AGP Executive Report

World Cup Under Fire: Iran’s squad is preparing for the 2026 tournament in Turkey while war with the host nation and visa worries hang over preparations, with players describing mounting mental strain. Cost-of-Living Shock: In Iran, prices are rising “by the hour” as a US Gulf blockade squeezes supply chains, pushing families toward crisis. Gulf Aviation Disruption: Kuwait says Iranian drones damaged its main airport terminal, killing one and injuring dozens, while flights were suspended and then partially resumed amid escalating US-Iran exchanges. Ceasefire & “Pilot Zones”: Lebanon and Israel agreed to renew a conditional ceasefire and set up Lebanese army-controlled “pilot zones,” excluding non-state actors, as talks continue in Washington. US War Powers Clash: The US House voted to block Trump from ordering further strikes on Iran, a rare bipartisan rebuke that still faces a tough Senate path. Travel Demand Hit: IATA reports Middle East war dragged global air passenger demand down in April, with Middle East carriers hardest hit. UAE Holiday: The UAE announced June 15 as Hijri New Year public holiday for public and private workers. Hospitality Expansion: Rotana signed its first ski resort deal in Georgia (Gudauri), adding a new mountain category to its portfolio.

Gulf Aviation Disruption: Kuwait briefly shut Kuwait International Airport after Iranian drones damaged a passenger terminal, killing 1 and injuring dozens, with flights later partially resuming for Kuwait Airways only. Airline Fallout: flydubai cancelled all Kuwait flights, while American Airlines adjusted several domestic routes for August–September amid the wider Iran-war operating environment. Travel Safety & Advisories: the UK removed Israel from its blanket “no travel” list for the first time since mid-2025, though Gaza and parts of the West Bank still face stricter guidance—potentially easing insurance and tourism planning. Middle East Airlines Scrutiny: Lebanon’s aviation regulator launched a safety audit of Middle East Airlines after pilot groups raised concerns about flying near airstrikes and reporting penalties. World Cup Travel Moves: Iran’s national team received visas for Mexico ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the squad departing from Antalya to Tijuana on June 6 despite earlier visa delays. Tourism Signals: Cyprus tourism got a boost as the US and UK eased travel advisories, improving confidence for the summer season.

Kuwait Aviation Shock: Iranian drones and missiles hit Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1, injuring several people and forcing Kuwait Airways to suspend all flights while authorities assess damage and security. Flight Disruptions: Islamabad airport saw multiple cancellations amid regional airspace disruption tied to Iran–US tensions, with airlines rerouting and facing clearance delays. Tourism Under Pressure: Türkiye’s tourism body says domestic demand may cushion a Europe slowdown, but 2026 could be shaped by last-minute bookings and price pressure from competing Mediterranean destinations. Middle East Travel Costs: Iran-linked Strait of Hormuz worries pushed oil higher, adding to fuel costs and contributing to record airfares and reduced services on some routes. Egypt City Makeover: Egypt announced “Greening Cairo” to convert evacuated urban spaces into green areas, aiming to boost heritage tourism and revive central Cairo. Turkey Culture Push: Türkiye’s Night Museum returns with after-hours access to 20 major museums and archaeological sites, drawing over 1 million visitors in 2025. World Cup Travel Logistics: Iran’s World Cup squad is reportedly waiting on visas for Mexico and the US, with travel plans adjusted to security concerns. Business & Trade: EBRD cut Türkiye’s growth forecast for 2026/27, citing energy import costs, inflation pressure, and conflict-hit tourism and supply chains. Golf Travel Trend: Research shows golfers increasingly want food, wellness, culture, and group trips—not just courses. Armenia-Türkiye Links: A Kars business forum focused on transport, logistics, tourism and trade as normalization opens new opportunities.

