Saudi Arabia Condemns Attacks on Sudanese IDP Camps

Saudi Arabia Condemns Attacks on Sudanese IDP Camps
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Saudi Arabia Condemns Attacks on Sudanese IDP Camps

Saudi Arabia Condemns Attacks on Sudanese IDP Camps

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation of the recent attacks on internally displaced persons (IDP) camps near El Fasher (Zamzam and Abu Shouk) in western Sudan, which resulted in deaths and injuries and constitute a clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law.
In a statement, the ministry reiterated the Kingdom's firm rejection of such violations and stressed the urgent need to protect relief and humanitarian personnel, SPA reported.

It underscored the importance of an immediate cessation of hostilities, the avoidance of targeting civilians, and the full implementation of the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan, signed on May 11, 2023.
The ministry conveyed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and extended its wishes for a swift recovery to those injured.



Saudi Council of Senior Scholars: Performing Hajj without a Permit Is a Sin

Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
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Saudi Council of Senior Scholars: Performing Hajj without a Permit Is a Sin

Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)
Pilgrims are seen at the Hajj last year. (EPA)

Saudi Arabia’s Council of Senior Scholars stressed on Sunday the need to obtain a permit for anyone wishing to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.

In a statement, it warned that performing the pilgrimage without the permit “is a sin” and would “lead to several dangers and impact the safety and health of pilgrims and the services provided.”

Meanwhile, the Holy Makkah Municipality said 22,000 of its members and members of other entities are dedicating their services and capabilities to implement this year’s Hajj season plan.

The municipality has provided 28 centers in the holy sites to offer the best services to the pilgrims.

In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, municipality spokesman Osama al-Zeitouni said it has backed up its efforts with several electronic platforms and apps that would help boost the efficiency of services and speed up procedures.

It has also dedicated a large fleet of equipment and human cadres and set up integrated plans and work programs that cover the entirety of the Hajj, he added.

The municipality's efforts include and are not limited to training members on crisis, disaster and crowd management. Dedicated teams will be in place to handle emergencies caused by rain or fires, as well as handling waste and garbage, providing protection against insects and regularly disinfecting camps.

The municipality has dedicated a team to monitor the markets, grocery stores and restaurants to ensure the safety of food provided.