Energy Deal: Kuwait Petroleum/Kuwait Oil Company has signed a $16bn lease-and-leaseback agreement with a consortium led by Blackstone, Brookfield and KKR for Kuwait’s pipeline network, creating a JV where KOC keeps operational control and a 51% stake, with an upfront $7.85bn payment to support capital plans. Water Infrastructure: CGC says it emerged the lowest bidder for a KD160m ($516m) southern Kuwait treated-water project, covering development, construction, operation and maintenance over five years (award letters pending). Diplomacy: Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah will visit Pakistan on July 28–29 for talks with Ishaq Dar, reviewing bilateral ties and regional developments, with a courtesy call expected on Pakistan’s leadership. Regional Security: Kuwait condemned attempted drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities in the Eastern Province and Riyadh, calling them a violation of sovereignty and international law, and reaffirmed solidarity with Saudi Arabia. Human Rights & Health Rules: Kuwait approved legal reforms to strengthen its national human rights framework, and the Ministry of Health’s new public appearance and professional attire regulations took effect. Business/Markets: Kuwait’s $6bn sovereign bond issue drew over $18bn in orders, signaling strong investor demand despite regional tensions. Sports & Culture: Kuwait’s youth handball team secured fifth place at the Asian Championship; OSN+ will stream Kuwaiti-created superhero series “THE 99” across the region.