AGP Executive Report

Youth Employment Push: Kooheji Holding launched the new “Aspire” summer programme, filling all seats in under 24 hours and selecting 25 Bahraini university students, with top trainees offered a pathway to join the company after graduation. Banking & Trust: A profile on NBB’s strategic accounts highlights a “trust-first” approach in managing long-running, shareholder-linked client relationships. Consular Follow-Up After Saudi Crashes: Bahrain’s embassy and consulate are supporting families after a bus accident in Saudi Arabia killed a Bahraini woman and injured relatives, while a separate crash in Hawtat Bani Tamim killed a child and left others in hospital. Youth City 2030: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Tamkeen will open the largest Youth City 2030 edition, expanding skills and career preparation for young Bahrainis. Labour Law Proposals: Two parliamentary bills aim to cut end-of-service costs—one would remove gratuity for domestic workers, and another would shift the cost for foreign staff to the Labour Market Regulatory Authority. Food Subsidy Crackdown: An MP urged urgent action against bakeries accused of exploiting subsidised flour by hiking bread prices via “enhanced” additives. Regional Security: Bahrain’s UN envoy accused Iran of using diplomacy to “manage crises and gain time” while attacking Gulf states; meanwhile, Bahrain reported air-raid sirens and interceptions amid renewed US-Iran exchanges.

Youth Empowerment: Youth City 2030 kicks off tomorrow with its biggest edition yet, marking the 15th year of Bahrain’s youth skills and innovation push led by the Ministry of Youth Affairs with Tamkeen. Labour Law: Two bills are in the spotlight at Parliament’s Services Committee, including ending end-of-service gratuity for domestic workers and shifting the cost to the Labour Market Regulatory Authority for foreign staff. Regional Security: Bahrain’s UN envoy told the Security Council Iran is “managing crises and gain time” through diplomacy while attacking Gulf states, warning that nuclear talks won’t work without changes in regional behaviour. Sports & Culture: Bahrain’s Emirates Falcons Racing International Cup is set for early December, while Bahraini wrestlers head to a UWW-OCA camp in Guangzhou and the BDF hockey team won a six-a-side title. Consumer Watch: MPs urged a crackdown on bakeries accused of exploiting subsidised flour by hiking bread prices via “enhanced” additives.

Gulf Security: Bahrain’s UN envoy accused Iran of using diplomatic agreements to “manage crises and gain time” while attacks escalate across the region, as Bahrain’s air defences intercepted and destroyed Iranian aerial threats and sirens were sounded again in Manama. Regional Coordination: Gulf states stepped up coordination after the renewed strikes, with calls and statements urging dialogue and respect for the MoU. Local Courts: A man accused of forging a car owner’s signature and stealing vehicles had his case effectively ended after the owner withdrew his complaint and waived civil damages. Business & Jobs: Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB) launched its expanded “Athr” Summer Internship Programme for 52 interns, while the Labour Ministry reviewed an AI “Smart Employment Guide” concept to match job seekers with vacancies and training. Health Research: A Bahrain study of 446 patients linked larger thyroid nodules to higher cancer risk, published in Diagnostics. Sports & Culture: Bahrain named its final 18-player junior handball squad for China, while Bahrain will host the Emirates Falcons Racing Cup in December and a Bahraini composer released “Marionettes,” a string quartet album exploring fate and human struggle.

Gulf Security: Bahrain sounded air-raid sirens again in Manama after renewed Iran-linked missile and drone activity, with the Bahrain Defence Force saying its air defences intercepted and destroyed aerial threats. Regional Diplomacy: Gulf states stepped up coordination after the attacks, with multiple rounds of consultations and calls urging parties to stick to the memorandum of understanding and keep dialogue open. Sports—Wrestling: Two young Bahraini wrestlers, Hassan Al Balushi (51kg) and Sajood Al Arabi (57kg), have travelled to Guangzhou for a UWW-OCA Asian youth training camp and coaches course. Sports—Handball: Bahrain named its final 18-player squad for the Asian Men’s Junior Championship in China, aiming for gold and a qualifier spot for next year’s U21 World Championship. Consumer Protection: An MP urged an urgent crackdown on bakeries accused of exploiting Bahrain’s subsidised flour scheme by hiking bread prices on “enhanced” loaves. Business & Jobs: Bahrain Islamic Bank launched its expanded “Athr” summer internship programme, while Bahrain Bourse reviewed plans under its 2026–2028 “Elevate” capital market roadmap. Health Research: A Bahrain study linked thyroid nodule size to higher cancer risk, based on clinical data from 446 patients.

