AGP Executive Report

UN Condemnation: Qatar condemned an attack on a UNIFIL site in southern Lebanon, calling it a serious breach of international humanitarian law, and urged an immediate investigation and accountability. Regional Diplomacy: In Berlin, Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson Dr Majed Al Ansari stressed respect for state sovereignty and called for an end to the war in Lebanon, while thanking European support. Transport Enforcement: Qatar’s Ministry of Transport inspected 66 limousine vehicles during Eid Al Adha; three were found violating safety/service rules and faced legal action. Payments Integration: Qatar Central Bank expanded HIMYAN card acceptance to Bahrain, boosting GCC digital payments links. Economy Watch: Qatar’s economy was described as resilient and expanding, with GDP up 38-fold over three decades and continued growth supported by investment inflows and diversification efforts. Markets: Qatar Stock Exchange ended the week down 2.41%, with investors watching the FTSE Russell review on June 18. World Cup Support: DAAM signed funding with QFA to back the Qatari Fans Delegation for FIFA World Cup 2026 travel and logistics.

Qatar diplomacy: Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson Dr. Majid Al Ansari took part in a Berlin dialogue on regional challenges, stressing Qatar’s mediation role and the need for Gulf security coordination, while also highlighting energy and water security tied to the Strait of Hormuz. World Cup build-up: Qatar captain Hassan Al Haydos says Group B is “tough” with Switzerland, Canada and Bosnia & Herzegovina, as Qatar targets a Round of 32 spot in the expanded 48-team tournament. Qatar Chamber ties: Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim met ambassadors from Germany, France, Australia and Jordan to discuss trade, investment climates and ways to deepen private-sector partnerships. Health and education: A Qatar-supported primary healthcare centre in Jordan’s Azraq camp reported 4,323 patients in April 2026, while Qatar Foundation partners marked major milestones including a $9m Parkinson’s research grant for Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar and the graduation of 74 Afghan students via the Qatar Scholarship for Afghans Project. Cyber youth push: Qatar’s National Cyber Security Agency opened registration for its 3rd Summer Cyber Youth Camp (ages 13–17) running July 12–Aug 6. Payments in the region: Qatar Central Bank expanded HIMYAN card acceptance to Bahrain, enabling Gulf-wide use of Qatar’s national payment card.

Olympics 2036 Bid: Fatima Sultan Al Kuwari has been appointed CEO of Qatar’s Olympic and Paralympic Games 2036 bid file, tasked with leading the strategy and coordination for the Middle East’s first Games bid. Transport & Safety: Qatar’s Ministry of Transport and Ashghal are pushing safer micromobility with an updated Qatar Bicycle Master Plan, built after reviewing 1,500+ km of routes and surveying thousands of users. Road Rules Update: Qatar’s standards body has adopted new technical requirements allowing an extra six-month permitted sales period for certain vehicle tires, with longer warranties only if dealers meet approved controls. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar’s Cabinet reiterated condemnation of Iranian attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain and approved measures to strengthen governance and investment, while Qatar and Saudi Arabia discussed de-escalation and mediation efforts. Gulf Tensions: Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi said strikes are “self-defense,” as Kuwait and Bahrain report renewed missile/drone attacks despite a US-Iran ceasefire. Food Safety: Qatar’s MoPH recalled GODIVA Kunafah & Pistachio Milk Chocolate Bar over undeclared eggs, warning people with egg allergies to avoid it. Sports & Qatar: Aspire Zone’s Sports City Advertising Company signed an MoU with Qatar Foundation for Social Work to expand community awareness campaigns. World Cup Watch: FIFA World Cup 2026 watch parties are set for Gulfstream Park’s Carousel Club in Miami, running June 11–July 19.

World Cup Countdown: FIFA has published the final 26-man squads for the 2026 tournament, with 48 teams and 1,248 players set for 104 matches across the US, Canada and Mexico. Qatar Football: Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui says Group B opponents matter less than how his side “competes from the first minute,” with Qatar opening against Switzerland on June 13, then Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Regional Security: Kuwait suspended air traffic after Terminal One at Kuwait International Airport was hit by Iranian missiles and drones, with repairs underway. Diplomacy on Al-Aqsa: Pakistan, Egypt, Türkiye, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE condemned Israeli settlers’ incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque and the raising of an Israeli flag there. US-Iran Tensions: The US carried out strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island, while Iran and the US trade accusations amid fragile ceasefire talks. Health & Wellness: Sidra Medicine and Zulal Wellness Resort signed an MoU to expand integrated wellness and preventive healthcare programs in Qatar. Defense Ties: Indonesia and Qatar moved to deepen defense industry cooperation via a joint venture to develop weapons systems.

