OIC Members Consider Reviewing Ties with Countries that ‘Desecrate Holy Quran’

A young girl in Iraq holds a copy of the holy Quran during a massive rally against the desecration of the Quran in Sweden. (AP)
A young girl in Iraq holds a copy of the holy Quran during a massive rally against the desecration of the Quran in Sweden. (AP)
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OIC Members Consider Reviewing Ties with Countries that ‘Desecrate Holy Quran’

A young girl in Iraq holds a copy of the holy Quran during a massive rally against the desecration of the Quran in Sweden. (AP)
A young girl in Iraq holds a copy of the holy Quran during a massive rally against the desecration of the Quran in Sweden. (AP)

The member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) are currently contemplating suitable measures in response to instances of Quran desecration and burning, particularly in Sweden and Denmark.

These actions may involve the implementation of crucial political decisions and measures, such as the summoning of their respective ambassadors to Sweden and Denmark for consultation.

The foreign ministers of the member states of the OIC held an extraordinary meeting in Jeddah on Monday to tackle the repeated desecration of the Quran, issuing an extraordinary resolution regarding these acts.

In a statement, the OIC stressed the need for a reevaluation, whether on the economic, cultural, or other levels, to express nations’ rejection of the repeated insults to the sanctity of the Quran and Islamic symbols.

It also commended the measures taken by OIC member states in their relations with Sweden and Denmark as part of their condemnation of this offense.

The resolution welcomed the decision of the OIC Secretary-General to suspend the status of Sweden’s special envoy to the organization.

This suspension aligns with the final statement of the Executive Committee during its meeting on July 2, until Swedish authorities take necessary measures to criminalize acts of disrespect towards sacred Islamic symbols and prevent their recurrence.

Moreover, the resolution strongly condemned any form of hate speech that incites discrimination, hostility, or violence, whether disseminated through printed media, audiovisual means, electronic platforms, social media, or any other channels.

It vehemently denounced the repeated and flagrant attacks on the sanctity of the Quran, with the lates incident taking place in Stockholm on July 20 and Copenhagen on July 24.

The resolution expressed deep concern over the recurrence of such offenses and expressed profound regret for the Swedish authorities’ continued issuance of permits that allow them, and for their failure to take necessary measures to prevent them in both Sweden and Denmark.

The ministers decided to dispatch a delegation from the OIC, led by the Secretary-General, to urge the European Commission to express condemnation on behalf of the organization’s members for the crime of desecrating the Quran.

They called for necessary measures to be taken to ensure that such criminal acts are not repeated under the pretext of freedom of expression.



Crown Prince Leads Saudi Delegation to Arab Summit in Bahrain

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
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Crown Prince Leads Saudi Delegation to Arab Summit in Bahrain

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud headed to Manama on Thursday to lead the Kingdom’s delegation to the 33rd Arab Summit hosted by Bahrain, the Royal Court said.

It added that the Crown Prince traveled to Bahrain following directives from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.


Sheikh Abdullah Al Khalifa to Asharq Al-Awsat: Bahrain Summit Faces Historic Moment

Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa
Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa
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Sheikh Abdullah Al Khalifa to Asharq Al-Awsat: Bahrain Summit Faces Historic Moment

Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa
Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa

Bahrain’s Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, emphasized that the upcoming Arab Summit in Bahrain is a significant event, given the pressing issues in the region.

In exclusive statements to Asharq Al-Awsat, Sheikh Abdullah highlighted that the summit aims to address both immediate crises and long-term development goals.

“This summit marks a crucial moment for the Arab world, as we tackle issues like the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza, and instability in Sudan, Libya, and Yemen. We need to act fast on security and economic challenges,” he reminded.

Sheikh Abdullah stressed that the summit’s agenda will be packed with tough issues.

He stressed the importance of Arab unity in facing crises and securing national interests through fair and comprehensive peace.

Moreover, Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the strategic significance of the Arab Summit in Bahrain, building on past successes to address the aspirations of Arab nations.

He commended Saudi Arabia’s effective leadership in the previous session, noting its influential and moderate role in the Arab League.

Sheikh Abdullah expressed confidence in Bahrain’s ability to achieve concrete results at the summit, emphasizing the search for innovative solutions to challenges.

