AGP Executive Report

Housing Delivery: Foundation work has started on 69 new homes in Salman Town under the Government Land Development Rights Programme, with units sized 174–261sqm and prices aligned to ministry financing with partner banks. Road Access Relief: Zallaq’s “locked in” Block 1056 could get two new road connections after UPDA confirmed rights-of-way for links to Road 5663/5607 and 5621/5638 near Zallaq Cemetery Mosque. Travel Rules: Bahrain’s tourism authority ordered agencies to immediately stop marketing and offers to Iran and Iraq, citing the Interior Ministry’s travel ban for security reasons. Regional Security: Bahrain says it intercepted and destroyed missiles and drones aimed at civilian sites amid renewed Iran-US tensions; Saudi and Jordan also voiced solidarity after attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. Commercial Justice: A London session under the King Hamad Global Centre for Justice spotlighted Bahrain’s International Commercial Court and dispute-resolution reforms. Sports & Records: Winfred Yavi set a new Bahrain 5,000m national record in Rome, while Al Najma open their Asian Club League campaign against Kuwait Sports Club. Environment: World Environment Day coverage highlights a growing conservation push, including Learn to Grow’s hands-on sustainable living workshops.

Diplomatic Solidarity: Saudi and Bahraini foreign ministers held phone talks, with Riyadh condemning Iranian attacks on Bahrain and reaffirming full support and solidarity, while both sides stressed tighter coordination to protect Gulf security. Regional Security: Bahrain said it intercepted and destroyed missiles and drones it attributed to Iran aimed at civilian sites, as the wider US-Iran standoff continued and the fragile ceasefire faced fresh strain. Arrests and Repression: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry announced arrests of 15 people linked to Iran’s IRGC, while separate reporting said 20 people were detained including five Shia scholars, alongside new restrictions affecting Shia travel and religious pilgrimages. Gulf Flashpoint: Kuwait reported Iranian drone damage to its main airport, killing one and injuring dozens, with flights disrupted then resumed—while Iran and the US traded blame over the incident. Economy & Business: Mumtalakat partnered with French firm TRAIL to invest in the SLAM private equity fund, and Alba agreed to acquire France’s Aluminium Dunkerque for about $2.2bn. Sports & Culture: Bahraini 5,000m runner Winfred Yavi competes in Rome’s Diamond League, and Bahrain’s Royal Guard boxer Prakash Limbu is set for a SAS charity showdown.

Regional Security Crackdown: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry says it arrested 15 people linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, accusing them of inciting directives and social infiltration aimed at pushing youth into illegal acts; investigations and legal procedures are ongoing. Diplomatic Solidarity: UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed called Bahrain’s FM Abdullatif Al Zayani, condemning the attacks and reaffirming the UAE’s full support for Bahrain’s security and stability. Gulf Tensions Escalate: Kuwait reported Iranian drones heavily damaged its main airport terminal, killing one and injuring dozens, while the US and Iran trade strikes and blame each other as a fragile ceasefire strains. Ceasefire Doubts in Lebanon: Israel’s chief of staff said there is effectively “no ceasefire” in Lebanon, as US-mediated talks continue amid Hezbollah resistance. Bahrain’s Regional Role: Bahrain’s parliamentary leadership is preparing for the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union conference, stressing cooperation to support regional stability and safeguard navigation routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Sports Update: Bahrain Volleyball Association officials welcomed referees who completed an Asian referees’ course to qualify for international badges. Cultural Spotlight: Japanese archaeologists say they unearthed a Dilmun royal tomb in Bahrain, potentially the oldest of its kind, with DNA analysis planned.

Gulf Security Shock: Saudi and Jordanian foreign ministers condemned Iran’s attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain, as Kuwait’s main airport was briefly shut after Iranian drones hit the terminal, killing one Indian national and injuring dozens. Bahrain Air Defences: Bahrain’s Defence Force said it intercepted and destroyed three missiles and several drones targeting civilian sites, urging residents to avoid suspicious debris. US-Iran Escalation: The US said it repelled missile and drone attacks and carried out “self-defence” strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island after the latest barrage; Iran’s IRGC claimed it targeted US assets including the Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Travel Disruption: Kuwait suspended commercial flights, with operations later resuming from another terminal as authorities assessed damage. Regional Fallout: Oil prices jumped to fresh highs amid renewed war fears and fragile ceasefire talks. Local Updates: BBK released its 2025 Sustainability Report, while Bahrain reported 16.04 million non-Bahraini arrivals in 2025 and launched youth initiatives including Bayt Lamea in Muharraq.

