Qatar Population Surges 13.2% in Year Leading Up to World Cup

A file photo taken on October 1, 2022 shows a general view the Qatari coastal city of Lusail, ahead of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup. (AFP)
A file photo taken on October 1, 2022 shows a general view the Qatari coastal city of Lusail, ahead of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup. (AFP)
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Qatar Population Surges 13.2% in Year Leading Up to World Cup

A file photo taken on October 1, 2022 shows a general view the Qatari coastal city of Lusail, ahead of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup. (AFP)
A file photo taken on October 1, 2022 shows a general view the Qatari coastal city of Lusail, ahead of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup. (AFP)

Qatar's population has surged by 13.2% over the last year, official data showed, as the Gulf Arab state recruits thousands of overseas workers ahead of hosting the football World Cup next month to cope with an unprecedented influx of fans.

The wealthy gas producer's population stood at 2.94 million after some 370,000 additional people moved to Qatar over the last year, based on data collected in September and released by Qatar's statistics authority last week.

Low-income migrant workers and other foreigners make up the majority of the country's population while Qatari nationals number around 380,000.

World Cup organizers face a personnel shortage as Qatar prepares to receive an estimated 1.2 million visitors during football’s largest event, which is expected to put pressure on its infrastructure, hospitality and security sector.

Hotel operator Accor is recruiting 12,000 temporary overseas employees to operate 65,000 rooms in apartments and homes serving as temporary fan housing. Qatar has an agreement with Türkiye to provide more than 3,000 riot police and Pakistan has also agreed to deploy troops to Qatar during the tournament.

Qatar has built expressways, seven football stadiums, hotels and skyscrapers, spending at least $229 billion on infrastructure, according to budget documents. Around half of Qatar's population is employed in the construction industry.

In the years after the tournament, Qatar's population is expected to decline by about 1.2% year-on-year and shrink to 2.5 million by 2027, the International Monetary Fund forecasts.



Saudi Leadership Congratulates King of Jordan on Anniversary of Accession to Throne

31 May 2023, Jordan, Amman: Jordan's King Abdullah II attends a ceremony in Amman to celebrate Crown Prince Al Hussein and Rajwa's imminent wedding. (Royal Hashemite Court/dpa)
31 May 2023, Jordan, Amman: Jordan's King Abdullah II attends a ceremony in Amman to celebrate Crown Prince Al Hussein and Rajwa's imminent wedding. (Royal Hashemite Court/dpa)
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Saudi Leadership Congratulates King of Jordan on Anniversary of Accession to Throne

31 May 2023, Jordan, Amman: Jordan's King Abdullah II attends a ceremony in Amman to celebrate Crown Prince Al Hussein and Rajwa's imminent wedding. (Royal Hashemite Court/dpa)
31 May 2023, Jordan, Amman: Jordan's King Abdullah II attends a ceremony in Amman to celebrate Crown Prince Al Hussein and Rajwa's imminent wedding. (Royal Hashemite Court/dpa)

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz sent on Friday a cable of congratulations to King Abdullah II of Jordan on the occasion of anniversary of his accession to the throne.

King Salman wished King Abdullah continuous health and happiness and the government and people of the brotherly Jordan steady progress and prosperity.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent a similar cable to King Abdullah.


Gulf-US Consensus on Combating Terrorism, Extremism

Foreign Ministers of GCC Countries and the US Secretary of State Meet in Riyadh (GCC)
Foreign Ministers of GCC Countries and the US Secretary of State Meet in Riyadh (GCC)
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Gulf-US Consensus on Combating Terrorism, Extremism

Foreign Ministers of GCC Countries and the US Secretary of State Meet in Riyadh (GCC)
Foreign Ministers of GCC Countries and the US Secretary of State Meet in Riyadh (GCC)

A recent joint Gulf-US statement underscored the global significance of combating terrorism and violent extremism, emphasizing the protection of navigation rights and freedoms and the need to address threats posed to ships.