He hoped for impactful decisions to bolster Arab security, foster diplomatic resolutions to conflicts, and promote sustainable development.

Sheikh Abdullah underlined Bahrain’s reliance on the outcomes of the Manama Declaration, reflecting a shared desire to enhance Arab cooperation.

Regarding preparations, he assured that every effort had been made to ensure readiness for the summit.

Reflecting on his delegation’s participation in finalizing the summit agenda, Sheikh Abdullah observed optimism among delegation heads for a summit marked by unity and solidarity.

“Despite growing conflicts in the Middle East and global security challenges, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries aim to keep regional balance intact,” affirmed Sheikh Abdullah.

“They're tightening policies, teaming up with economic groups for mutual gain, and securing maritime safety,” he added.

He stressed that unity and agreement “are vital for stability.”

“There’s a Gulf belief in the need to keep up efforts against challenges through sustainable methods, like boosting self-capabilities, using effective diplomacy, and forming external partnerships,” revealed Sheikh Abdullah.

“Bahrain sees unity among Gulf nations as vital for Arab security. We hope Bahrain’s leadership at the summit will lead to swift action and decisions that protect Arab interests and serve just causes,” he added.

On the Palestinian issue, Sheikh Abdullah emphasized its importance, stating it’s a top priority at the Arab Summit in Bahrain.

“We aim to end the suffering in Gaza soon and ensure peace and security for all in the region,” he asserted.

Regarding Bahrain’s stance on Palestine, he affirmed support for the Arab Peace Initiative and international resolutions, aiming to achieve Palestinians’ rights and establish their independent state through a two-state solution.

He urged the international community, especially the UN Security Council, to implement ceasefire resolutions in Gaza promptly and ensure unhindered humanitarian aid. He also stressed the need for unified Arab action at the summit to stop aggression and end the ongoing crisis.


Arab Summit Draft: UN Protection Forces Pending Two-State Solution

Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)
Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)
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Arab Summit Draft: UN Protection Forces Pending Two-State Solution

Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)
Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)

An unofficial draft of the final communique for the Arab Summit in Bahrain, set to take place on Thursday, obtained by Asharq Al-Awsat, includes a call by Arab nations to deploy a UN-backed international peacekeeping force in the occupied Palestinian territories until a two-state solution is achieved.

The draft emphasizes the need for a timeline for political negotiations to establish a viable Palestinian state along pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. It holds Israel responsible for damaging cities and civilian infrastructure in Gaza.

Besides strongly condemning Israeli attacks on Gaza and calling for an immediate halt to the violence, the draft statement demands the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, lifting the blockade, and opening crossings for humanitarian aid.

The draft also rejects any forced displacement of Palestinians and urges a quick and lasting ceasefire, protection of civilians, and release of hostages.

It suggests Arab nations gather for a UN-sponsored conference to find a political solution for Palestine, leading to a two-state agreement.

It also urges Arab foreign ministers to push for swift recognition of Palestine by engaging with Western and global counterparts.

This aims to support Palestine’s full membership in the UN and intensify efforts for recognition by all Security Council members.

The draft strongly opposes any backing for armed groups or militias working outside state boundaries and pursuing foreign agendas conflicting with Arab interests. It stresses Arab unity in defending sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions against external threats.

It reaffirms a firm stand against terrorism in all forms and supports efforts to cut off its funding sources and combat extremist organizations. The draft urges action against extremism, hate speech, and incitement, condemning such acts for their negative impact on peace and security.

It calls for promoting values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and rejecting hatred and discrimination. Expressing concern over recent military escalation in the region, it urges all parties to avoid war risks and heightened tension.

The draft asks the UN Security Council to uphold international peace, implement resolutions for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, and prevent further escalation and spread of war in the Middle East.


Aboul Gheit to Asharq Al-Awsat: Gaza Overshadows Arab Summit, but Other Crises Discussed

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Aboul Gheit to Asharq Al-Awsat: Gaza Overshadows Arab Summit, but Other Crises Discussed

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit affirmed that while the Israeli attack on Gaza dominates discussions at the Arab Summit in Bahrain, the gathering would still address regional issues like the crises in Sudan, Yemen, and Libya, as well as water security and other shared Arab concerns.

