Gulf Security & Travel Advisory: The US and Iran escalated strikes across the Middle East, with attacks hitting bridges, energy sites and port infrastructure as the Strait of Hormuz battle intensifies; the US State Department urged Americans to reconsider travel to/through the region, while shipping traffic and confidence remain shaky. Oman Infrastructure Push: Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and IT says road works under the 11th Five-Year Plan are moving fast, with about 61 road projects under execution and 22 already past 70% completion by mid-2026, supporting connectivity for tourism and logistics. ASEAN Cooperation: Oman is in Manila for the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting to expand trade and investment ties, with ASEAN sectors including logistics, maritime transport, energy, green hydrogen, food security, tourism and digital transformation; Oman’s trade surplus with ASEAN is cited at about $3.4bn. Tourism Development: Telegraph Island in Khasab is reported 83% complete, with new visitor facilities and marine access aimed at boosting Musandam tourism. Sports Spark 2026: Sports Spark opened at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre with an expanded summer programme running to Aug 15, featuring 20+ sports and family activities. Investment Update: Oman’s Social Security Investment Fund assets rose to about JOD 19.7bn by end-June 2026, driven by net investment income and record cash dividends.