Saudi Defense Ministry Signs Memoranda with 10 Universities to Build Capabilities, Exchange Expertise

The Saudi Ministry of Defense has signed cooperation memoranda with 10 universities. (SPA)
The Saudi Ministry of Defense has signed cooperation memoranda with 10 universities. (SPA)
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Saudi Defense Ministry Signs Memoranda with 10 Universities to Build Capabilities, Exchange Expertise

The Saudi Ministry of Defense has signed cooperation memoranda with 10 universities. (SPA)
The Saudi Ministry of Defense has signed cooperation memoranda with 10 universities. (SPA)

The Saudi Ministry of Defense has signed cooperation memoranda with 10 universities to develop human capital through capacity building, knowledge exchange, and the adoption of best practices in education, training, research, and healthcare.

Assistant Minister of Defense for Executive Affairs Khaled Biyari attended the signing ceremony, the Saudi Press agency reported on Monday.

Deputy Minister for Excellence Services at the Ministry of Defense Mohammed Moammar signed the memoranda with the presidents of Umm Al-Qura University, Islamic University of Madinah, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Taibah University, Jouf University, University of Hail, Al Baha University, Northern Border University, University of Bisha, and the Arab Open University.

The agreements cover university students' participation in the ministry’s recruitment programs, enable graduates of military colleges and institutes to join university bridging programs, and enhance cooperation on domestic scholarship opportunities for ministry personnel.



US Central Command Hosts Regional Security Dialogue in Bahrain

Participants pose for a family photo at the Bahrain conference. (CENTCOM)
Participants pose for a family photo at the Bahrain conference. (CENTCOM)
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US Central Command Hosts Regional Security Dialogue in Bahrain

Participants pose for a family photo at the Bahrain conference. (CENTCOM)
Participants pose for a family photo at the Bahrain conference. (CENTCOM)

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it led a regional security dialogue hosted by the Bahrain Defense Force on Wednesday to discuss the regional security environment and ways to strengthen defense cooperation across the Middle East.

The Strategic Allied Military Dialogue brought together senior defense officials from 12 countries, who reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz.

The meeting was attended by CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Coope and senior military officials from Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

According to CENTCOM, Cooper said the United States “continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with our regional partners,” adding that the discussions underscored a shared commitment to regional security and stability.

The United States and regional partners operate the world’s most sophisticated and largest active air and missile defense umbrella across the Middle East. In January, CENTCOM and regional countries established a new Middle Eastern Air Defense coordination cell for sharing information and threat warnings as well as responding to contingencies.

Officials are seen at the conference in Bahrain. (BNA)

The security dialogue marked the first time military leaders from Syria and Lebanon participated in a regional defense conference led by the United States.

Speaking at the event, Bahraini Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Theyab bin Saqr Al Nuaimi said the region is experiencing rapid developments and profound geopolitical shifts following Iran’s “treacherous and criminal attacks” targeting national security, sovereignty, and civilian infrastructure.

Al Nuaimi said the region’s exceptional geopolitical and economic importance requires a clear understanding of current and future challenges and the development of comprehensive strategic solutions based on collective resolve.

Closer cooperation, greater cohesion, and stronger unity are essential to confronting regional threats with determination, he stressed.


Bahrain's King Discusses Regional Security with CENTCOM Commander

Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa held talks with US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper.
Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa held talks with US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper.
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Bahrain's King Discusses Regional Security with CENTCOM Commander

Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa held talks with US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper.
Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa held talks with US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper.

Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa discussed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen cooperation, particularly in defense and military fields, during a meeting with US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper.

The two sides underscored the importance of continued coordination and cooperation between the two countries to support regional and international security and stability.

The talks also covered regional and international developments, including the latest developments in the region, efforts to enhance security and stability, the Iranian attacks targeting the region, and other issues of mutual interest.

King Hamad praised the close ties and ongoing coordination between Bahrain and the United States, highlighting progress in bilateral cooperation, particularly in defense and military coordination.

He also commended the United States' pivotal role in safeguarding regional security and stability and promoting international peace.


GCC Secretary General Condemns Terrorist Bombing at Damascus Café

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA
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GCC Secretary General Condemns Terrorist Bombing at Damascus Café

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi. SPA

GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi strongly condemned the terrorist bombing that targeted a café in Damascus, Syria, killing and injuring a number of innocent civilians.

He reaffirmed the GCC's full solidarity with Syria in safeguarding its security and stability, reiterating the bloc's firm rejection of terrorism and all acts of violence aimed at undermining peace and security.

Albudaiwi also extended his condolences to the families of the victims and wished those injured a speedy recovery.