Notably, the statement welcomed the resumption of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

During a meeting at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) headquarters, attended by foreign ministers from GCC member states, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and GCC Secretary General Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, the significance of the longstanding relations between the US and Arab Gulf countries was highlighted.

They reiterated their joint dedication to further advance cooperation, coordination, and consultation, building upon the accomplishments of prior ministerial meetings and the “Jeddah Summit” held on July 16, 2022.

Moreover, the focus was on strengthening ambitious strategic partnerships between the US and GCC member states. The objective is to enhance peace, security, stability, integration, and economic prosperity in the Middle East.

 

De-Escalation, Support for Diplomacy

The two sides also emphasized the importance of joint efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region, reaffirming their shared commitment to supporting diplomacy in achieving these goals. They further agreed on the significance of infrastructure projects in enhancing integration and connectivity in the region, contributing to regional stability and prosperity.

The importance of supporting navigation rights and freedoms and collective efforts to counter threats targeting the security of ships in the waterways of the region was also stressed.

The officials also emphasized the significance of confronting terrorism and violent extremism worldwide and welcomed the ministerial meeting of the International Coalition to defeat ISIS, which took place in Riyadh on Thursday.

 

US Commitment to Regional Security

Blinken affirmed the US steadfast commitment to the region’s security, recognizing its vital role in the global economy and international trade.

 

Iran

GCC countries and the US reaffirmed their commitment to freedom of navigation and maritime security in the region. They expressed their determination to confront any aggressive or unlawful acts at sea or elsewhere that could threaten international trade, maritime passages, and oil facilities in GCC countries.

The two sides also reiterated their support for the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and renewed their call for Iran to fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The officials also welcomed the decision of Saudi Arabia and Iran to resume diplomatic relations, emphasizing the importance of regional states’ commitment to international law, including the UN Charter.

Regarding Yemen, both sides reiterated the significance of the ongoing peace efforts led by the UN following the April 2022 ceasefire and the subsequent calm.

They expressed deep appreciation for the efforts undertaken by Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UN Special Envoy, and the US Special Envoy in this regard.

GCC countries and the US expressed their hope to witness a comprehensive intra-Yemeni political process that leads to a lasting resolution of the conflict, addressing the Yemeni people's calls for justice, accountability, and the prosecution of human rights violations. This process should aim to put the country on the path to recovery.

 

Yemen’s Sovereignty

Support for Yemen's sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity was reaffirmed.

The officials also expressed their support for the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) in Yemen and urged the Houthi group to seize this opportunity and make use of the past 14 months, which have been marked by relative calm and stability, to provide relief to millions of Yemenis.

They emphasized the importance of continuing to meet the humanitarian needs of the people in all regions of Yemen and providing economic and developmental support throughout the country.

Officials also affirmed support for UN-led efforts to address the environmental and economic threat posed by the derelict oil tanker Safer off the coast of Yemen.

 

Two-State Solution

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the Middle East based on a two-state solution, in accordance with the 1967 borders and any mutually agreed land swaps, in line with internationally recognized criteria and the Arab Peace Initiative.

They also stressed the necessity of refraining from any unilateral measures that undermine the two-state solution, escalate tensions, and maintaining the historical status quo in the holy sites of Jerusalem, emphasizing the special role of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in this regard.

 

A Political Solution for Syria’s Crisis

As for Syria, both sides reiterated their commitment to reaching a political solution to the Syrian crisis that preserves the country’s unity and sovereignty, meets the aspirations of its people, and complies with international humanitarian law, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254 (2015).

In this regard, the officials welcomed Arab efforts to resolve the crisis in a step-by-step manner, in line with Security Council Resolution 2254, as agreed upon during the Amman Consultative Meeting of the Arab Ministerial Contact Group on Syria on May 1.

Furthermore, they reiterated support for US and International Coalition forces working to defeat ISIS in Syria, condemning all acts that threaten the safety and security of these forces.

