AGP Executive Report

BRICS Summit Diplomacy: BRICS leaders unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration, urging maximum restraint in West Asia, opposing forced displacement from Gaza, and backing a two-state solution, while also pushing UN Security Council reform and rejecting unilateral sanctions. Lebanon-Israel Talks: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said there are “no new negotiations with Israel at present,” reiterating demands for withdrawal, prisoner/displaced returns, and reconstruction, with the next formal round expected in October after ambassador-level talks in Washington. Energy & Shipping Shockwaves: Iraq said attacks on Saudi’s East-West oil pipeline were launched from its territory, while Trump suggested Iran was “probably” behind it; the pipeline shutdown and Houthi advances toward Bab el-Mandeb are raising fears for regional oil and shipping routes. Humanitarian Pressure in Lebanon: The ICRC warned that humanitarian needs remain critical, with over 334,000 people still displaced as of late August, and called for continued support to health services, water restoration, and livelihood recovery. Solar Power Policy Warning: MP Jamil Al-Sayyed cautioned the government against fees or restrictions on residential solar systems, arguing Lebanon’s power reality makes such moves “playing with fire.”

Lebanon Sovereignty & Land Protection: Lebanon’s cabinet approved a draft law banning property sales in Israeli-occupied southern areas to stop wartime displacement and prevent land transfers via fronts or fictitious buyers, with Finance Minister Yassine Jaber saying the move protects local ownership and resilience. Diplomacy Update: President Joseph Aoun said there are “no new negotiations with Israel at present,” while the next Israel-Lebanon talks are set for October in Rome after a Washington meeting on the June framework. BRICS Declaration: BRICS adopted the New Delhi Declaration calling for extending Gaza ceasefire, backing a two-state solution, condemning unilateral tariffs, and urging Israel to withdraw from Lebanon and end policies tied to forced displacement, while also praising Lebanon’s ceasefire implementation under UNSC 1701. Regional Shipping Risk: Houthi forces seized the Red Sea island of Mayun/Perim and advanced along Yemen’s coast, tightening pressure on Bab el-Mandeb as Saudi Arabia shut a major oil pipeline “as a precaution.” AI & Security: Anthropic says users in Houthi-held Yemen tried to use Claude to develop advanced missiles, though a guided-rocket test failed. Human Rights Heatwave: NGOs warned that at least 23 prisoners in Tunisia died from extreme heat amid overcrowding, citing cases including a Lebanese businessman. Business/Trade Note: Google Israel CEO Barak Regev defended the company’s diversity of opinion after an employee protested Project Nimbus. Creative Economy: Lagos studio “Casa Mouda,” founded by Caline Chagoury Moudaber, plans a 2026 debut to promote contemporary African design and export-ready collaborations.

Red Sea Energy Shock: Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis seized Mayyun/Perim Island at the Bab el-Mandeb entrance, tightening their grip on a key shipping lane as Saudi Arabia shut down its East-West oil pipeline “as a precaution” after attacks—raising fears of higher oil and shipping disruption. US-Saudi Coordination: Reuters reports Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sought Trump’s help against the Houthis; Washington declined direct strikes but offered intelligence sharing and targeting support. Lebanon Talks Delayed: Axios says Israel-Lebanon talks in Rome were postponed to October, with scheduling conflicts cited. Lebanon Energy Project Watch: A Lebanon-focused report flags slow returns on the gas-to-energy project investment, highlighting execution and payoff concerns. Port Expansion Signal: Saudi ambassador attendance at the Beirut port container terminal expansion launch points to continued trade logistics investment momentum. Sanctions & Regional Pressure: Multiple reports note the US expanding sanctions on Hezbollah support networks, keeping Lebanon’s financial and political pressure in focus.

Beirut Port Expansion: Saudi Ambassador Fahad Al-Dosari attended the groundbreaking for CMA CGM’s US$100m Beirut container terminal expansion, aiming to more than double capacity from ~1.3m TEUs to 3m TEUs by 2028—an economic boost for Lebanon’s trade links. US Sanctions on Hezbollah Networks: The US Treasury imposed new sanctions on entities and individuals supporting Hezbollah and Iraq’s Kata’ib Hezbollah across Iraq, Lebanon, the UAE and Türkiye, targeting money-transfer and procurement channels tied to Iran’s IRGC-QF. Southern Lebanon Demolitions: Israel carried out explosions and shelling in southern Lebanon, including demolishing a public school in Mansouri, despite the US-mediated framework agreement—raising fresh pressure on Lebanon’s ability to protect the south. Red Sea Shock for Shipping: Iran-backed Houthis seized Mayun/Perim island at Bab el-Mandeb, tightening control over a key shipping chokepoint and adding uncertainty for regional trade. Oil and Costs Rising: Oil surged above $100 a barrel as Middle East tensions escalated, while US diesel prices jumped past $6 a gallon, threatening higher logistics costs for everyday goods.