Al-Aqsa Condemnation: Qatar joined seven other Arab and Islamic countries in a joint foreign-ministers statement condemning extremist Israeli settler incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque under Israeli protection and the raising of an Israeli flag in its courtyards, calling it a violation of international law and urging preservation of the holy-site status quo. World Cup Countdown: FIFA confirmed a record 1,248 players from 48 nations for the 2026 World Cup across Canada, Mexico and the United States, with squads now final and the tournament set to kick off in nine days. Qatar’s Preparations: Lekhwiya and UN INSARAG signed a cooperation framework to host and organise the 2026 search-and-rescue exercise in Qatar in October, aiming to boost readiness and coordination. Diplomacy & Trade: Qatar’s foreign trade minister met Pakistan’s commerce minister to discuss strengthening commercial and investment ties. Sports & Culture: Katara launched the Katara One Loft Race 2026, an international homing pigeon competition with a $205,000 prize pool.

Qatar-Iran Mediation: Qatar’s PM and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani spoke by phone with Iran’s FM Seyed Abbas Araghchi, reviewing regional developments and mediation efforts involving the US and Iran, as Lebanon’s situation remains tense. Local Governance & Health: The Shura Council approved a draft law on food in amended form and reviewed social proposals on family upbringing and values, while Qatar’s Labour Ministry launched a summer heat-stress protection campaign ahead of outdoor working-hour rules. Education Pathways: Qatar’s Education Ministry announced an Academic Bridging Program letting humanities-track students move into scientific and technical university disciplines via the Government Scholarship Program. Digital Economy: MCIT convened industry leaders for the first Digital Skills Framework roundtable, setting national standards for digital competencies. Biodiversity & Environment: Qatar Gene Bank said it has preserved 11.36 million seeds covering about 75% of wild plant varieties, boosting national biodiversity and food-security efforts. World Cup Build-Up: Qatar unveiled its final 26-player squad for the 2026 tournament as the countdown enters the final stretch.

Qatar–Kuwait Diplomacy: Qatar strongly condemned repeated Iranian attacks on Kuwait, calling them a violation of sovereignty and international law, and urged de-escalation while reaffirming solidarity with Kuwait. Heat Protection at Work: Qatar’s Labour Ministry launched a nationwide awareness campaign ahead of summer heat-stress rules, banning outdoor work (and non-ventilated shaded areas) from 10:00am to 3:30pm until Sept. 15, with employers required to post compliant schedules. Weekend Healthcare Access: Primary Health Care Corporation added Al Waab Health Center to its weekend service network, bringing weekend-operating centers to 22 nationwide. Eidiya ATM Update: Qatar Central Bank closed its seasonal “Eidiya ATM” service after withdrawals topped QR161 million across 10 locations. Ports & Trade: Mwani Qatar reported ports handled over 73,000 containers in May, up 44% month-on-month, as maritime activity surged. U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026: The group-stage schedule was revealed for Nov. 19–Dec. 13 at Aspire Zone, with Qatar set to open against Egypt in Group A.

Qatar Diplomacy: Qatar’s Foreign Ministry condemned Israel’s expanding attacks and the widening ground incursion in southern Lebanon, calling it a dangerous escalation and a breach of international humanitarian law, and urged the world to pressure Israel to stop targeting civilians. Middle East Security: The US says it struck Iranian radar and drone-control sites after Iran shot down a US MQ-1 Predator, while Kuwait reported intercepting hostile drones and missiles. World Cup 2026 (Qatar in focus): Qatar’s excise tax rules for sweetened drinks kick in July 6, 2026, with rates based on sugar levels; and Qatar’s World Cup preparations continue as Group B includes Qatar vs Canada and Switzerland. Tech & Business: Ooredoo Qatar launched Qatar’s first quantum-safe communications link with HBKU and the Ministry of Defence. Sports: Argentina’s World Cup defence begins in Kansas City, with Lionel Messi arriving as the team sets up its base camp.

