❗️Gulf stocks edge higher despite lingering Strait of Hormuz shipping concerns Most Gulf stock markets closed higher on Wednesday as investors balanced hopes for a pause in the US-Israeli war on Iran with lingering concerns over shipping security in the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi Arabia's benchmark index recovered from early losses to finish 1.4% higher, supported by a 1.6% gain in Saudi Aramco. Dubai's index rose 0.8%, led by a 4.3% increase in Emirates NBD, while Abu Dhabi's benchmark added 0.3%. Qatar's index fell 0.5%, dragged down by a 1.4% decline in Industries Qatar.