Explainer IMF projects Gulf rebound in 2027. Can energy production keep pace? Restoring shipping access in the Strait of Hormuz is only part of the recovery, as Gulf producers also need to repair damaged infrastructure to avoid further disruption to production and exports. Saudi Arabia
Mossad, Shin Bet in UAE: What we know about Israel’s FlyDubai probe The National Security Council is probing foreign carrier security protocols, while police investigate two senior Transportation Ministry officials suspected of providing private services for aviation companies. Israel
Trump says Hormuz mine-free as Iran, Oman agree to clear them The US president again says Hormuz is clear of mines as Iran and Oman announce their plan to clear the strait. United States
Newsletter: Daily Briefing Syria, Israel hold US-mediated talks Pakistan’s Munir arrives in Tehran; major UAE economic delegation to visit Beirut; and more. By Ezgi Akin In Ankara, reporting on diplomacy, EU-Turkey ties, NATO
Newsletter: Gulf Gulf chokepoints bring Japan closer to Saudi Arabia, Oman By Francesco Schiavi In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance
Sultan of Oman to make first visit to Iran amid regional thaw The visit comes amid Iran’s rapprochement with Saudi Arabia, and Oman's mediation between Egypt and Tehran. Oman
Russia to add Gulf countries to visa-free travel list Russia stated that it was preparing visa-free travel agreements with a total of 17 countries, which include Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Syria. Legacy: Gulf
Oman continues economic reforms by listing drilling company on stock exchange Oman’s fiscal performance has improved in the last year, and the country wants to produce more alternative forms of energy, such as hydrogen. Legacy: Gulf
Biden names US ambassadors to Jordan, Oman The US president has nominated Yael Lempert as US ambassador to Jordan, Ana Escrogima as US ambassador to Oman and named Dorothy Shea, currently the US ambassador to Lebanon, for deputy US representative to the United Nations Jordan
Interview Oman banking on hydrogen, renewables in diversified energy strategy In an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor, Oman’s energy and minerals minister is charting a course for affordable, sustainable energy and welcomes international investors. Salim Al Aufi Oman Minister of Energy and Minerals
Japan strengthens energy ties to Saudi Arabia, Oman Oman wants to increase its natural gas exports, and Saudi Arabia continues to show interest in clean energy and carbon capture technology. Legacy: Gulf
UAE, Oman boost ties with deals on high-speed rail, combating financial crimes The agreements are in line with the UAE’s foreign policy, which prioritizes regional partnerships. United Arab Emirates
Oman to allow foreign ownership for companies on Muscat stock exchange The move will help Oman diversify its economy away from dependency on oil. The country has recently sought investment from its neighbors in the Gulf. Oman
4,000-year-old stone board game discovered at Oman excavation site Archaelogists said the board game appeared similar to other games played during the Bronze Age. Oman
Oman lifts ban on vaccinated travelers from 18 countries Oman is loosening restrictions on travel amid a decline in COVID-19 cases across the Gulf country. Oman
Omani FM voices hope Israel's new leaders will advance Palestinian state Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi told his Israeli counterpart that the Gulf country is hopeful the new government in Israel can take "concrete steps" to establish a sovereign Palestinian state. Israel