 

Iraq

Additionally, the officials praised the positive and growing partnership between the GCC and Iraq, welcoming the ongoing progress in the electricity connection project that links Iraq to the GCC’s power grid.

This project represents years of diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving greater regional integration and connectivity, in the best interest of the Iraqi people and the region.

 

Sudan Crisis

Regarding the war in Sudan, GCC countries and the US expressed grave concern over the recent outbreak of fighting in Sudan.

They reaffirmed the GCC’s support for diplomatic efforts led by Saudi Arabia and the US in Jeddah to reach an agreement between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces for the full implementation of a short-term ceasefire agreement and the unhindered access of humanitarian aid.

 

Ukraine War

Considering the war in Ukraine, the officials reiterated the importance of respecting the principles of sovereignty and international law, including the UN Charter, and the commitment to refrain from the use or threat of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

They urged all countries and the international community to intensify their efforts to reach a peaceful solution, end the humanitarian crisis, and support refugees, internally displaced persons, and other affected individuals from the war in Ukraine.

They also emphasized the importance of facilitating the export of grains and other food supplies, as well as supporting food security in the affected countries.

 

The strategic partnership between the GCC, US

Officials also affirmed their joint determination to contribute to achieving regional security and stability within the framework of the strategic partnership between the GCC and the US.

They commended the outcomes of the joint working group meetings on integrated air and missile defense, maritime security, and Iran, which took place in Riyadh from February 13 to 15.

 

They also praised the discussions of the fourth trade and investment dialogue meeting held on March 9 in Riyadh.


Saudi FM Says Riyadh Does Not Respond to Pressure on Human Rights

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a joint news conference with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah at the Intercontinental Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, June 8, 2023. (Reuters)
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a joint news conference with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah at the Intercontinental Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, June 8, 2023. (Reuters)
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Saudi FM Says Riyadh Does Not Respond to Pressure on Human Rights

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a joint news conference with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah at the Intercontinental Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, June 8, 2023. (Reuters)
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a joint news conference with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah at the Intercontinental Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, June 8, 2023. (Reuters)

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah stressed on Thursday that his country does not respond to pressure related to human rights.

He acknowledged differences between Riyadh and Washington, “but we are working on reaching a mechanism that would allow us to work together,” he said during a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the conclusion of a ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS in Riyadh.

“The partnership with Washington is still strong and there is great room to develop it,” continued Prince Faisal, adding that Saudi Arabia is continuing to develop its security and military ties with the US.

Moreover, he remarked: “It’s no secret that we are developing our domestic civilian nuclear program and we would very much prefer to be able to have the US as one of the bidders.”

He also stressed that China is an important partner to Saudi Arabia and the countries of the region.

On Israel, he said normalization with it would have “limited benefits” without “finding a pathway to peace for the Palestinian people.”

Turning to regional developments, Prince Faisal underlined that Saudi Arabia would continue to pursue efforts to ease the suffering of the Sudanese people.

The warring parties in Sudan must assume their responsibilities and avoid causing more destruction in the country, he urged, noting that their commitment to a ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope to the people.

On Syria, the FM revealed that the Damascus government has made “clear pledges” to address the fears of the international community, adding that dialogue with it will help resolve humanitarian problems there.

On the fight against terrorism Prince Faisal underscored the importance of confrontining terrorist groups in Afghanistan so that the country doesn’t become a safe haven for them.

The international community must assume its roles in facing joint challenges, most notably terrorism, He stressed the importance of judicial reforms and bringing the terrorists to justice to ensure the safe return of Syrian and Iraqi refugees to their homes.

For his part, Blinken said the US is committed to bolstering and maintaining the partnership in the region, expressing his gratitude to the Saudi contributions in the anti-ISIS coalition.

He also hailed the massive historic efforts it is making to modernize its economy.

