Saudi Arabia Likely to Re-impose COVID-19 Measures As Cases Surge

A Saudi woman waits to get a dose of a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine, in Riyadh (Reuters)
A Saudi woman waits to get a dose of a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine, in Riyadh (Reuters)
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Saudi Arabia Likely to Re-impose COVID-19 Measures As Cases Surge

A Saudi woman waits to get a dose of a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine, in Riyadh (Reuters)
A Saudi woman waits to get a dose of a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine, in Riyadh (Reuters)

Saudi Arabia reported a slight increase in COVID-19 cases after authorities lifted the precautionary measures and allowed businesses to resume activities.

The Kingdom reported 400 cases per day this week, recording a minor rise to those reported before the resumption of activities on March 7.

The number of active cases was less than 2,700, of which 500 were critical, but now there are more than 4,200 infections, with 600 in critical conditions.

Despite launching its largest vaccination campaign in 500 centers with over 3.5 million doses, Saudi Arabia could witness a re-imposition of precautions as cases continue to rise.

On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia recorded 466 new cases, bringing the total number of infections to 386,300.

In February, the Ministry of Interior announced a number of preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.

However, earlier this month, the Ministry did not extend COVID-19 precautionary measures, indicating that it will not extend the suspension of indoor dining at restaurants or entertainment activities.

It limited social gatherings to a maximum of 20 people, while large public gatherings, weddings, and events in banquet halls or hotels remained suspended.

The Ministry urged all citizens to adhere to the announced producers and preventive measures.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing announced that vaccinations will be mandatory for all barbershops, salons, restaurants, cafes, and food outlet workers in Saudi Arabia.

Workers will be required to be vaccinated to protect public health and curb the spread of the virus. Those who are not vaccinated before the deadline must provide a negative PCR test result every seven days at the expense of their employer.



Saudi Crown Prince, US National Security Adviser Discuss Strategic Agreements Between the 2 Countries

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. SPA
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. SPA
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Saudi Crown Prince, US National Security Adviser Discuss Strategic Agreements Between the 2 Countries

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. SPA
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. SPA

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan met to discuss Israel's war in Gaza and seek to complete a broad bilateral agreement, the Saudi state news agency reported on Sunday.

The meeting in the Saudi city of Dhahran included reviewing "the semi-final version of the draft strategic agreements between the two countries, which are almost being finalized," a statement read.
The Crown Prince and Sullivan also discussed the need to find a "credible track for bringing about the two-state solution" for Israel and the Palestinians, and to stop the war in Gaza and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid, the statement said.


Saudi Crown Prince Meets with UAE President in al-Khobar

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan meet at the al-Aziziya Palace in al-Khobar. (Bader Al Asaker on X)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan meet at the al-Aziziya Palace in al-Khobar. (Bader Al Asaker on X)
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Saudi Crown Prince Meets with UAE President in al-Khobar

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan meet at the al-Aziziya Palace in al-Khobar. (Bader Al Asaker on X)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan meet at the al-Aziziya Palace in al-Khobar. (Bader Al Asaker on X)

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received on Friday United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan in the Eastern Region.

Bader Al Asaker, head of the private office of the Crown Prince, posted on the X platform a photo of the two leaders at the al-Aziziya Palace in al-Khobar city.


Saudi King Salman Issues Royal Order Promoting 26 Judges at Board of Grievances

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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Saudi King Salman Issues Royal Order Promoting 26 Judges at Board of Grievances

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 Friday a royal order to promote 26 judges at the Board of Grievances.

President of the Board of Grievances and Administrative Judicial Council Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al-Yousef said the royal order underscores the keenness of the wise leadership on supporting the judiciary and developing its performance.


Saudi Crown Prince Receives Princes, Officials, Scholars, Citizens in Eastern Region

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, receives on Friday princes, officials, scholars and a group of citizens. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, receives on Friday princes, officials, scholars and a group of citizens. (SPA)
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Saudi Crown Prince Receives Princes, Officials, Scholars, Citizens in Eastern Region

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, receives on Friday princes, officials, scholars and a group of citizens. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, receives on Friday princes, officials, scholars and a group of citizens. (SPA)

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received on Friday princes, officials, scholars and a group of citizens who came to greet him.

The audience at the Gulf Palace in Dammam was attended by Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Region, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Energy, Prince Mishari bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Musaed, and a number of princes.


Arab Summit Calls for UN Forces to Protect Palestinians Ahead of Implementation of Two-State Solution

A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)
A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)
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Arab Summit Calls for UN Forces to Protect Palestinians Ahead of Implementation of Two-State Solution

A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)
A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)

Arab leaders called on Thursday for the deployment of United Nations peacekeepers in the Palestinian territories who can protect civilians ahead of the implementation of the two-state solution.

The leaders met at the 33rd ordinary session of the Arab League Council in Manama, under the presidency of Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, to address the war on Gaza.

In a closing statement, the leaders underscored the importance of the two-state solution and the need for setting a timeframe for the political process and negotiations. They called for taking clear measures to that end.

