacts but did not mention executions or alleged torture. Bahrain-UK Ties: The UK chargé d’affaires met Bahrain’s Economic Development Board leadership to discuss strengthening investment and cooperation under the UK-GCC trade framework. Workforce & Business: Alba marked record OJT participation for Bahraini trainees; NBB launched a multi-currency debit card campaign with travel prizes. Governance & Services: NHRA cut medical device registration documents and processing times; Shura’s services committee backed legislative updates for the new academic year. Environment & Regulation: SCE issued wildlife decisions including a falcon passport system and bans on myna and crow trade with an amnesty. Sports & Youth: StartUp Bahrain Pitch crowned “Cogman” and “Luma,” while Bahrain’s youth sports and handball qualifiers continued across the region.

Bahrain-Jordan Diplomacy: Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani spoke with Jordan’s Ayman Safadi by phone, stressing deep bilateral ties and condemning Iran’s attacks on Jordan, with Bahrain pledging solidarity and support for Jordan’s sovereignty and security. Regional Security: Bahrain also condemned renewed Iranian attacks that violated Jordan’s airspace and backed UN Security Council action to compel Iran to comply with international law and reduce escalation. GCC Cyber Focus: The Central Bank of Bahrain and the National Cyber Security Centre ran a financial-sector cybersecurity awareness workshop on securing data in the AI era, pushing safer practices across the digital economy. Workplace Safety Compliance: Bahrain reported near-total compliance with the summer outdoor work ban after 30,246 inspections, with only six companies found in violation. Biodiversity Rule Change: Bahrain banned the import, possession, sale and breeding of mynas and crows of all species, citing threats to native wildlife. Education & Royal Message: King Hamad issued a back-to-school message ahead of the 2026/2027 academic year, with parent orientation set across government schools. Industrial Integration: Bahrain is preparing to host the inaugural “Made in GCC 2026” forum and exhibition (Oct 6-8) at Exhibition World Bahrain, aiming to showcase local manufacturing and deepen GCC industrial integration. Aviation Disruptions: Emirates and other carriers adjusted schedules amid regional tensions, with Bahrain-bound flights affected and passengers urged to check updates.

Regional Diplomacy: Bahrain’s FM Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani spoke with Jordan’s Ayman Safadi by phone, stressing deep bilateral ties and condemning renewed Iranian attacks on Jordan. Iran-U.S. Tensions: Bahrain also condemned renewed Iranian drone attacks on the UAE, calling them a breach of international law and urging UN Security Council action, while reiterating the need to protect freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. GCC Health Cooperation: Bahrain hosted the 12th preparatory meeting of GCC health ministry undersecretaries ahead of the ministers’ session, reviewing agenda progress and drafting recommendations. GCC Media Agenda: Bahrain’s information minister will join the Arab Media Summit in Dubai (Sept 15-17), as ministers discuss the media industry’s shift driven by AI and digital platforms. Cybersecurity & Finance: The CBB and NCSC ran a cybersecurity awareness event for financial services on securing data in the AI era. Digital Identity: Beyon Connect integrated LuLu Exchange Bahrain into the revamped eKey 2.0 ecosystem for eKYC via Bahrain’s Digital Authentication of National Identity platform. Legal/Religious Debate: MPs proposed jail and fines for publicly insulting Islamic figures, including online posts, to curb sectarian incitement. Aviation Safety: EASA extended its Gulf conflict-zone flight warning for Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE and Oman until Sept 30. Environment Rules: Bahrain will ban import, possession and trade of myna birds and crows, with jail and fines for breaches.

Regional Security: The UAE said it responded to a drone approaching from Iran, while Iran claimed it launched dozens of drones at the UAE’s Al Minhad air base near Dubai and denied missile-hit reports; the wider backdrop is six months of US-Iran clashes with Gulf bases including Bahrain repeatedly in the firing line. Escalation Watch: Iran said it struck US military positions in Jordan after US action on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz, as Jordan reported intercepting eight missiles and both sides traded claims of damage and casualties. Diplomacy & Strategy: Iran’s President Pezeshkian told reporters it is “not looking for war” but vowed a “decisive response” to aggression as tensions flare again around Hormuz; meanwhile, PM Modi is set to meet Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Bishkek. Bahrain Governance & Services: LMRA has digitised and accelerated Golden Residency work-permit renewals, cutting processing to an immediate automated step and reducing paperwork and approval steps. International Cooperation: Bahrain Space Agency CEO Dr Mohammed Al Aseeri attended NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launch, highlighting Bahrain’s Artemis-linked space ties. Local Politics & Society: King Hamad received UK Chargé d’Affaires Simon Martin and discussed deepening Bahrain-UK cooperation, and also backed the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance ahead of the inaugural international award judging. Business & Economy: BENEFIT completed integration between Bahrain’s BCRB and Oman’s “Mala’a” credit bureau, expanding cross-border GCC corporate credit data access. Sports (Bahrain): Bahrain’s youth handball team eyes gold in Amman after securing a world-championship berth, while Bahrain’s senior volleyball team continues preparations in South Korea ahead of the AVC continental championship.