Sanctions & Finance: The U.S. Treasury expanded “Operation Economic Outcast,” adding networks and individuals tied to Hezbollah and Kata’ib Hezbollah across Iraq, Lebanon, the UAE and Turkey, while tightening Iran-related licensing. Security & Trade Routes: Yemen’s Houthis seized Mocha on the Red Sea, raising pressure on Bab al-Mandeb, a route carrying a large share of global trade—an escalation that’s also pushing oil and market jitters. Lebanon Sovereignty Push: The U.S. urged Lebanon to plan disarmament across its territory under the Trilateral Framework, while Hezbollah MPs hit back. Southern Lebanon Front: Israel said it destroyed Hezbollah’s underground tunnel network under Ali al-Taher Ridge, claiming it completes an operational “security zone” and threatens wider regional spillover. Local Business Impact: Mt. Lebanon’s Bravo Italian Kitchen abruptly closed, leaving about 30 workers stunned and highlighting how fast Lebanon-area hospitality can be disrupted.

Hormuz Shock for Lebanon’s Economy: Iran expanded a prohibited zone around the Strait of Hormuz and attacked vessels, pushing Brent back above $100 a barrel and raising fears of higher fuel and food costs across the region. Lebanon Sovereignty Push: The US Embassy in Beirut said war and peace decisions should rest with Lebanese state institutions, urging the Lebanese Army to enforce sovereignty in the south amid US-sponsored talks on Israeli withdrawal and disarmament of non-state armed groups. South Lebanon Tensions: The same diplomatic backdrop comes as Lebanon and Israel continue negotiations while the wider conflict escalates around Lebanon’s border. Regional Business Angle: With energy risk rising, Lebanon’s trade and logistics outlook faces fresh pressure as shipping routes and oil-linked costs remain volatile.

Oil & Inflation Watch: Oil prices surged as Brent jumped above $100 a barrel amid renewed U.S.-Iran clashes, with markets bracing for higher energy costs and fresh inflation pressure. Shipping Under Fire: Iran expanded a “restricted” maritime zone around the Strait of Hormuz, while both sides traded strikes on tankers and warships, raising risks for Gulf trade routes. Lebanon Budget Tensions: Retired servicemen escalated protests over the 2027 budget, demanding salary and wage reforms be reflected in allocations, after talks in Beirut failed to deliver clear figures. Digital Payments Push: Banque du Liban cut card-payment merchant fees to encourage a shift away from cash, aiming to reduce theft and improve transparency as card use rises. Southern Lebanon Security: President Joseph Aoun chaired a security meeting focused on Nabatieh, stressing the Lebanese army’s role and warning against any security vacuum. Israel-Lebanon Friction: Lebanon’s army said Israel violated the U.S.-brokered framework deal thousands of times, citing deadly strikes and displacement. Business & Jobs: O’Charley’s announced it is closing all Middle Tennessee locations with minimal notice, including a Lebanon outlet.

Public Finance & Pay: Retired servicemen blocked roads and protested at Riad Al-Solh Square, rejecting the 2027 draft state budget for not adjusting ranks and salaries, and demanding a minimum wage of $1,200; talks with ministers are ongoing ahead of the Finance Ministry’s figures. Reconstruction & Government: Lebanon’s PM Nawaf Salam visited Tripoli after a building collapse, pushing for long-term safety measures and planning a South Lebanon trip to unveil reconstruction projects under a World Bank loan. SME Support: Lebanon Valley Chamber Foundation launched a 2026 micro-grant program for small businesses and nonprofits, offering up to $30,000 total (individual grants up to $3,000) across professional development, paid internships, business improvements and technology upgrades. Local Tech Governance: City of Lebanon (Ohio) paused its Flock camera program, disabling cameras and adding covers while staff reviews the contract and termination options. Migration & Humanitarian: Lebanon’s army rescued 22 people off Tripoli after a smuggling boat broke down, with Syrians and Lebanese among those onboard. Business & Culture: Whisky Live Beirut 2026 returns with 60+ producers and a trade-focused setup spanning tastings, masterclasses and hospitality areas.

