Strait of Hormuz Security & Shipping: The US and Iran escalated again after a fragile truce collapsed, with fresh strikes and renewed attacks on commercial vessels near Oman; the US also reinstated a blockade on Iranian ports while Trump abruptly dropped a proposed 20% transit toll, saying it would be replaced by trade and investment deals with Gulf states—leaving shipping uncertainty and higher oil prices in the background. Oman Foreign Policy: Oman’s FM Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi called the US-Iran conflict “a disaster,” urging a new, inclusive Gulf security architecture with UN backing. Maritime Safety for Oman: As Khareef draws crowds, Royal Oman Police boosted security and traffic operations on key routes to Dhofar, including checkpoints and faster emergency coordination. Water & Climate Resilience: Wadi Dayqah Dam opened to release about 15m m³ to recharge groundwater, while health authorities warned Oman’s heatwave conditions (up to mid/high-40s°C) require strict hydration and outdoor safety. Sustainable Development: The Sustainable City – Yiti hit a major safety milestone (25m+ safe working hours, no Lost Time Injury) as Oman pushes net-zero planning; Oman also continues environmental capacity-building, including carbon market governance discussions and youth-led sustainability creativity. Local Economy & Jobs: Al Ashkhara Tourism Forum returns (July 22–Aug 15) to boost heritage tourism and local enterprise, while Ruwaj and Future Pioneers Camp programmes support young entrepreneurs and market-ready skills.