“Undoubtedly, the Palestinian crisis and the Israeli attacks on Gaza overshadowed the summit discussions. From the preparatory meetings onward, there was a focus on resolutions concerning the difficult situation in Gaza,” Aboul Gheit told Asharq Al-Awsat.

“However, the agenda also covers a range of other important issues for the Arab world, including addressing crises in Sudan, Yemen, and Libya, as well as concerns about water and cybersecurity, among other political and developmental matters,” he added.

Aboul Gheit, discussing with Asharq Al-Awsat the Arab Summit in Bahrain, stated that recent efforts had shifted global opinion against the Israeli occupation, calling it a system of apartheid outdated for our times.

“I believe the compass of international public opinion has indeed shifted,” said the Arab League chief.

“Just last November, many European countries, as well as the United States, were giving Israel the green light to continue its massacre in Gaza,” he added.

“But today, everyone is talking about a ceasefire and even describing the occupation’s violations as nothing short of ethnic cleansing,” asserted Aboul Gheit.

He cautioned Israel against rash actions like invading Rafah or implementing displacement plans, warning of serious consequences for regional stability and its relationship with Egypt, rooted in a peace treaty.

“The plan to displace people is rejected by Palestinians, Arabs, and the world. Israel may have considered it at the start of the Gaza attack but was surprised by strong opposition, especially from Palestinians and Egyptians, who naturally align with Arab views,” said Aboul Gheit.

The Arab League chief urged Israel to be mindful of its relationship with the largest Arab country, emphasizing potential security repercussions.

“Israel needs to pay attention to the potential consequences of its reckless policies in risking its relationship with the largest Arab state. If this happens, it could have significant repercussions on Israel's overall security posture,” he said.

 

Regarding regional dynamics, Aboul Gheit addressed the Arab League’s stance on a joint Arab force for Gaza and commented on Arab relations with Türkiye and Iran, highlighting the League’s commitment to resolving crises and meeting Arab aspirations.


Bahrain to Announce Initiatives for Fresh Start in Joint Arab Action

The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)
The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)
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Bahrain to Announce Initiatives for Fresh Start in Joint Arab Action

The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)
The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)

A senior Bahraini official said that the Bahrain Declaration, which will be issued Thursday at the conclusion of the 33rd Arab Summit, will express a unified Arab position toward many Arab files, mainly the Palestinian issue.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Ambassador Ahmed Al-Tarifi, Head of Arab and African Affairs at the Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that Manama will announce, on the sidelines of the summit, a set of initiatives that will constitute a new beginning for joint Arab action.

He noted that the Bahraini Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Zayani, undertook a tour to Arab capitals, to coordinate with his counterparts on the Bahrain Declaration, saying the summit will express “the unified Arab position” towards the current developments in the Arab world.

“In addition, a number of initiatives will be launched by the Kingdom of Bahrain, which will constitute a new beginning in joint Arab action,” he remarked.

The Bahraini official pointed to challenges facing the Arab world, foremost of which is the Palestinian file and the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and the rest of the Palestinian territories. He also spoke about other problems, including the situation in Sudan and Libya, and food security in the Arab world, stressing that all these issues will be discussed by the Arab leaders on Thursday.

Asked about Bahrain’s initiative to host an international conference on the Palestinian cause and the two-state solution, the Director of Arab and African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Manama is “determined to host an international peace conference that addresses the Palestinian issue and the two-state solution, within the framework of ongoing Arab and international effort in this regard.”

He added: “We saw one of the outcomes of this endeavor, last week in the United Nations General Assembly when Palestine received the votes of 143 countries. This is an Arab diplomatic success that reflects the results of joint Arab influence.”


Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Mauritanian Counterpart

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA
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Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Mauritanian Counterpart

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with Mauritanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad Dr. Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug in the Bahraini capital, Manama.

During Wednesday’s meeting, the two sides reviewed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen and develop them in various fields and discussed developments in the region and the world.