Washington is working closely with Saudi Arabia to reach a lasting ceasefire and launch a comprehensive political process in Yemen.

They are also working with regional countries to confront Iran’s destabilizing behavior, he added, while stressing that ties with Gulf countries are important to the US.

Commenting on Sudan, he said Saudi Arabia is using diplomacy to reach a ceasefire and deliver humanitarian aid.

On Syria, he reiterated Washington's opposition to the reinstatement of its membership in the Arab League, adding however, that it is in agreement with its partners on issues that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad must commit to.


Saudi Crown Prince, Indian PM Discuss Issues of Common Interest

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
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Saudi Crown Prince, Indian PM Discuss Issues of Common Interest

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, held telephone talks on Thursday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

They discussed several issues of common interest.

They also tackled the unique bilateral relations between their countries as part of their strategic partnership, as well as cooperation in various fields and ways to develop and bolster it.


GCC Secretary-General Stresses Importance of Consolidating Ties with UK

A general view of Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia, February 20, 2022. REUTERS/Mohammed Benmansour
A general view of Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia, February 20, 2022. REUTERS/Mohammed Benmansour
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GCC Secretary-General Stresses Importance of Consolidating Ties with UK

A general view of Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia, February 20, 2022. REUTERS/Mohammed Benmansour
A general view of Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia, February 20, 2022. REUTERS/Mohammed Benmansour

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi has stressed the significance of consolidating friendly relations between the GCC and the United Kingdom in a way that contributes to serving shared interests.

Albudaiwi made the remarks on Thursday during his meeting with the Minister of State for the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and the United Nations at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Lord Tariq Ahmed in Riyadh.

The two sides discussed ways to enhance the historical friendship and cooperation relations between the GCC and the UK in various fields, especially addressing the existing security challenges to achieve regional security and stability.

Albudaiwi stressed that the GCC countries are looking forward to the fourth round of negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement to be held in London in July.

He expressed hope that the results of the talks will lead to a Free Trade Agreement between the GCC countries and the UK.


Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with French Counterpart

Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his French counterpart reviewed the strong relations between the two countries. SPA
Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his French counterpart reviewed the strong relations between the two countries. SPA
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Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with French Counterpart

Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his French counterpart reviewed the strong relations between the two countries. SPA
Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his French counterpart reviewed the strong relations between the two countries. SPA

Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met on Thursday with his French counterpart, Catherine Colonna, on the sidelines of the ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition against ISIS in Riyadh.

They reviewed the strong relations between the two countries and ways to enhance them in various fields. The two ministers also discussed the latest developments in the world and addressed the most prominent topics at the ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition against ISIS.

Saudi Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Political Affairs Ambassador Dr. Saud Al-Sati attended the meeting.


Saudi Arabia Says Will Make Every Effort to Pursue ISIS Wherever it is

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Thursday, June 8. Reuters
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Thursday, June 8. Reuters
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Saudi Arabia Says Will Make Every Effort to Pursue ISIS Wherever it is

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Thursday, June 8. Reuters
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Thursday, June 8. Reuters

Saudi Arabia will continue to work to prevent the resurgence of ISIS, Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said in a speech at the ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS on Thursday.

The Kingdom believes in the need to confront terrorism and extremist ideology, he said at the meeting attended by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Saudi Arabia will make every effort to pursue ISIS wherever it is, said the minister.

He added that it was necessary to dry up the sources of the organization’s funding.

He also urged countries around the world to work together to spread the values of tolerance and dialogue.


Saudi, Somali Defense Ministers Discuss Enhancing Cooperation

The Saudi Minister of Defense has met in Jeddah with his Somali counterpart. SPA
The Saudi Minister of Defense has met in Jeddah with his Somali counterpart. SPA
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Saudi, Somali Defense Ministers Discuss Enhancing Cooperation

The Saudi Minister of Defense has met in Jeddah with his Somali counterpart. SPA
The Saudi Minister of Defense has met in Jeddah with his Somali counterpart. SPA

Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz has met in Jeddah with his Somali counterpart, Abdikadir Mohamed Nur.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the relations between the two countries. They also discussed enhancing cooperation and coordination in the defense and military fields and issues of common concern.