Gulf Security Escalation: The US and Iran traded strikes overnight, with CENTCOM saying it intercepted Iranian missiles and drones aimed at Kuwait and Bahrain and carried out “self-defense” strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island; CENTCOM also said three one-way drones targeting civilian shipping were shot down and that no US personnel were harmed, while Iran’s IRGC claimed it targeted the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain—claims the US rejected. Travel Restrictions: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry announced a ban on Bahraini citizens travelling to Iran and Iraq until further notice, citing ongoing regional security tensions and warning of legal action for violators. Regional Diplomacy Pressure: The flare-up is tied to stalled ceasefire talks, with reports Iran stopped communicating with mediators, as both sides traded accusations. Business & Investment: BBK reported BD188 million in sustainable finance assets in its 2025 Sustainability Report, while Alba confirmed its acquisition of Aluminium Dunkerque for about $2.2 billion at the Choose France summit. Sports: Barbar ended a seven-year wait to win the 2025–26 Bahrain Handball League, beating Al Ahli 28–26 in the final.

Travel Safety Update: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry has banned citizens from travelling to Iran and Iraq until further notice, citing ongoing regional security tensions and “Iranian aggression,” with violators facing strict legal action. Royal Unity Message: King Hamad praised Bahrainis’ unity and loyalty during a weekly Cabinet meeting at Sakhir Palace, reaffirming the kingdom’s commitment to defend the homeland and protect national cohesion amid regional threats. Major Investment Deal: Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) confirmed it will acquire Aluminium Dunkerque for about $2.2bn, with Bpifrance taking a stake, in a move Alba says supports long-term industrial strategy and European expansion. Local Culture & Community: Chery Bahrain hosted families for Eid Al-Adha’s Hiya Biya tradition, with kids painting and planting their own “goodbye” seedlings as part of a family-friendly showroom activation. Humanitarian & Health: Bahrain’s first CRISPR bone marrow transplant patient for sickle cell recovery, Amjad Kazem Ahmed, shared his slow transition from illness to recovery, highlighting the emotional and physical rebuilding ahead. Sports Tonight: Al Ahli and Barbar meet in the handball league final at 7pm at Khalifa Sports City Arena.

Migrant Workers’ Rights: Human Rights Watch says Bahraini authorities excluded migrant workers from an emergency wage support programme during the Iran conflict, despite their contributions, leaving many facing job losses and unpaid or delayed wages. National Unity & Governance: King Hamad chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting, praising patriotism and unity amid regional threats, while Bahrain’s Shura Council hailed the King’s remarks as a “roadmap” to safeguard sovereignty and sustain development. Fuel Costs Update: Bahrain’s Fuel Price Committee set June 2026 prices effective June 2, with Jayyid (91) at BD 0.233/litre, Mumtaz (95) at BD 0.269/litre, Super (98) at BD 0.362/litre, and diesel at BD 0.229/litre, while continuing diesel support for Bahraini fishermen. Tourism Growth: Bahrain welcomed about 16.04 million non-Bahraini travellers in 2025, up 41% from 2022, signalling a shift toward steadier growth after the post-Covid recovery. Community & Services: BRCS held a “Volunteer with Impact” orientation for new volunteers, and Parliament backed a proposal for a dedicated teacher recruitment database to improve future staffing planning.

Cabinet Update: King Hamad chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting at Al Sakhir Palace, thanking Bahrainis and institutions for backing measures to protect national unity and stability, and addressing the regional impact of Iranian aggression. Security Probe: Bahrain’s Public Prosecution began intensive interrogation of 41 detainees in a security case linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, with charges tied to threats to sovereignty, state safety and alleged financial crimes. Regional Rights Crackdown: Amnesty International says Gulf states have arrested more than 1,000 people over war-related expression, including nationality stripping in Bahrain and Kuwait. Tourism Growth: Bahrain welcomed about 16.04 million non-Bahraini travellers in 2025, up 41% from 2022, showing steady recovery and sustained demand. Strait of Hormuz Shipping: China’s FM said it will keep working with Russia to cool Middle East tensions and called for a ceasefire, ahead of a UN vote on a Bahraini resolution to protect commercial shipping. Eid Events & Culture: Nancy Ajram is set for a major Bahrain concert on June 5 with ticket prices starting from BD10, while Bahrain’s culture authority held an Eid Al-Adha heritage music evening. Sports: Al Ahli and Barbar will meet in the handball league final after semi-final sweeps. Business & Energy: Bapco Energies launched a scholarship and career programme for future energy leaders, with applications opening June 15.