Bahrain Travel Curbs: Bahrain has banned citizens from travelling to Iran and Iraq until further notice, citing escalating regional security risks and announcing legal action for violators. UK-Iran Detention Update: British couple Craig and Lindsay Foreman, jailed in Iran on espionage charges they deny, have lost their appeal; their family says they were barred from attending and report hunger strikes and cut communications. World Cup Travel Headaches: Iran’s squad says visas for Mexico and then the US are expected soon, but the process has already disrupted preparations amid US-Iran tensions. Lebanon Talks, Gaza Strikes: Lebanon and Israel began US-mediated talks in Washington aimed at stopping an invasion, while Gaza saw fresh Israeli strikes killing at least four. Humanitarian Logistics Strain: UNICEF warns Middle East conflict is disrupting shipping and forcing more airlifts, with delays stretching 4–6 weeks and costs rising. Tourism & Investment Signals: Hotel development in the Middle East and Africa keeps growing, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE leading the pipeline; Qatar meanwhile is projecting big education investment growth, boosting its long-term appeal for families and expats. Sustainable Diving Plan: Egypt is studying a sustainable development approach for the Blue Hole in South Sinai, aiming to protect the marine ecosystem while managing visitor growth.

Strait of Hormuz Disruption: US forces guided about 70 commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz in recent weeks, but traffic remains “exceptionally depleted” as many vessels go dark to avoid detection—keeping a major share of global oil supply at risk. Lebanon Tensions: Israel’s seizure of Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon adds to a fast-moving ceasefire backdrop, with analysts warning political and military signals are clashing. Tourism & Travel Deals: Jazeera Airways launched “Buy Now, Fly Now” with up to 20% off fares (book June 2–6; travel through June 30), while El Al plans to restart flights to San Francisco from Oct 25 with three weekly services. Pilgrimage Logistics: Nigeria’s NAHCON begins transporting pilgrims from Saudi Arabia this week, with airlines’ schedules and strict baggage/document rules to avoid delays. Regional Border Access: Iran says the Jilat border crossing with Iraq’s Maysan province has entered an operational phase, with partial traveler access possible during Arbaeen. Hospitality & Events: Qatar’s “Hala Summer” calendar kicks off with major sport, exhibitions, and family shows across June. Business for Travelers: Egypt is pushing a global logistics hub concept in the Suez Canal Economic Zone to attract investment and strengthen trade routes.

Oman Tourism Boost: Oman’s ambassador to Kuwait says Kuwaiti visitor arrivals rose 17.2% (2024-2025), with Dhofar’s khareef season (June 21–Sept) driving growth to 1.07M visitors in 2025 and capacity for over 1M during peak months. Lebanon Ceasefire Talks: Trump says Israel and Hezbollah agreed to dial back fighting and that no Israeli troops will go to Beirut, though strikes and rocket fire were reported immediately after. Iran War Hits Travel Costs: JetBlue warned jet fuel costs are rising again as Iran-war tensions keep pressure on oil and airfares; airlines and cruise operators face higher fuel bills. World Cup Travel Uncertainty: Iran omitted Sardar Azmoun from its 26-man squad; the team’s camp is in Tijuana after visa issues, with matches in the US starting June 15. Egypt Archaeology for Tourism: Egypt announced major finds near Cairo, including a rare Aphrodite sculpture and funerary cache at a 3,200-year-old tomb, as it pushes tourism recovery. UK Border Curbs: Britain blocked entry for US commentators Hasan Piker and Cenk Uygur, citing “not conducive to the public good,” sparking debate over travel freedom. Qatar Traffic Success: Qatar reported smooth Eid return traffic across Doha thanks to smart road systems and coordinated traffic control.

UK Entry Curbs: The UK barred US commentators Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker from entering the country over Israel-related remarks, just as they were set for SXSW London and Oxford events. Gaza Toll: Gaza health authorities say Israeli fire killed 33 Palestinians during Eid al-Adha, with hundreds more wounded and hospitals strained by power shortages. Aviation & Travel Disruption: Kuwait airport resumed Arab and foreign flights after operational disruptions, while the wider Middle East conflict continues to squeeze air travel demand and raise costs. Makkah Mega-Project: Umm Al Qura-led consortium won $1.6bn Saudi contracts to develop two sites adjacent to Masar Destination in Makkah, targeting major expansion for pilgrims and visitors. Transport Upgrade (Egypt): Egypt plans a new “Airport Link” phase on Metro Line 3, adding seven stations over 9.2 km to connect directly to Cairo International Airport. Tourism Pressure (Asia): War-driven fuel and uncertainty are hitting tourism-dependent economies across Southeast Asia, with Cambodia’s Angkor seeing a sharp drop in international visitors. Safety Watch (Turkey): A tourist bus crash in western Türkiye killed eight people, including an infant, after it hit a guardrail and caught fire. Business Travel Signals: Air cargo markets stabilized in mid-May, but rates remain elevated amid geopolitical volatility.