Regional Security: Bahrain sounded air-raid sirens again after Iran launched drones and missiles tied to renewed US-Iran strikes, with Bahrain’s air defences saying they intercepted and destroyed aerial threats; Kuwait reported missile/drone interceptions and one injury, while Gulf states stepped up coordination and urged dialogue under the MoU. Food Prices: MP Dr Muneer Suroor urged an urgent crackdown on bakeries accused of exploiting Bahrain’s subsidised flour scheme by hiking bread prices through “enhanced” add-ons, calling for clear pricing guidelines. Sports (Handball): Bahrain named its final 18-player squad for the Asian Men’s Junior Championship in China, aiming for gold and a World Championship qualifier spot. Health Research: A Bahrain study of 446 patients linked thyroid nodule size to higher cancer risk, published in Diagnostics. Finance & Business: BisB launched its Athr Summer Internship Programme (52 interns, up 120%), while BENEFIT was named among Bahrain’s Top 50 companies; Bahrain Bourse held its second 2026 board meeting under the “Elevate” plan. Community & Culture: GFH Foundation partnered with Kaaf Humanitarian to support underprivileged Bahraini families, and a Bahraini collector is set to attempt two Guinness records with a 30-hour live-stream auction.

Gulf Security Escalation: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry sounded air-raid sirens again in Manama as Iran-linked missile and drone attacks were reported across the region, with Bahrain Defence Force saying its air defences intercepted and destroyed multiple aerial threats. US-Iran Strikes: The renewed exchange followed fresh US strikes on Iran after Trump said the interim ceasefire was “over,” raising fears of wider regional war and renewed disruption to Strait of Hormuz shipping. Regional Fallout: Kuwait also reported missile/drone alerts and interceptions, while Jordan said it destroyed eight Iranian missiles aimed at its territory. Energy Markets: Oil prices jumped more than 5% amid heightened Hormuz risk, while Gulf stock markets mostly closed lower, including Bahrain’s index down 0.6%. Jobs & Skills: Bahrain’s Labour Ministry reviewed an AI-powered “Smart Employment Guide” to match Bahraini jobseekers with vacancies and recommend training pathways. Business & Training: Al-Futtaim was recognised for employing Bahraini nationals, and REHC renewed its UK partnership to expand training for Bahraini jockeys.

Gulf Security Escalation: Bahrain and Kuwait sounded emergency sirens and activated air defences after Iran launched drone and missile attacks tied to renewed US strikes on Iran, with Bahrain’s Ministry of Defence saying interceptors destroyed several incoming drones and missiles over Bahraini airspace and urging residents to report suspicious debris. Diplomatic Pushback: Bahrain’s Foreign Affairs Ministry condemned the attacks on regional interests and tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz as a flagrant violation of international law, while Qatar and other Gulf states also renewed condemnation and called for de-escalation. Markets Hit by Risk: Oil prices jumped more than 5% as the Strait of Hormuz risk returned to the spotlight, following Trump’s comments that the US-Iran ceasefire was “over,” alongside reports of fresh strikes and retaliations. Local Governance & Economy: Bahrain Bourse’s board reviewed plans under the “Elevate” capital markets roadmap, including investor relations guidelines and updated risk management policies, while the SME Fund advisory board highlighted financing support for Bahrain’s micro, small and medium enterprises. Public Safety & Crime: A vigilant resident in Jeblat Habshi reported a suspected drug stash, leading to a heroin and synthetic cannabinoids case at Bahrain’s High Criminal Court. Culture & Heritage: A feature highlighted mashrabiya’s role in traditional cooling and privacy, noting Bahrain’s iconic structures that use the lattice woodwork.

Gulf Security Shock: Bahrain sounded warning sirens again after Iran-linked attacks and said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed missiles and drones over the kingdom, as the wider U.S.-Iran fight escalated and Trump declared the ceasefire “over.” Diplomatic Push: Bahrain also condemned Iran’s strikes on Saudi and Qatari tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and urged the UN Security Council to stop repeat attacks and protect freedom of navigation. Regional Fallout: Qatar’s cabinet condemned Iranian attacks and advanced reforms, while Bahrain and the UAE National Guards signed an MoU to boost security cooperation. Travel & Tourism: Oman Air launched a new Bahrain–Salalah charter for the Khareef season, adding seats to meet demand. Education & Rights Debate: Education in Bahrain remains a flashpoint in claims of Shia discrimination, even as the Education Ministry opened 2026-2027 scholarship applications for top students. Local Economy & Culture: A Northern Municipal Council member urged that Maqasees market be run by the municipality and reserved for long-standing Bahraini vendors.

