Saudi Arabia Reiterates Need to End Humanitarian Catastrophe in Gaza

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz chairs the cabinet meeting in Riyadh. (SPA)
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz chairs the cabinet meeting in Riyadh. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Reiterates Need to End Humanitarian Catastrophe in Gaza

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz chairs the cabinet meeting in Riyadh. (SPA)
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz chairs the cabinet meeting in Riyadh. (SPA)

The Saudi government reiterated on Tuesday the need to end the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

The Kingdom had declared that position at the Munich Security Conference.

It had called for prioritizing the need to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the enclave. Efforts must be exerted to deliver more humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people, it added.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz chaired the cabinet meeting that was held in Riyadh.

The cabinet expressed immense pride in the Kingdom's remarkable three-century legacy on the eve of Founding Day, which is celebrated on February 22.

It highlighted the unity, security and stability enjoyed for generations, which led to constant progress and development. It commended the state's unwavering commitment and steadfastness, and acknowledged the march forward toward a brighter future for the country.

The cabinet was briefed on recent government activities, and highlighted the efforts exerted toward deepening ties with various countries, in pursuit of shared goals and stronger cooperation in diverse fields.

The cabinet praised the successful visit by Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to the Kingdom where he held talks with Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The cabinet stressed that the Kingdom's successful bid to host the 11th session of the World Water Forum in 2027 solidifies its leading role in addressing water issues both regionally and internationally. It reflects the nation's ongoing commitment to achieving sustainable development goals.

The cabinet lauded the outcomes of the World Smart Cities Forum (WSCF) that was held in Riyadh, highlighting the successful launches and signing of memoranda of understanding. The initiatives aim to boost sustainability and improve the quality of life in Saudi cities, aligning with the Kingdom's objective of having at least ten of its cities ranked among the top 50 globally.

The ministers reviewed on the inclusion of three new Saudi cities into the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, attaining the highest growth rate among major tourist destinations worldwide, and leading the Electronic Government Services Index in the Middle East and North Africa.

The achievements underscore the Kingdom's unwavering interest and support for all sectors, aspiring to establish the country as an exemplary model on multiple fronts.



Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)

The last group of pilgrims from this year’s Hajj season departed Saudi Arabia on Sunday aboard a Saudia flight from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah.

The flight carried 320 pilgrims to Kertajati, Indonesia, after they completed their Hajj rituals. Saudia, the Kingdom’s flag carrier, hosted a farewell ceremony, concluding its 74-day Hajj operations.

The first flight for this year’s Hajj season arrived in Madinah on May 9 from India with 283 pilgrims.

They were welcomed by the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah.

Saudi Arabia facilitated 7,700 flights through six airports and provided over 27,000 buses to ease pilgrim transportation. The Haramain High-Speed Railway operated more than 5,000 trips during the season.

Over 1.8 million pilgrims participated in the last Hajj season. Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel confirmed there were no health issues or outbreaks.

The organization of Hajj was praised by leaders of Arab and Islamic countries.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi commended the excellent organization and services provided to millions of pilgrims.

Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa praised the meticulous organization and services.

Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah appreciated the modern smart services and technologies.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed highlighted the success of Saudi Arabia’s Hajj management.