Travel Safety: A tourist bus crash in western Türkiye (Denizli) killed 8 people, including a 9-month-old baby and the driver, after the vehicle hit highway barriers and burst into flames; 33 others were injured and the road reopened about four hours later. Aviation & Travel Disruption: Kuwait International Airport’s Terminal 1 is set to gradually reopen on Monday with new check-in cutoffs, urging passengers to arrive early and confirm flight status as airlines resume phased operations. Middle East Conflict & Tourism Impact: Israel’s strikes in Gaza during Eid al-Adha reportedly killed at least 33 Palestinians across the holiday period, while aid convoys resumed into Gaza via Karem Abu Salem after a brief Eid pause. Regional Shipping & Travel Risk: Iran says it has reasserted control over the Strait of Hormuz and warns vessels to follow designated routes, as a US-Iran ceasefire framework remains in limbo. Business Travel & Infrastructure: Egypt will roll out a nationwide “Newborn Care Pathway” from June 1 through primary healthcare units, expanding preventive and treatment services for mothers and newborns. Tourism & Culture: A new boutique cave hotel in Turkey’s Cappadocia highlights continued luxury investment in heritage destinations. Sports Travel: Saudi Arabia says it will hand out free World Cup 2026 tickets to Saudi fans in the US amid fears of empty stadiums. Humanitarian Logistics: An Egyptian aid convoy entered Gaza on Sunday with food, medicines, tents and fuel after inspections and crossing clearance.

Hormuz Control: Iran says it has full authority over Strait of Hormuz passage, warning foreign ships will need IRGC Navy permission—while the US signals Trump is nearing a decision on a possible deal. Lebanon Evacuations: Israel issues new evacuation warnings for southern Lebanon villages as fighting continues despite ceasefire claims and fresh talks in Washington. Gaza Strikes: Eid al-Adha violence continues in Gaza with reports of deaths and injuries from Israeli strikes, including near Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital. Tourism Disruption Watch: A UK TV report highlights how Strait of Hormuz tensions and jet-fuel spikes are feeding cancellations, route changes, and higher costs for summer holidays. Jordan Flights Return: Low-cost airlines resume to Jordan from July 1, with the tourism ministry expecting a boost in European arrivals. Saudi Crackdown: Saudi authorities arrested 8,090 illegal residents in a week and deported 7,466. UAE Astronomy Tourism: In the UAE’s Al Quaa Desert, volunteers are taking visitors to see the Milky Way as light pollution blocks star views for most residents. Egypt Grain Supply: Safaga Port receives 65,000 tons of Ukrainian wheat, supporting Egypt’s food-security push. Maritime Safety: A pirate-themed party boat sinks off Turkey’s Marmaris coast; passengers were evacuated safely.