Maritime Security: Bahrain strongly condemned Iran’s attack on Saudi tanker “Wedyan” and Qatar tanker “Al Rekayyat” while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, calling it an unacceptable escalation that threatens navigation and global energy supplies, and urged the UN Security Council to prevent recurrence. Diplomacy: India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Crown Prince/PM Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, then held talks with Deputy Prime Minister Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, focusing on deepening India-Bahrain ties and regional developments. Regional Energy Routes: Saudi Arabia is considering expanding the East-West crude pipeline capacity to the western Red Sea coast to move more oil without crossing Hormuz, with preliminary talks involving neighbours including Bahrain. Sports: Bahrain’s Arab youth basketball champions head to Doha for the Gulf U18 Championship (July 17-22), aiming for one of three spots at the FIBA U18 Asia Cup in India; Bahrain also returned from Morocco with sailing medals. Humanitarian & Justice: A family launched an appeal for BD3,000 to continue physiotherapy for a paralysed Bahraini man; Bahrain’s Cassation Court rejected a final appeal in a fatal building blast case. Education & Youth: Registration opened for 95%+ scholarship applicants for 2026-2027, while Bahrain honoured Consumer Protection Ambassadors and continued youth training programmes.

Education & Scholarships: Bahrain’s Ministry of Education has opened 2026-2027 scholarship registrations for secondary graduates with a 95% cumulative average, with options at local universities and abroad, including Japan, the UK, the US and Gulf states. Consumer Protection: The Ministry of Industry and Commerce honoured the fifth cohort of Consumer Protection Ambassadors, training young Bahrainis to spread awareness of consumer rights and complaint-handling. Housing Delivery: Eskan Bank signed a consultancy deal with Al A’ali Engineering Consultants for 72 residential units (40 in Askar, 32 in Hamad Town) to support the push to accelerate housing projects. Health Support: A humanitarian appeal seeks BD3,000 to fund six months of physiotherapy for a nearly 70-year-old paralysed Bahraini man. Sports & Youth: Bahrain sailors returned from Morocco with two medals, and Bahrain’s U18 basketball team set its Gulf qualifier campaign in Doha after winning the Arab title. Regional Diplomacy: India’s EAM S. Jaishankar met Bahrain’s King, Crown Prince and FM, discussing stronger India-Bahrain ties and the Indian community’s wellbeing. Security & Law: Bahrain’s High Criminal Court began its first hearing in a national security case involving an Iran-linked terrorist organization.

US-Iran Talks in Focus: Bahrain and Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministers met in Riyadh, reviewing close ties and discussing the US-Iran negotiation process, with both sides stressing freedom of navigation in the Arabian Gulf. India-Bahrain Cooperation: India’s EAM S. Jaishankar met Bahrain’s FM Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani in Manama, praising care for the Indian community and exploring deeper bilateral cooperation amid regional developments. National Security Court Case: Bahrain’s High Criminal Court held its first hearing in a national security case involving 19 defendants accused of forming and operating an Iran-linked terrorist organization, with charges denied by the defendants. Youth Skills Push: Solidarity Bahrain launched its summer training programme “Tamayaz,” placing university students across insurance, compliance, investment, HR and other departments for practical career development. Housing Delivery: Eskan Bank signed a consultancy deal with Al A’ali Engineering Consultants for 72 residential units in Askar and Hamad Town, supporting the push to accelerate housing projects. Lawmakers on Deepfakes: Shura Council members proposed making deepfake creation and misuse a clear criminal offence under the Information Technology Crimes Law. Education & Sports Milestones: AUBH student Maria AlAwadhi became the first Bahraini woman to land a year-long McLaren Racing internship, while Bahrain’s U18 team retained the Arab youth basketball title after beating Egypt.

Diplomacy: India’s EAM S Jaishankar met Bahrain’s FM Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani in Manama to discuss deepening bilateral cooperation, including energy, trade, investment, connectivity and people-to-people ties. Housing Delivery: Eskan Bank signed a consultancy deal with Al A’ali Engineering Consultants for 72 residential units—40 in Askar and 32 in Hamad Town—supporting the push to accelerate delivery of 50,000 housing units. Cybersecurity & Law: Bahrain lawmakers are pushing amendments to the Information Technology Crimes Law to make deepfake abuse a clear criminal offence when it harms a person’s identity, honour or standing. Education & Youth: AUBH student Maria Alawadhi became the first Bahraini woman to join McLaren Racing via a year-long internship at the McLaren Technology Centre in Surrey. Sports & International Pathways: Bahrain’s Aya Kamali signed with Wingate University to compete in NCAA Division Two in the US, while Bahrain also backed Egypt’s historic world endurance qualifier. Regional Ties: Bahrain and Korea explored opportunities in industrial, trade and investment cooperation; Saudi and Bahrain foreign ministers also discussed US-Iran talks and maritime navigation.

