Saudi Arabia, Egypt Stress Need for Immediate Ceasefire in Lebanon, Gaza

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abduallah and his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty meet in Riyadh in August. (SPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abduallah and his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty meet in Riyadh in August. (SPA)
TT

Saudi Arabia, Egypt Stress Need for Immediate Ceasefire in Lebanon, Gaza

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abduallah and his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty meet in Riyadh in August. (SPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abduallah and his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty meet in Riyadh in August. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia and Egypt stressed on Friday the need for an “immediate and permanent ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza.”

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abduallah held telephone talks with his Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty to discuss the situation in Lebanon and the Israeli escalation in the region, given the ongoing coordination and cooperation between Riyadh and Cairo.

An Egyptian foreign ministry spokesman said the FMs condemned the Israeli assault on Lebanon that has left hundreds dead and wounded.

He stressed Saudi Arabia and Egypt’s “full solidarity with Lebanon and its brotherly people during this crisis.”

They underlined the importance of offering all forms of humanitarian assistance to the people and enabling the state and all of its institutions to perform their duties and impose its sovereignty throughout the country.

The FMs expressed their categorical rejection of any measures that may impact Lebanon’s sovereignty across its territories.

Moreover, they warned that the prolongation of the escalation may have consequences on the people of the region.

Prince Faisal and Abdelatty called for the full implementation of United Nations Security Council resolution 1701 by all concerned parties.

Furthermore, the FMs called on the international community, especially the Security Council, to assume its responsibilities in reaching an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza.

Saudi Arabia and Egypt will continue to coordinate to address the dangers in the Arab region caused by the Israeli assault against the Lebanese and Palestinian people.



Saudi Flag: A Symbol of Unity from Imam Muhammad bin Saud to King Salman

King Salman kissing the Saudi Flag (SPA)
King Salman kissing the Saudi Flag (SPA)
TT

Saudi Flag: A Symbol of Unity from Imam Muhammad bin Saud to King Salman

King Salman kissing the Saudi Flag (SPA)
King Salman kissing the Saudi Flag (SPA)

The Saudi flag has been present at various events for over three centuries, with historical sources noting that the banner and standard used at the time were green, crafted from luxurious silk and brocade with brightly colored threads.

Saudi rulers carried the flag in military campaigns, victory celebrations, and national festivities, symbolizing strength, unity, and sovereignty.

This legacy was reaffirmed by a royal decree issued by King Salman bin Abdulaziz on March 1, 2023, establishing National Flag Day.

The decree emphasized that the national flag, dating back to the founding of the Saudi state in 1727, embodies the nation's core values.

The Islamic creed inscribed on the flag represents Saudi Arabia’s foundation on peace and faith, while the sword symbolizes strength, dignity, and wisdom.

For nearly three centuries, the flag has stood as a witness to the Kingdom's unification efforts, held high as a symbol of pride and resilience.

Recognizing its deep significance as a mark of sovereignty and national cohesion, the decree designated March 11 as National Flag Day, commemorating the date in 1937 when King Abdulaziz—founder of modern Saudi Arabia—approved the flag’s current design, reflecting unity, justice, strength, and prosperity.

The designation of an annual National Flag Day has rekindled memories of the Saudi flag’s deep ties to national events during the Third Saudi State and the commitment of its monarchs to preserving this unifying symbol of identity.

This tradition dates back to March 1937, when King Abdulaziz approved a Shura Council decision formalizing the flag’s dimensions and design.

For decades, Saudi schools have observed the flag salute as part of the morning assembly. Students who attended school during the reigns of King Saud and King Faisal recall the Flag Anthem, a daily ritual performed at the start of the school day.

With a firm salute and a loud voice, the student would proclaim: “Long live the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia! Long live His Majesty the King!”—a chant echoed by the entire school in unison.

Beyond its presence at national events and celebrations, the Saudi flag has also been immortalized in patriotic songs. It was first mentioned in the country’s national anthem 41 years ago, when the lyrics of the current anthem were officially adopted.

Penned by the late Saudi poet, Ibrahim Khafaji, the anthem—now sung at all national occasions—features references to the flag, describing it as “the fluttering green standard” that carries “light inscribed” within it.