ICC Case Update: Australian Gaza flotilla participants have submitted survivor testimony, medical exams and sworn affidavits to the International Criminal Court alleging torture and sexual violence in Israeli custody, which Israel denies. World Cup Travel Friction: Iran says delayed US visas are disrupting preparations for the 2026 World Cup, forcing a training camp move from Arizona to Tijuana and raising concerns about biometric steps and tournament entry timing. Middle East Conflict Hits Travel: Airlines are gradually resuming some Middle East routes, but disruptions continue as Iran airspace reportedly faces major uncertainty and carriers keep rerouting. Gaza on Eid: UN rights monitors report at least 26 Palestinians killed in Gaza since Eid al-Adha began, as Israel expands control and strikes continue. Lebanon Escalation: Israel says forces have pushed deeper into Lebanon as delegations meet in Washington and ceasefire efforts remain strained. Eid Holiday Tourism (Iraq): Eid al-Adha crowds flocked to Erbil’s Bekhal and Gali Ali Beg waterfalls, filling picnic spots and viewing areas. Egypt Travel & Heritage: Egypt announced rare discoveries at the ancient Aydhab port, including large water reservoirs and service facilities tied to pilgrims. UAE Night-Sky Tourism: Dubai Astronomy Group excursions to Al Quaa Desert highlight how light pollution is limiting Milky Way visibility for most residents. Travel Costs Watch: Summer 2026 rental car prices in some hotspots are up sharply, with one report citing a 40% jump year-on-year in select destinations.

Lebanon Front: Israel escalated ground operations, with Netanyahu saying troops advanced beyond the Litani River as airstrikes hit multiple towns and UN figures warned of heavy civilian tolls. Ceasefire & Hormuz Talks: US President Trump said he’s moving toward a “final determination” on a proposed 60-day Iran ceasefire extension, tying any move to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, removing mines, and destroying Iran’s enriched uranium—while Iran denies negotiations and rejects Trump’s terms. Maritime Disruptions: Russian drones struck a Turkish-owned cargo ship in the Black Sea, injuring two Turkish crew members, underlining how Middle East tensions keep spilling into shipping routes. Aviation & Travel Costs: Global air demand fell 3.4% in April amid the Middle East war; UK regulators urged travellers to check rights and insurance details for possible disruption. Tourism Updates: EgyptAir resumed Los Angeles service with new A350s, while Cyprus’ Paphos hotels expect a packed Kataklysmos weekend despite a weaker overall season. Security & Spying: A Greek man in the UK was charged over alleged surveillance of an Iran International journalist using a covert camera hidden in a sock.

Hajj & Holy Land Logistics: Malaysia’s Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution praised Saudi Arabia’s preparations for this year’s Haj, citing smooth planning across logistics, security, health and pilgrim welfare for about 1.7 million pilgrims from 165 countries. Schengen Visa Demand: Türkiye ranked No.2 globally for Schengen visa applications in 2025 with 1.2 million, with Greece the top destination (310,920), while rejection rates for Turkish applicants stood at 14.6%. Istanbul Tourism Supply: Safaryar Holidays said it’s expanding contracted hotel room allotments in Istanbul ahead of peak summer as the city captured 41.7% of Türkiye’s foreign arrivals in April. Aviation Pressure from Middle East Conflict: Asia-Pacific airlines carried 135.03 million passengers in Jan–Apr (+5%), but jet fuel averaged about $165/barrel, pushing up airfare pressure. Black Sea Shipping Risk: Russia’s drone strike hit a Turkish-owned cargo ship (ANT) departing Odesa, injuring crew and sparking a fire—another blow to maritime safety. Cyprus Deportations: Cyprus began steps to revoke asylum status and deport two Syrian nationals after an assault on Israeli tourists in Nicosia. EU Border Delays: Travel agents warned of ongoing EES biometric entry-exit delays and queues, with some airports suspending registration. Private Aviation: Northern Jet added two Bombardier Challenger 604s to expand heavy-jet capacity for longer-range trips.

US-Iran Ceasefire Talks: The US and Iran have reached an outline 60-day framework to extend their truce and reopen Strait of Hormuz shipping, but it still awaits President Donald Trump’s final approval after fresh strikes and drone incidents. Strait of Hormuz Pressure: Washington also moved to tighten the screws—sanctioning Iran’s new Hormuz control body and saying it will halt Iranian airlines’ access to landing spots, refueling and ticket sales. EU Sanctions on West Bank Settlers: The EU added extremist Israeli settler groups and individuals to its human-rights sanctions list over alleged abuses and support for displacement and outposts. Aviation Shock for the Region: IATA reported Middle East air travel demand plunged 46.6% year-on-year in April, dragging global passenger traffic down 3.4%, while Africa showed modest growth. Eid Travel Strain in Egypt: Eid Al-Adha sparked a surge in ride-hailing demand, stressing Egypt’s smart mobility platforms amid overcrowded roads and driver shortages. Iraq Health Checks: Iraq ramped up veterinary inspections at slaughterhouses as CCHF spread to more provinces, including Kirkuk, ahead of Eid. Syrian Flooding: Euphrates flooding in eastern Syria rose nearly three meters, forcing evacuations and raising flash-flood fears. Tourism Safety Note: Siargao, Philippines, renewed calls for responsible visitor conduct after incidents involving foreign tourists, highlighting how behavior can quickly affect destination reputation.

