Gulf Security & Shipping: Bahrain’s Defence Force said it intercepted and destroyed Iranian aerial attacks targeting civilians, as the US reimposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports and launched daytime strikes aimed at degrading Iran’s ability to hit commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Retaliation Across the Region: Iran’s IRGC claimed missile and drone strikes on US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain after US airstrikes, while Iran warned the Strait would stay closed until “acts of aggression” end and threatened other export corridors. Energy Markets: Oil prices climbed around 2% as hostilities worsened, with analysts warning prolonged disruptions could tighten global supplies and push prices higher. Policy U-turns: Trump’s proposed 20% Hormuz transit fee was dropped within a day, replaced by talk of trade and investment deals, even as military pressure intensified. Bahrain’s Industry Angle: With Hormuz traffic reported near standstill at times, the Bahrain economy’s exposure to energy and logistics risk remains front and centre, alongside ongoing regional calls for UN action against maritime threats. Culture & Creative Sector: Separately, Bahrain hosted a summer art showcase (“Almasyaf”) bringing together 200 Bahrain-based artists—an upbeat reminder of local creative industry momentum amid regional uncertainty.