UK-Bahrain Talks: King Hamad met the UK’s Chargé d’Affaires Simon Martin to discuss deepening cooperation and the UK’s role in regional security. Youth & Governance: Ministers visited Gadeha Junior Camp to review programmes for youth development, while the Shura Council hosted “Joy of Knowledge” participants to learn how Bahrain’s legislative process works. Space Cooperation: Bahrain Space Agency CEO Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri attended NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Telescope launch, pointing to Artemis Accords as a boost for Bahrain’s space ambitions. Energy Talent Pipeline: Bapco Energies wrapped its NextGen Power Camp for 100 Grade 11 students under the NBH Future Energy Leaders programme. Finance & Digital Services: BENEFIT completed integration linking Bahrain’s credit bureau with Oman’s “Mala’a” to expand GCC credit data access; BCFC also rolled out upgrades to AI assistants “Suhail” and “Suhaila” in the Sahel app. Legal/Policy Update: A royal decree revised eligibility for Bahrain’s special passports, tightening categories for former officials and raising the military rank threshold. Public Safety & Environment: Smart cameras helped cut speeding offences by 67.1% since 2021; Bahrain also topped global black carbon cuts in a key 2026 index measure. Sports: Bahrain begins AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers against Tajikistan, and the senior men’s basketball team looks to keep its winning start in FIBA Asia Cup pre-qualifiers. Court & Enforcement: Bahrain seized 226 pieces of 18-karat gold jewellery for lacking official hallmarks, and prosecutors moved a refrigerator theft case to trial. Rights Watch: A human rights group released a report on Bahrain citizenship revocation procedures and their impacts.

Bahrain–Algeria Solidarity: Manama sent condolences to Algeria over deadly forest fires, pledging full support and wishing recovery for the injured. Bahrain Security: The Anti-Narcotics Directorate arrested eight people at Bahrain International Airport over an alleged 17kg drugs smuggling attempt worth about BD235,500, with cases referred to the Public Prosecution. Courts: A nurse convicted of stealing BD25,700 from a disabled elderly patient and laundering the funds has appealed her money-laundering sentence. Municipal Governance: Officials urged Bahrain to upgrade traffic lights to “intelligent” systems that adjust to real-time conditions, instead of fixed cycles. Digital Permits: Bahrain launched a pilot Building Information Modelling (BIM) phase to speed building permits and improve engineering data accuracy, starting in Diyar Al Muharraq, Salman City and the Bahrain International Investment Park. Worker Support: ICWA’s “Thirst Quenchers” summer campaign wrapped up after reaching 4,500+ outdoor workers with hydration and heat-safety awareness. Diplomacy Through Sport: Bahrain and South Korea marked 50 years of ties with a volleyball friendly in Seoul, while Bahrain’s youth handball team reached the Asian youth final after beating Iran.

Digital Permits: Bahrain pilots Digital Building Information Modelling (BIM) to speed building permit reviews by using digital models and integrating with the “Benayat” licensing system, starting in Diyar Al Muharraq, Salman City and BIIP. Anti-Narcotics: Bahrain’s Anti-Narcotics Directorate arrested eight suspects in two airport-linked cases over 17kg of narcotics worth about BD235,500; cases were referred to the Public Prosecution. Investor-State Disputes: Bahrain’s Foreign Affairs legal chief highlighted the Kingdom’s dispute-settlement approach at a Senior Legal Counsels Forum in Singapore, including amicable mechanisms and international arbitration, while discussing reforms to investor-state dispute settlement. Workplace Safety Drive: ICRF Bahrain wrapped its 11th “Thirst-Quenchers 2026” summer campaign, delivering cold drinks and heat-safety guidance to 4,500 outdoor workers across 11 weekly sessions. Diplomatic/Regional Context: The US began a phased return of diplomats and some family members to West Asian embassies after six months of the Iran war, including Bahrain, with age limits in place. Food Sector Leadership: Ghitha appointed Mahmood Zainal as CEO to lead the next phase of growth for Bahrain’s food ecosystem. Animal Welfare Rule Proposal: BSPCA urged regulated permits and designated feeding points for residents who feed stray animals, to balance compassion with public cleanliness.

