Semafor Gulf

Those who predict the strait’s waning influence are overestimating the ease of rerouting trade and underestimating Iran’s ability to retain leverage over the waterway, as Tehran and Muscat tussle for control.

A new shipping route is likely to emerge out of the expected agreement between Tehran and Muscat this week, and the chokepoint’s relevance will likely remain.

The kingdom has built a global reputation in the specialty through the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program, which has operated since 1990.

After an initial exodus, the loss of 61,000 residents was quickly reversed.

Renewed strikes and slower traffic through the Strait of Hormuz later in July may undermine the chances of a sustained rebound.

Oil prices plunged after reports that the US, Iran, and Oman had agreed the countours of a deal that would allow traffic through the key waterway.

The private equity giant is already pouring billions into data centers in the Gulf, committing $5 billion across the Middle East over the past 18 months.

Increasing security cooperation between Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, and Türkiye could become the nucleus of a wider group for ad hoc coordination.

Sudan’s civil war has fuelled the flow of gold — both legal and illegal — between the two countries.

The reported discussions about whether Elbit Systems would sell the UAE more than $1 billion of military gear come as ties between Israel and the emirates warm.

Saudi oil giant says the Iran war has caused no material disruptions and expects stronger demand as global inventories are rebuilt.

Iran and Oman are discussing a temporary route for commercial shipping, but analysts sounded the alarm over worsening risks for tankers.