Strait of Hormuz Diplomacy: Iran and Oman held the first joint committee meeting in Muscat to discuss future governance and navigation arrangements for the strategic waterway, with talks framed around Article 5 of the Islamabad Memorandum and coastal-state rights. US-Iran Stand-Down: After days of tit-for-tat strikes, Washington and Tehran reportedly agreed to halt “kinetic activity” for now and keep talks moving, with vessels said to be able to move freely while negotiations continue. Shipping Pressure: Commercial traffic through Hormuz continued at reduced pace after attacks on vessels near Oman, keeping insurers and shipowners cautious as operational confidence wobbles. Oman Identity & Family Law Data: Oman issued 81,630 new national identity cards and 290,918 new/renewed passports in 2025; notary records show marriage contracts rising and divorce documents up 9.9% over two years. Labour Enforcement: Oman’s Ministry of Labour is stepping up inspections to enforce mandatory midday summer work breaks on open sites. Energy & Trade: Oman LNG launched its first shipment aboard the new “Muscat LNG” vessel, while PWP opened a tender for 1.5 GW of solar projects. Foreigners’ Property Rules: Oman’s Housing Ministry clarified that residency regulation changes do not expand foreign property ownership beyond designated areas. Travel Rule Update: Oman waived the negative HIV medical certificate requirement for Filipino visitors using the 14-day visa-free entry privilege.