Middle East Security & Trade: The war widened as Iran-backed Houthis struck four Saudi cities, wounding 73 and hitting oil installations, while the US said it destroyed five Iranian crude carriers and struck Iranian tankers after missile attempts on a US Navy warship; Iran then hit a US base near Al Azraq in Jordan, with markets watching oil-price pressure. Sanctions & Finance: The UK announced sanctions on West Bank settlement goods and specific extremist settlers, plus action against Hezbollah-linked Al-Qard Al-Hassan bank, as regional governments coordinate restrictions. Lebanon Stakes: Egypt, Greece and Cyprus urged a Gaza plan second phase and an end to Israeli attacks on Lebanon, while Israel’s Ali al-Taher push keeps Lebanon’s border security and UNIFIL replacement talks in focus. Lebanon Economy: Lebanon’s deposits crisis remains a key business question: what happens to the $79bn owed to banks and depositors. US-Iran Aviation Pressure: The US added 36 sanctions targeting Iran’s aviation sector under “Operation Economic Outcast,” aiming to cut off airlines and related services from the global financial system. Local Business/Community: Lebanon hosts a rural housing needs conference, and Deloitte donated laptops to the Lebanese Food Bank via D-CARES.

Middle East Security: Arab states and institutions—including Lebanon—condemned Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities and energy facilities, with GCC and regional leaders warning of wider instability and pressure on Red Sea shipping. Lebanon Conflict: Israel’s intensified strikes in southern Lebanon left at least 27 dead and 69 wounded over three days, as fighting around the Ali al-Taher ridge escalated. Lebanon Finance/Policy: Banque du Liban Governor Karim Souaid said Lebanon’s “Gap Law” for deposit recovery is unlikely to pass this year, with gold to be used only as a last resort if BDL falls short, while deposit liabilities were put at about $79.5bn. Regional Trade/Shipping: Qatar warned that reopening the Strait of Hormuz must be an international priority, calling the risk of an “industrial catastrophe” if the crisis drags on. UK Sanctions: The UK announced sweeping sanctions on Israeli settlement goods and services, with implementation expected to take 6–9 months.

Lebanon-Israel Escalation: Israeli airstrikes across southern Lebanon killed at least 27 people and wounded 69 over three days, with the dead concentrated around Nabatieh and Kafr Rumman, including women, children and a paramedic, as residents describe a widening “ring of fire” and renewed displacement. Lebanon’s Financial Outlook: Banque du Liban governor Karim Souaid told CNN Economic the financial gap law likely won’t be enacted for another 6–8 months, citing ongoing comments from the IMF and the need to unify positions; he also said BDL obligations to banks and depositors stand around $79.5bn. Energy & Markets: Oil prices jumped to six-week highs as Iran warned it would strike energy infrastructure and tighten control around the Strait of Hormuz, raising fresh inflation worries and pushing Brent and WTI higher. Regional Diplomacy: China’s Xi Jinping called for stronger coordination and respect for sovereignty in West Asia, linking the push to ongoing wars involving Palestine, Lebanon and Iran. Business/Consumer Risk: Separate reports highlight ongoing fraud pressure, with BBB Scam Tracker data showing Lebanon listed among Ohio cities with scam reports in July.

Lebanon-UAE Economic Push: President Joseph Aoun spoke by phone with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, thanking Abu Dhabi for support to ease hardships and discussing expanding economic, trade, and investment ties. Southern Lebanon Impact: Israeli strikes in the Nabatiyeh area killed at least four and injured 20, with reports of damage to Ghandour hospital and government-linked buildings. Sovereignty vs. Arms Debate: Samir Geagea renewed calls for a decisive state role, warning against a “deep state” and arguing Lebanon must assert sovereignty over land and decisions. Aid & Tech for Food Security: Deloitte donated repurposed laptops to the Lebanese Food Bank via its D-CARES program, aiming to boost operational capacity and digital inclusion. Business-Adjacent Culture: Aoun’s office also highlighted Lebanon’s need for international action as regional escalation threatens stability and services. Regional Market Context: Oil-price risk rose on Middle East escalation, with analysts warning prices could climb sharply if shipping disruptions persist.