Security & Justice: Bahrain’s Public Prosecution has begun intensive interrogation of 41 detainees tied to a structured network linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, with charges described as targeting Bahrain’s sovereign security and economy. Public Safety: Civil Defence rescued five children after a residential fire in Aali; authorities say investigations are ongoing, warning that Bahrain’s summer heat and overloaded electrical systems can trigger serious incidents. Education & Jobs: Parliament’s Services Committee backed a proposal for a dedicated teacher recruitment database to forecast staffing needs and speed up hiring, while the Civil Service Bureau says recruitment already follows existing civil service rules. Energy & Youth: Bapco Energies launched the NBH Future Energy Leaders scholarship and career programme, with applications opening June 15, aiming to train and place Bahraini talent for the energy transition. Tourism & Economy: Bahrain welcomed about 16.04 million non-Bahraini travellers in 2025, the highest in nine years, showing continued growth beyond post-Covid recovery. Culture & Community: “BAHRAIN IS UNITED” was officially launched during an Eid gathering to boost social cohesion and national belonging.

Community Unity Push: This Is Bahrain launched “BAHRAIN IS UNITED” during Eid gatherings, aiming to boost social cohesion and national belonging amid regional uncertainty. Cost of Living Relief: Muharraq Municipal Council backed a plan to allow separate utility accounts for close family members sharing one home and meter, after complaints of higher tariff bills. Business & Trade: Bahrain Chamber reconstituted the Bahraini side of the Bahrain–Saudi Joint Business Council to strengthen private-sector ties and expand trade and investment. Education Planning: Parliament’s Services Committee endorsed a proposal for a dedicated teacher recruitment database to forecast staffing needs and speed up hiring. Housing Safeguards: Another Parliament-backed move would create a review panel to protect waiting-list places when housing applications are cancelled. Hajj Follow-Up: Bahrain’s Justice Minister praised the smooth 1447 AH Hajj season and thanked Saudi coordination and Bahrain’s mission teams. Local Sports: East Riffa signed Bahrain international striker Abdullah Al-Hashash from Al-Ahli, while the Khalid Bin Hamad Bahrain Handball League final is set for next Tuesday between Al Ahli and Barbar. Safety & Courts: A manager was jailed for six months over workplace safety failures linked to a fatal rooftop fall, and a flower shop owner’s VAT evasion sentence was reduced on appeal.

Hajj Update: Bahrain’s Hajj mission says early-departing pilgrims completed stoning and Farewell Tawaf at the Grand Mosque, with teams stepping up checks in Mina and at Jamarat to keep transport and healthcare running smoothly. Parliament & Education: A teacher recruitment database proposal backed by the Services Committee would create a digital platform to forecast staffing needs and speed hiring, though the Civil Service Bureau says recruitment already follows existing civil service rules. Housing Rights: A Shura-backed move would set up a review panel to protect waiting-list places when housing applications are cancelled, aiming to add an extra safeguard before requests are struck off. Justice: A Bahraini managing director was jailed for six months after negligence led to a Bangladeshi worker’s fatal 20-metre rooftop fall, with court findings pointing to missing safety measures. Trade & Diplomacy: Bahrain and Thailand discussed logistics integration and food-security cooperation at THAIFEX–ANUGA ASIA, including ways to improve shipment efficiency and distribution. Public Safety: Civil Defence in Aali rescued five children from a residential fire; investigations are ongoing into the cause. Sports: East Riffa signed Bahrain international striker Abdullah Al-Hashash, while 2 Seas Motorsport pushed ahead in GTWC Europe testing at Monza and Bahrain’s Nelly Jepkosgei finished runner-up in the women’s 800m in Poland.

National Unity Drive: This Is Bahrain officially launched “BAHRAIN IS UNITED” to boost social cohesion and loyalty, welcoming Bahrainis and expatriates to stand together in support of the kingdom and its leadership. Workplace Safety & Justice: A Bahraini managing director was jailed for six months after a court found his negligence led to a Bangladeshi worker’s fatal 20-metre rooftop fall in Adliya. Eid Al-Adha & Hajj Updates: Bahrain’s pilgrims completed Arafat rites smoothly, with MPs and the Shura Council praising Saudi Arabia’s Hajj organisation and highlighting Bahrain’s coordination and care for pilgrims. Local Culture: Governorates and families marked Eid traditions with large “Hiya Biya” celebrations for children, while an exhibition “Flag of Love and Peace” opened to spotlight Bahrain’s identity through art. Crime & Courts: A flower shop owner’s VAT evasion sentence was reduced on appeal, and a manager’s prison term was cut in a forged signature case. Nature & Lifestyle: A rare black-faced spoonbill surprised birdwatchers in Sanad wetlands. Eid Economy: Traders reported strong Eid demand for livestock, gold, and Eid tray snacks, including more affordable Turkish and Chinese options.