They also called for holding a UN-sponsored international conference focusing on resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict based on the two-state solution and that would end the Israeli occupation of all Arab lands and establish an independent Palestinian state according to international resolutions.

The sovereign and viable Palestinian state would live in security and peace side-by-side with Israel, it added.

The leaders tasked the foreign ministers of Arab countries to “act immediately to communicate with the counterparts around the world to urge them to swiftly recognize the State of Palestine.”

Consultations will be held with the FMs to discuss the details of their efforts.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, reiterated the Kingdom’s support for the establishment of an internationally recognized Palestinian state, demanding that the international community support ceasefire efforts in Gaza.

The Kingdom is committed to resolving conflicts through peaceful means, he stressed before the summit.

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi underscored Cairo’s firm stance in rejecting the forced displacement of the Palestinian people, adding that “those who believe that security and military solutions can achieve interests or achieve security are delusional.”

He added that the region was at a crossroads “that demands that all concerned parties choose between either peace, stability and hope, or chaos and destruction that the ongoing military escalation is leading us to.”

Moreover, he noted that “history will look on long at the war in Gaza to record a major tragedy that has been marked by killing, reprisals and a siege on an entire people, their starvation and terrorization.”

He also criticized the international community’s “regrettable inability” to take any action to address the crisis.


Saudi Crown Prince Meets with UN Sec-Gen, Arab Leaders on Sidelines of Bahrain Arab Summit

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA
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Saudi Crown Prince Meets with UN Sec-Gen, Arab Leaders on Sidelines of Bahrain Arab Summit

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud met on Thursday with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, on the sidelines of the 33rd Arab Summit in Manama.

During the meeting, they reviewed the latest developments, particularly in Gaza and its surroundings.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of State and Cabinet Member Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Minister of the National Guard Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, and Minister of State, Cabinet Member, and National Security Advisor Dr. Musaed Al-Aiban.

The Crown Prince also met with a number of Arab leaders, including King of Jordan, Syria's President, and Kuwait's Prime Minister.

During the separate meetings, the Crown Prince and Arab officials discussed the latest developments, particularly in Gaza and means to achieve peace and stability. They also discussed ways of bolstering relations between their countries and the Kingdom.


Bahraini King Stresses Importance of Establishing Just Peace in Middle East

King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA
King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA
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Bahraini King Stresses Importance of Establishing Just Peace in Middle East

King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA
King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA

Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa delivered a speech after assuming the presidency of the 33rd session of the Arab League from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Thursday, during which he called for the organization of an international conference for peace in the Middle East.

King Hamad emphasized the importance of establishing a final and just peace in the region, stating that humanity must triumph and prevail in the battle for peace.
He highlighted the increasing responsibility in protecting the joint Arab process due to the continuing risks surrounding Arab national security.

The King also stressed the need to open a new chapter of stability and development that brings the Arab world closer to its legitimate aspirations as a civilized force capable of understanding the era's requirements and keeping pace with its progress.
Regarding the Palestinian people, he expressed concern that they are still denied their legitimate rights to security, freedom, and self-determination.

According to SPA, he called for a joint and urgent Arab and international position to be formulated, adopting the path of dialogue and collective solidarity to halt the bloodshed of wars.
King Hamad emphasized that establishing an independent Palestinian state would benefit the entire Arab region and help overcome its crises. He stated that the approach to achieving this goal should be through advice and serious political dialogue.
He expressed hope that the consultations and decisions would contribute to re-establishing a prosperous present and a bright future that future generations deserve, and also expressed his aspirations that the summit would mark a historic turning point in the process of Arab construction.


Saudi Crown Prince: Kingdom Supports Establishment of Internationally Recognized Palestinian State

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit
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Saudi Crown Prince: Kingdom Supports Establishment of Internationally Recognized Palestinian State

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman called for the establishment of an internationally recognized Palestinian state. This came during his speech at the Arab League Summit in Manama on Thursday.

In his statement, the Crown Prince stressed that Saudi Arabia prioritized Arab issues and strengthened joint Arab action. It focused on formulating common positions on regional and international matters, particularly the Palestinian cause.  

The Crown Prince highlighted the fundraising campaign launched by the Kingdom which exceeded SAR700 million to support the Palestinians.

"The Kingdom also operated air and sea bridges to deliver aid directly to Gaza and pledged continued support to international organizations working to alleviate the tragic situation there."

He further emphasized the need for continued collaboration to confront the brutal aggression against Palestine, urging the international community to fulfil its responsibility by demanding an immediate cessation of aggression from the occupying forces and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid.

"We stress the importance of pursuing a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue based on UN legitimate resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, guaranteeing the Palestinian people's right to establish an independent state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital," SPA quoted the Crown Prince as saying.

Also, the Crown Prince said the Kingdom advocates peaceful conflict resolution, and emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining security in the Red Sea.

"Freedom of navigation in this vital waterway is an international imperative that serves the interests of the entire world. We call for the immediate cessation of any activity threatening maritime navigation's security and safety," the Crown Prince said.

In his closing statement, he affirmed that joint work can achieve sustainable development and prosperity, fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people across the Arab region. He also congratulated Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on assuming the presidency of the 33rd Arab Summit.


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.