Housing Delivery Boost: Eskan Bank signed a BHD48,000 consultancy deal with Al A’ali Engineering to support 72 new homes in Askar (40) and Hamad Town (32), as part of efforts to speed up delivery of 50,000 housing units. Regional Diplomacy: Saudi and Bahraini foreign ministers met in Riyadh to discuss US-Iran talks, regional security and stability, and the importance of freedom of navigation in the Arabian Gulf. Women’s Health Push: A health expert called for a comprehensive postpartum care system, warning that postnatal neglect can drive serious complications and postpartum depression. AI Governance Spotlight: The Shura Council president said Bahrain is advancing in AI adoption and the knowledge economy, citing legislative support and the Sheikh Nasser Centre for AI R&D. Digital Payments Momentum: A Mastercard survey found 96% of Bahraini SMEs see digital and online payments as critical to growth. Sports & Youth: Basketball guard Aya Kamali signed with Wingate University for NCAA Division Two, while Bahrain’s under-18 team retained the Arab Youth title by beating Egypt 85-73. SCW Silver Jubilee: The Supreme Council for Women announced its 25-year celebrations under HM King Hamad’s patronage.

AI & Governance: Shura Council President Ali bin Saleh Al-Saleh said royal directives have put Bahrain “ahead” in AI adoption and the knowledge economy, pointing to the Sheikh Nasser Centre and new AI regulation as the kingdom pushes for global collaboration. Equal Opportunities: The Shura Council backed its “Equality and Excellence 2026” drive, with teams competing across eight categories and the Communications Department taking first place. Housing & Banking: Eskan Bank signed a consultancy deal for 72 residential units (Askar and Hamad Town), while Bapco Energies extended applications for its NBH Future Energy Leaders scholarship until 16 July. Women’s Milestones: SCW announced silver jubilee celebrations under HM King Hamad’s patronage. Youth & Sports: Bahrain’s U18 men’s team won back-to-back Arab Youth Basketball gold, beating Egypt 85-73, and Aya Kamali became the youngest Bahraini in NCAA basketball. Business & Money: A Mastercard survey found 96% of Bahraini SMEs see digital payments as critical for growth, and a report said Bahrain led GCC banking on credit growth and profit margins. Consumer Watch: Industry and Commerce inspectors shut a shop over alleged unjustified price hikes on essential foods. Culture & Community: Muharraq Governor stressed preserving national achievements and heritage stories.

Arab Youth Day & youth empowerment: Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa marked Arab Youth Day, saying Bahrain’s youth success is driven by King Hamad’s vision and Crown Prince Salman’s support, with the real challenge being young people’s ambition. Sports glory: Bahrain’s U18 men’s team won back-to-back Arab Youth Basketball Championship titles, beating Egypt 85-73 in Tunisia, with Somto Patrick Onoduenyi named MVP. Pathways for Bahraini athletes: Muzamil Amir Hamoda was drafted eighth overall to the NBA G League by the San Diego Clippers, then acquired by the Texas Legends—first from Bahrain and the GCC to be picked. Women in diplomacy: Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry held a panel for International Day of Women in Diplomacy, highlighting Bahraini women diplomats and the Kingdom’s gender-equality push. Governance & ethics: Shura Council’s General Secretariat earned CIPS Corporate Ethics Mark and Kite Mark for procurement and supply-chain integrity. Housing cost relief push: A parliamentary proposal would let newlyweds and families in government housing get discounted furniture/electronics and household gifts via voluntary retailer participation. Consumer protection: Bahrain shut a retail outlet in the Capital Governorate over unjustified price hikes on essentials and mismatched shelf vs checkout pricing, warning of maximum penalties. Regional security: Bahrain told the UN Security Council Iranian missile/drone attacks are repeated since Feb 28 and urged an enforcement and accountability mechanism.

Regional Security: Bahrain told the UN Security Council that Iranian ballistic missile and drone attacks on civilian areas are part of repeated assaults since Feb 28, urging Iran to halt strikes and face an enforceable accountability mechanism. Diplomacy & Alliances: Foreign Minister Abdullatif Al Zayani met US UN envoy Mike Waltz after an emergency UNSC session, with both sides discussing US-Iran negotiations and restoring maritime freedom in the Strait of Hormuz. Sports Breakthrough: Muzamil Amir Hamoda became the first Bahraini—and first GCC player—picked in the 2026-27 NBA G League International Draft, selected by the San Diego Clippers and traded to the Texas Legends. Local Justice: A court upheld a five-year prison term and deportation for BD12,000-plus electronic fraud using a fake reward link. Public Safety: A delivery rider who caused the deaths of three pedestrians in a crosswalk crash lost his appeal and was set to serve a seven-year sentence. Community & Culture: Muharraq councillors backed a bid to seek UNESCO recognition for historic Christian villages Dair and Samaheej. Health & Inclusion: A proposal would bring experienced private autism specialists into Bahrain’s public system to speed access to care and support. Business & Prices: Inspectors shut a retail outlet in the Capital Governorate over alleged unjustified price hikes on essential foods and other consumer-protection violations. Arts: Bahraini short film “Seed” won the Golden Palm Award for Best Gulf narrative short at Saudi’s film festival.