New Kuwaiti Government Is Sworn in before Emir

A photo provided by the Kuwaiti news agency KUNA, shows the members of the Kuwaiti government posing along with Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (C) for a group picture in Kuwait City, on May 15, 2024. (KUNA / AFP)
A photo provided by the Kuwaiti news agency KUNA, shows the members of the Kuwaiti government posing along with Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (C) for a group picture in Kuwait City, on May 15, 2024. (KUNA / AFP)
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New Kuwaiti Government Is Sworn in before Emir

A photo provided by the Kuwaiti news agency KUNA, shows the members of the Kuwaiti government posing along with Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (C) for a group picture in Kuwait City, on May 15, 2024. (KUNA / AFP)
A photo provided by the Kuwaiti news agency KUNA, shows the members of the Kuwaiti government posing along with Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (C) for a group picture in Kuwait City, on May 15, 2024. (KUNA / AFP)

The new Kuwaiti government, Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, took the oath of office on Wednesday before Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Sheikh Meshal called upon the new government to pursue promised reforms while upholding the principles of justice, transparency, and openness.

Emphasizing that the nation is embarking on a new phase of dedicated and responsible work, he underlined the importance of unwavering dedication and safeguarding the freedoms and interests of the Kuwaiti people.

He urged accountability and for the government to set priorities, unify efforts, harness energies to achieve its goals.


Saudi, Slovenian FMs Discuss Boosting Bilateral Ties

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with Slovenia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with Slovenia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi, Slovenian FMs Discuss Boosting Bilateral Ties

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with Slovenia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with Slovenia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received in Riyadh on Wednesday Slovenia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon.

They discussed ways to bolster cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Slovenia in various fields and intensify bilateral coordination on issues of common interest.

They also exchanged views on regional and international developments.

Prince Saad bin Mansour Al Saud, along with several officials, attended the meeting.


50th Saudi Plane with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

The 50th Saudi relief airplane, operated by KSrelief, arrived at Al-Arish in Egypt on Wednesday to deliver aid to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. (SPA)
The 50th Saudi relief airplane, operated by KSrelief, arrived at Al-Arish in Egypt on Wednesday to deliver aid to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. (SPA)
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50th Saudi Plane with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

The 50th Saudi relief airplane, operated by KSrelief, arrived at Al-Arish in Egypt on Wednesday to deliver aid to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. (SPA)
The 50th Saudi relief airplane, operated by KSrelief, arrived at Al-Arish in Egypt on Wednesday to deliver aid to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. (SPA)

The 50th Saudi relief airplane, operated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in coordination with the Ministry of Defense, arrived at Al-Arish in Egypt on Wednesday to deliver aid to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

The assistance is consistent with Saudi Arabia's humanitarian role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people during crises.


Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Issues Royal Orders

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. (SPA)
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. (SPA)
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Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Issues Royal Orders

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. (SPA)
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. (SPA)

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud issued on Wednesday several royal decrees related to the appointment of state officials.

Prince Dr. Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf Al Muqrin was appointed Special Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques with the rank of minister.

Abdulmohsen bin Abdulaziz Al-Tuwaijri, Vice Minister of the National Guard, was relieved of his post, while Prince Dr. Abdulaziz bin Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf Al Muqrin, Special Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, was named as his replacement.

Abdulmohsen bin Abdulaziz Al-Tuwaijri was named an Advisor at the Royal Court with the rank of minister.

Khaled bin Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Abdulkarim was appointed Secretary General of the Cabinet with the rank of minister.

Al-Shihana bint Saleh bin Abdullah Al-Azzaz, Deputy Secretary General of the Cabinet, was relieved of her post and named an Advisor at the Royal Court.

Mazen bin Turki bin Abdullah Al-Sudairy was named as an Advisor at the Secretariat General of the Cabinet with the rank of excellent.

Eng. Sami bin Abdullah Muqeem was appointed Vice President of the Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) with the rank of excellent and Al-Rebdi bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al-Rebdi was named head of the National Data Management Office with the rank of excellent.

Abdulmohsen bin Saad bin Abdulmohsen Al-Khalaf was named Vice Deputy Minister of Finance with the rank of excellent and Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Abdulaziz Al-Duhaim was named Assistant Minister of Commerce with the rank of excellent.

Dr. Abdullah bin Ali bin Mohammed Al-Ahmari was appointed Assistant Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Planning and Development with the rank of excellent.

Eng. Anas bin Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Sulaia was named Assistant Minister of Tourism with the rank of excellent.