Oil Spill Response: Oman’s Environment Authority says about 12km of coastline near Ras Madrakah (Al Duqm) has been affected by the grounded Caroline Bezengi spill, while Masirah Island shores show no significant traces so far; monitoring and field operations continue and the offshore slick is still moving southeast toward open sea. Seafood Safety: The Food Safety and Quality Center is intensifying fish landing-site checks, market monitoring, and lab testing to protect consumers as precautionary measures ramp up. Hormuz Shipping Talks: Iran says it has reached an agreement with Oman on a Strait of Hormuz shipping route map after technical negotiations, though outstanding wording and conditions remain, and full normalisation depends on wider security issues. Maritime Biosecurity Risk: Researchers warn that 1,500+ ships delayed in the Persian Gulf could develop heavy biofouling and spread invasive species as “super-spreaders.” Khareef Health & Nature: Dhofar Municipality is stepping up insect control at khareef sites, using smart traps and approved spraying to reduce biting midge arnoot without disrupting visitors. Tourism & Heritage: Oman Across Ages Museum has topped 909,000 visitors through end-2025, while Khabarart in Taqah is drawing nature lovers during Khareef for its springs, valleys and foggy mountain views.