US-Iran Escalation: Fresh US strikes hit Iran near Bandar Abbas as Tehran says its IRGC targeted a US airbase in Kuwait, while Washington warns the actions are defensive amid a fragile ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz tensions. Strait of Hormuz Pressure: The US Treasury sanctions Iran’s Gulf Strait Authority over tolls and warns anyone paying could face risks tied to IRGC support. Oman Warning: Trump tells Oman to “behave” over its Iran contacts, threatening destruction if it doesn’t comply as talks continue. Lebanon Travel Safety: Israel declares south Lebanon “combat zones,” orders evacuations around Tyre, and begins strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure during Eid al-Adha. Gaza Eid Violence: Israel says it killed Hamas military chief Mohammed Odeh in Gaza City, as strikes continue despite ceasefire claims. Tourism Disruption & Demand: South Africa reports 989,329 international arrivals in April (+19.5% y/y) despite Middle East flight disruptions; meanwhile, airlines and loyalty partners push new routes and “island-hopping” options for travelers. Security & Extremism: Australia charges an IS-linked woman after returning from Syria, with investigations ongoing for recent returnees.

West Bank/Eid Tensions: Israeli forces arrested four Palestinians in Nablus-area raids and issued demolition orders for seven apartments east of Qalandia, giving owners until Eid al-Adha ends to self-demolish. Gaza Leadership Strike: Hamas confirmed the killing of Mohammed Odeh, head of its military wing, in a Gaza City strike that also killed his wife and two children, with Israel saying it targeted his hideouts. US-Iran Talks Under Strain: Trump told reporters Iran is “negotiating on fumes” and said the US is not satisfied, while Iran warned of a “crushing response” after US strikes near the Strait of Hormuz; Iran also claimed a draft deal could reopen the strait within a month, which the White House called “complete fabrication.” Strait of Hormuz Shipping Signals: Iran said 25 commercial vessels transited under its coordination, as CENTCOM described “self-defence” strikes on missile sites and mine-laying boats. Travel Trade/Bookings: Advantage Travel Partnership launched a “Last-minute or Later” campaign to help agents sell amid uncertainty, pushing confidence and flexible booking support. Tourism Demand Shift: South Africa reported a strong April rebound with 19.5% more international arrivals year-on-year, despite Middle East-linked flight disruptions. Turkey Opposition Update: Ousted CHP leader Ozgur Ozel ruled out forming a new party after a court overturned his leadership, urging members to stay put.

Eid al-Adha under pressure: Türkiye’s first Eid prayers drew huge crowds, but the wider region stayed tense as Israel struck Gaza again, killing Hamas’ newly appointed armed wing commander Mohammad Odeh and injuring dozens on the eve of the holiday. Iran talks vs. strikes: Markets tracked fresh US “self-defence” strikes in southern Iran and mine-laying boat activity near the Strait of Hormuz, keeping oil near $100 and leaving ceasefire hopes fragile. Energy hit at home: Britain’s Ofgem raised the household energy price cap by 13% from July, directly tied to Middle East disruption. Travel ripple effects: Saga warned cruise fuel shortages could follow the Strait closure, while airlines and airports brace for summer schedule strain. Iraq politics and currency: Iraq’s Al-Hakim urged filling vacant cabinet posts after Eid, as the dollar held steady in Baghdad and Erbil during the holiday lull. Tourism lift in Türkiye: Diyarbakır reported near-full hotels for Eid, with İznik seeing growing international religious-tourism demand.