Qatar Excise Tax Update: The General Tax Authority has published a guide for the new tiered volumetric excise tax on sweetened drinks, starting July 6, 2026, with rates rising by sugar level (low-sugar drinks exempt; higher-sugar tiers taxed per litre). Hajj Homecoming: Qatar’s official Hajj Mission will return to Doha on Monday after a smooth, well-coordinated pilgrimage season, with all pilgrims brought back via successive flights. Cybersecurity Push: Ooredoo Qatar says it has set up the region’s first quantum-safe communications link with HBKU and the Ministry of Defence, using quantum key distribution for end-to-end protection. Strait of Hormuz Talks: Qatar’s Deputy PM and Defence Minister Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani says Qatar opposes a permanent Hormuz toll but is open to a temporary, negotiable fee if tied to mine-clearing. Labour Safety: Qatar enforces a midday outdoor work ban from June 1 to Sept 15, prohibiting work between 10:00am and 3:30pm. Energy Prices: QatarEnergy set June fuel prices: diesel QR2.05/litre, 95-octane QR2.10/litre, and 91-octane QR2.00/litre. Diplomacy: Qatar’s foreign ministry official held a call with Lebanon’s FM, condemning Israeli attacks and urging full ceasefire implementation.

US-Iran Tensions: The US says it disabled another ship trying to breach its blockade and reach Iran, as Washington warns it is “more than capable” of resuming war if talks fail. Hormuz Strait Control: Iran is moving to formalize its authority over Strait of Hormuz shipping, raising fresh uncertainty for global energy routes. Qatar Health Push: Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health launched a hand-hygiene and infection-prevention campaign, including a WHO-backed webinar drawing 6,700 healthcare professionals. Maritime Safety: Oman warned of a suspected floating mine in the Strait of Hormuz, urging vessels to keep distance and report sightings. Qatar Sports: Qatar’s beach volleyball duo Sherif Younes and Ahmed Tijan booked a quarterfinal spot in Ostrava after a straight-sets win. Digital Qatar: A report highlights Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030 push, with major investment in AI, training, and support for hundreds of emerging digital firms.

Qatar Energy Loss: Qatar mourned former Deputy Prime Minister and Energy and Industry Minister Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, with a large public turnout for his funeral in Doha after his death in London. World Cup Focus: Argentina confirmed Lionel Messi in its 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, while Canada named Alphonso Davies despite a hamstring injury, and Ireland’s warm-up vs Qatar was marred by tennis-ball protests tied to Israel fixtures. Middle East Diplomacy: Iran rejected any “must” language and said no final US deal is reached, as Trump said a decision on an Iran ceasefire extension is near and reiterated red lines over nuclear issues and Hormuz. Abraham Accords Pressure: Trump’s push for Muslim states to sign the Abraham Accords as part of an Iran deal drew fresh backlash, with Pakistan again signaling it will not recognise Israel without a Palestinian state. Sports Beyond Qatar: Ireland’s Qatar friendly ended 1-0 after stoppages, and Canada’s World Cup roster spotlighted injury management ahead of June matches at home.

Qatar Hajj Praise: Qatari pilgrims for Hajj 1447 AH say this year’s Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah services were smoother, with round-the-clock medical, logistical and guidance support, praising close coordination with Saudi authorities and Qatar’s leadership. Regional Security Talks: Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister HE Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met Singapore’s defence leadership on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue, reviewing security updates and cooperation. Israel Fixture Protests: Ireland’s Aviva Stadium friendly vs Qatar was twice halted after fans threw Palestinian-flag tennis balls onto the pitch, with players saying the issue will “heat up” and the FAI board set to discuss Nations League Israel fixtures next week. Iran-US Ceasefire Uncertainty: Iran says no final understanding with Washington and rejects “language of must,” while Trump weighs a 60-day Iran ceasefire extension in the Situation Room, with conditions including Hormuz reopening and nuclear limits. Energy Watch: The IEA reports oil investment set to fall for a third year while LNG and natural gas investment—especially in Qatar—rises, as Hormuz disruption reshapes energy plans. Sports—Qatar in Action: Qatar’s beach volleyball duo Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan lost to the US at Ostrava Elite 16, with a key match next. Football—World Cup Focus: Argentina named a Messi-led 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, while Messi’s recent hamstring scare is being monitored.