Hajj Wrap-Up: Bahraini pilgrims completed Arafat and Eid Al Adha rites smoothly, with the Bahrain Hajj Mission running a safe, staged transfer plan and later reporting Jamrat Al Aqaba stoning in calm, well-managed conditions. Parliament Praises Saudi Hajj: MPs and the Shura Council praised Saudi Arabia’s 1447H Hajj organisation, citing crowd control, healthcare readiness, security coordination and smart technologies, while also highlighting Bahrain’s early coordination with Saudi authorities. Regional Security: Bahrain condemned Iran’s missile and drone attack on Kuwait, stressing solidarity with Kuwait and calling for stronger GCC defense and security cooperation as Gulf states denounce the escalation. Eid Life in Bahrain: Families stocked Eid trays with cheaper Turkish and Chinese snacks alongside Bahraini halwa and mathai; Manama Souq saw a gold sales revival as prices eased, and livestock demand lifted the sector. Culture & Community: BACA marked International Museums Day with events across Bahrain’s museums, while governorates ran Hiya Biya heritage celebrations for children. Housing Rules: A parliamentary panel proposed a review mechanism to protect waiting-list places when housing applications are cancelled.

Eid Al-Adha & Security: Bahrain’s leadership and officials marked Eid with prayers for the kingdom’s security and stability, while the Capital Governor stressed strong public confidence and praised Eid tourism turnout. Hajj Success: King Hamad and senior officials congratulated Saudi Arabia on a well-organised Haj season, as Bahrain’s Haj Mission said pilgrims were transferred to Arafat smoothly. Cultural Heritage: Baca rolled out International Museums Day events across Bahrain’s museums, and Bahrain also showcased national identity through art, including a “Flag of Love and Peace” exhibition. Folk Traditions: Northern and Muharraq governorates held large “Hiya Biya” celebrations for children and families, keeping the sea-facing custom alive. Local Governance: A parliamentary proposal would protect housing applicants from cancellations by creating a review panel to examine grievances. Regional Diplomacy: Bahrain condemned an Iranian attack on Kuwait and urged stronger GCC defense cooperation, while Foreign Minister Al Zayani told the UN that Strait of Hormuz safety is a collective responsibility. Business & Markets: New municipal rules require licences and assigned sites for traders in public markets, and Eid demand lifted gold sales at Manama Souq.

Regional Security: Kuwait condemned “criminal Iranian attacks” on its territory with missiles and drones, saying they violate sovereignty and endanger civilians, while Bahrain’s leadership continues to back de-escalation efforts amid wider Gulf tensions. Eid Al-Adha & Hajj Logistics: Bahrain marked Eid Al-Adha with leadership greetings, and the Bahrain Haj Mission said pilgrims were transferred to Arafat smoothly under coordinated plans with Saudi authorities. Anti-Iran Crackdown: A reported loyalty campaign backs King Hamad amid a crackdown on people accused of Iranian sympathies, as courts handed 10-year and life sentences in related cases. UN Diplomacy: Bahrain’s FM told the UN that Strait of Hormuz safety is a collective responsibility, as China urged a comprehensive Gulf ceasefire and Bahrain praised Beijing’s mediation. Trade & Investment: Bahrain expects UK trade gains after the GCC-UK free trade pact, while Bahrain and Egypt discussed expanding economic and investment cooperation. Local Rules & Economy: New municipal market rules require traders to hold licences and use officially assigned sites. Business & Culture: SICO completed a BFLC–Truffle hospitality share swap, and Eid traditions like “Al Heya Beya” and Bahrain’s halwa surge keep the festive spirit going.

Eid Al-Adha & Royal Greetings: Bahrain marked the first day of Eid Al Adha with leadership cables and phone calls exchanged with regional and international leaders, while the Cabinet extended greetings and praised the Royal Bahraini Air Force’s 50th anniversary. Hajj Operations: The Bahrain Haj Mission said pilgrims were transferred to Arafat smoothly under coordinated schedules with Saudi authorities. Eid Economy: Manama Souq saw a gold sales revival as prices eased, while livestock and butcheries reported strong Eid demand and halwa makers sold over 1,000kg ahead of the holiday. Bahrain–UN Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani told the UN that Strait of Hormuz security is a collective responsibility, as China’s Wang Yi urged a comprehensive Gulf ceasefire. Bahrain–Pakistan Coordination: Ishaq Dar at the UN stressed dialogue and de-escalation, rejecting water-as-weapon claims. Bahrain–UK Trade: The GCC-UK Free Trade Agreement could push Bahrain–UK trade beyond £2bn after tariffs are lifted. Local Culture & Lifestyle: Families kept the “Al Heya Beya” sea custom alive, and Muharraq’s “Haya Biya” festival drew big crowds. Sports & Culture: 2 Seas Motorsport is back at Monza for GTWC Round 3, and Bahrain’s DUST released “The Empty Quarter” EP with an anime-style storyline.