Lebanon-Israel Escalation: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged the US and the international community to stop renewed Israeli strikes after attacks in Nabatiyeh killed at least seven people, damaged the Finance Ministry building, and destroyed the out-of-service Ghandour Hospital, with Lebanon calling it a “dangerous escalation” targeting state institutions and health facilities. Regional Energy & Trade: Lebanon’s Cabinet approved supplying natural gas via Aqaba Port’s floating unit, with Jordan importing LNG, regasifying at Aqaba, and transporting gas through Syria to Lebanon to support electricity generation and cut government energy bills via efficiency audits. Strait of Hormuz Tensions: The US rejected Iran’s claim it struck a US unmanned vessel, as Iran warned of an “exclusion zone” and South Korea weighed possible participation in allied operations to keep navigation safe. Business Risk Watch: Separate US consumer-fraud reports show ongoing scam losses—Illinois cities like Crystal Lake and Bloomington logged multiple BBB Scam Tracker complaints in July—highlighting continued pressure on household finances. Culture & Tourism: Qatar’s S’hail 2026 hunting and falconry exhibition opens Tuesday with 14 countries and 155 exhibitors, including Lebanon, blending heritage, commerce, and tourism.

Lebanon-Israel Escalation: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned renewed Israeli strikes on Nabatieh and surrounding towns, saying attacks hit state institutions and health facilities, including damage to the Finance Ministry building and the destruction of Ghandour Hospital, after Israel said Hezbollah drone launches triggered retaliation. Ceasefire Pressure: Lebanon urged the US and the international community to stop “violations” tied to the US-mediated framework and warned the strikes threaten the fragile cessation-of-hostilities arrangement. Humanitarian Fallout: Thousands of displaced Lebanese families are still sheltering in schools as the school year nears, with education officials trying to reopen while keeping shelters running. Regional Energy Tensions: The US-Iran standoff spilled into shipping again, with Iran claiming it struck a US-linked unmanned boat in the Strait of Hormuz after US strikes on Iranian tankers, raising fears of wider escalation. Business & Trade Angle: Lebanon’s central bank has selected Alvarez & Marsal to conduct a new audit of transactions as part of efforts to overhaul the financial sector and tackle corruption. Local Economy/Branding: Dancing Goat Coffee is opening in Beirut, marking its first international branch and running a flight giveaway for one winner.

UNRWA Funding Crunch in Lebanon: Palestinian refugees in Lebanon’s camps are facing daily survival shocks as UNRWA cuts essential aid, with families in places like Nahr al-Bared forced to choose between food and medicine amid electricity, water, rent and job shortages. Central Bank Oversight: Lebanon’s central bank has selected Alvarez & Marsal for a new audit aimed at scrutinizing transactions for graft, signaling tighter financial controls. Education Cost Relief: With school-year expenses rising, Beirut families are leaning on community schoolbook lending libraries that expand across neighborhoods to share textbooks and cut household costs. Southern Lebanon Security & Redeployment: Israel is reportedly discussing a new security zone closer to the border and preparing force reductions after operations around the Ali al-Taher ridge, while claims of tunnel clearing and “operational control” raise uncertainty for local stability. Maritime Tensions & Trade Risk: Qatar is pushing de-escalation and rejecting politicization of maritime navigation, warning that Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten regional trade and energy stability. Sanctions Hit Iran Oil Finance: The US sanctioned a Turkish bank over an alleged Iranian oil revenue evasion scheme involving front companies and gold/cash transfers, underlining pressure on hard-currency flows.

Arab League Diplomacy: Tunisia took over the Arab League Council presidency as the 166th session opened in Cairo, with delegates putting Iranian attacks on Gulf states, the Palestinian cause, and developments across Syria, Sudan, Lebanon, Yemen and Libya on the agenda. Lebanon Security: Lebanon’s health ministry said Israeli strikes overnight killed three people in southern and eastern areas, while the IDF said it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure after a drone incident in the security zone. Regional Energy Risk: Iran accused the U.S. of striking an Iranian tanker near Kharg Island, a key oil export hub, with Iranian media reporting four missiles and no casualties—raising fresh shipping and escalation concerns in the Gulf. Palestinian Economy & Society: The Palestinian Football Association restarted domestic competition with the “Thousand Martyrs Cup,” running matches across the West Bank, Gaza and Lebanon’s refugee camps after nearly three years of suspension. Local Consumer Safety: BBB Scam Tracker data showed Scottsburg (Indiana) tied for 55th with one scam report in July, while Benton (Illinois) recorded two reports and $59.50 in combined losses, with phishing the most common scam type.