World Cup Spotlight: Lionel Messi has been named captain of Argentina’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to begin in North America this summer, with coach Lionel Scaloni confirming the defending champions’ core from Qatar 2022 while managing fresh fitness worries after Messi’s left hamstring muscle fatigue. Qatar Eid Life: Katara’s Eid Al-Adha celebrations continue with cultural shows and family activities, including interactive planetarium programmes at Al Thuraya Planetarium. Public Health: Qatar’s MoPH renewed its RSV warning, stressing the virus can be serious for infants and highlighting free vaccination availability at PHCC centres and HMC hospitals. Cyber Security: Qatar’s NCSA outlined the foundations of its Data Classification Policy, mapping a data lifecycle approach for stronger digital protection. Hajj in Mina: Qatari pilgrims in Mina continue Tashreeq rituals, with the Qatari Hajj mission highlighting upgraded camp facilities and services. Travel Rules: Qatar’s Ministry of Interior ends the temporary entry-visa extensions from June 7, urging residents and visitors to regularise status. Eid Economy: Hotels, retail and wholesale markets report a strong Eid Al-Adha boost, driven by staycations and higher consumer spending.

Qatar–Kuwait Condemnation: Qatar’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned missile and drone attacks targeting Kuwait, calling them a violation of sovereignty and urging de-escalation. Hajj & Eid Services: Hamad International Airport rolled out guidance for arrivals after Eid Al Adha and Hajj, including Scan & Go e-gates and baggage tips, while Qatar’s Hajj Medical Unit introduced a Rapid Ambulance Scooter and upgraded rescue jacket for faster care in crowded holy sites. Digital Hajj Push: Qatar’s Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs launched an award for the best digital Hajj app, rewarding integrated services and smart AI support. Visa Rules: The Ministry of Interior ended temporary entry-visa extensions for expiring visas from June 7, urging residents to renew or leave on time. World Cup Build-Up: Ireland named Jack Moylan to start against Qatar in an international friendly, as Qatar continues preparations ahead of its World Cup opener. Energy & Diplomacy: A fragile US-Iran ceasefire extension and nuclear talks remain in doubt amid renewed strikes, keeping Strait of Hormuz shipping and regional tensions in focus.

Eid Culture in Qatar: Katara lit up with Ardah, fireworks and family activities on Eid Al-Adha, while the Ministry of Awqaf and HBKU hosted prayers and distributed 4,000 “Joy of Eid” gifts across 19 mosques. Education Digital Upgrade: Qatar’s Ministry of Education and Higher Education rolled out an updated package of specialised electronic platforms for the private education sector via its digital portal. Qatar in Iran talks: As US-Iran negotiations continue with Qatar and Oman involved, the White House rejected an Iranian state TV report of a draft MOU to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, calling it “total fabrication,” while US forces carried out defensive strikes after drone threats near Bandar Abbas. World Cup Focus (Qatar): Qatar’s World Cup build-up continues with squad and friendly coverage, including Ireland’s preparations for a Qatar friendly amid wider fixture controversy. Local Sports & Community: Qatar’s HBKU Minaretein Center held Eid prayers at Education City Stadium, reinforcing community ties ahead of the holiday season.

Qatar’s UN stance: Qatar reiterated its full commitment to the UN Charter and urged an end to ongoing breaches, warning that attacks on sovereignty erode the UN’s credibility. Eid Al Adha in Doha: Amir Sheikh Tamim performed Eid prayers at Lusail, with senior officials and diplomatic missions attending. US-Iran talks and Hormuz: Iran’s state TV claims a draft US-Iran framework would reopen the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels within a month and lift a naval blockade, while the White House calls the report “complete fabrication”; oil prices slid on the mixed signals. Regional diplomacy: Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif, in an Eid call with Iran’s president, said peace could unlock Iran’s economic potential and noted Qatar and Turkey are also involved. Legal shock for Qatar-linked firm: Singapore sentenced BYJU’s founder Byju Raveendran to six months for contempt over disclosure orders, with Qatar Holdings’ subsidiary behind the enforcement push. World Cup build-up: FIFA released the 2026 schedule, with the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19.