Iran-US standoff: Six months into the war, Iran’s leadership has tightened control around hardline military commanders and clerics, appointing figures like Hossein Taeb to the Basij and warning Washington of “seismic” retaliation as economic pressure grows. US diplomacy shift: After early evacuations, the US has begun a phased return of diplomats and some family members to Middle East embassies; Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar announced family returns (with Bahrain/Kuwait limited to adults 18+). Regional security: Despite a fragile US-brokered ceasefire, Israeli strikes killed Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, underscoring how the wider conflict keeps destabilising the region. Bahrain travel & services: Dubai International Airport is operating normally, while Emirates and other airlines report a mix of cancellations and delays affecting Bahrain routes—check before flying. Bahrain finance & governance: Bahrain’s Solowin received the Central Bank of Bahrain’s stablecoin licence (first under the framework), and Parliament challenged attempts to ban sheesha served to customers in parked cars, saying action needs a clear published legal prohibition. Humanitarian & community: BRCS marked World Humanitarian Day and Bahrain hosted an Al Fareej heritage festival plus a back-to-school event for young cancer patients. Sports: Bahrain youth handball booked youth world qualification and Bahrain’s handball and basketball teams notched key wins in Asian qualifiers.

Bahrain Sports & Youth Momentum: Bahrain opened its FIBA Asia Cup 2029 pre-qualifiers campaign with a dominant 106-62 rout of Oman, led by Mustafa Rashed’s 21 points, as the team eyes a second-round spot. Local Football: Al Khaldiya kicked off the 2026-27 Nasser bin Hamad Premier League in style, thrashing Al Najma 7-2, while Sitra beat Malkiya 3-0 in stoppage-time goals. Criminal Justice: Bahrain’s Fifth High Criminal Appeals Court upheld a one-year prison term and BD1,000 fine for forging documents to unlawfully obtain Tamkeen and Social Insurance support, and also replaced a flour-subsidy prison sentence with community service (fine and confiscation kept). Public Safety: Authorities warned residents about fake social media posts impersonating accounts to promote unconfirmed concerts, urging people to use official Bahrain event pages. Regional Diplomacy & Media: UAE adviser Dr Anwar Gargash urged accurate, balanced reporting amid regional tensions, as misinformation spreads fast. Business & Finance (Bahrain-linked): Gulf International Bank received Central Bank of Bahrain approval to realign its retail banking in Bahrain, exiting consumer services via meem digital banking while assuring support for customers during the transition.

Iran War Off-Ramp: Qatar’s PM Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani pushed for de-escalation in Tehran as another Strait of Hormuz tanker attack was reported, while Iran dismissed new US sanctions and discussed an Iran-Oman plan for safe passage and mine clearance. US Sanctions Push: Iran urged the UN to condemn Washington’s “economic terrorism” under its expanded “Economic Outcast” campaign targeting Iran’s financial links and key sectors. GCC Cybersecurity: Bahrain hosted the GCC ministerial cybersecurity meeting, adopting “essential” and “data” controls and reviewing the GCC cybersecurity strategy’s 2024-2028 execution. Labour Market Enforcement: Bahrain’s Public Security chief met LMRA leadership to intensify joint inspection campaigns and speed up action against labour violations. Bahrainisation Debate: MP Dr Muneer Seroor called for tighter work-permit controls and role-matched training to create sustainable Bahraini jobs. Court Updates: A forged-record fraud case tied to Tamkeen and social insurance ended with a upheld jail term and fine; a subsidised-flour conviction saw a prison sentence replaced with community service. Sports & Youth: Bahrain opened FIBA Asia Cup 2029 pre-qualifiers with a 106-62 rout of Oman; youth handball and volleyball squads continued continental preparations and qualifiers. Humanitarian & Community: Bahrain expressed solidarity with Nepal after deadly floods; a youth “Al Fareej” festival launches across governorates, and Rescat announced September fundraising for rescued cats.