Senior Saudi and Somali officials attended the meeting.


Saudi King Issues Decree to Establish Global CyberSecurity Forum Institute

Part of a traveling exhibition to raise awareness on the importance of cybersecurity in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Part of a traveling exhibition to raise awareness on the importance of cybersecurity in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi King Issues Decree to Establish Global CyberSecurity Forum Institute

Part of a traveling exhibition to raise awareness on the importance of cybersecurity in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Part of a traveling exhibition to raise awareness on the importance of cybersecurity in Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz has issued a royal decree to establish a Global CyberSecurity Forum (GCF) Institute.

The Institute is non-profit and enjoys financial and administrative independence. It has the total capacity to achieve its goals and manage its affairs under the supervision of its own Board of Trustees.

The establishment of the GCF Institute aims to strengthen cybersecurity at the global level, as well as to enhance global cooperation, economic and social development in this field, and to support international efforts related to cybersecurity.

The launch affirms the Kingdom's global leadership in this field, supporting international efforts and unifying everyday endeavors.

It also opens broad horizons for transferring knowledge, exchanging experiences, and exploring opportunities for cooperation in the cybersecurity sector.

Saudi Arabia became a successful and pioneering model recognized internationally in the field after making progress in cybersecurity locally, regionally, and globally.

- Boosting cyber systems and the knowledge economy

Shura Council member Fadel al-Buainain lauded the royal decree to establish the Forum, reinforcing the cyber system and the knowledge economy.

Buainain told Asharq Al-Awsat that the new decree didn't come as surprise as the Kingdom is witnessing an unprecedented digital transformation, and aims to fully automate its activities by 2030 and transform into a digital government.

Saudi Arabia topped the global cybersecurity index in the Middle East and Asia and came second, according to the UN.

He believes the new Institution will help create protection against digital attacks targeting the systems and networks, especially the financial sectors that cannot function without it.

The Council member believes that this will place the Kingdom among the pioneers in cybersecurity and launch global initiatives, aiming to support development in the international community, unify efforts, and direct them to serve the whole world.

He expected the Forum to contribute to unifying efforts, exchanging experiences, and opening broad horizons for transferring knowledge and exploring cooperation opportunities. It would be reflected in the development of the cybersecurity system and raise its efficiency, achieving complete protection.

- Protecting domestic and international interests

The Councilmember explained that digital transformation and the information and communication revolution that the world is witnessing are the engines of modern economic development and are as equally important as the industrial revolution and transformation.

He pointed out that digital transformation is connected to all economic, service, and social sectors, while the digital economy has become a basis for modern development.

Buainain described King Salman's decree to establish the Institution as globally significant, contributing to strengthening cyber security at the local and international levels and achieving global cooperation and economic and social development.

- Boosting the security defense mechanism

Saudi businessman and Chairman of Excellence Abdallah al-Meleihi said the new Institution would boost the defense mechanisms in the technology sector and enhance their cyber security.

Meleihi noted that the Kingdom was one of the first countries to realize the dangers of security breaches in information systems.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Meleihi said that Saudi Arabia established a strong base in cybersecurity, a promising and developing field.

Countries that invest and develop this sector will create a safe environment for new industries and the technology sector, said Meleihi, adding that it would stimulate qualitative investment in the field.

Cybersecurity is one of the most important goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, and its market would reach $5.6 billion, said Meleihi.

- Creating global partnerships

Head of the al-Shorouk Center for Economic Studies in Jazan, Abdul Rahman Baashen, reiterated that establishing the Institution will reinforce the general Saudi trend.

In addition to its interest in cybersecurity, the Kingdom is becoming a global destination for qualitative investments and modern industries, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and carbon neutrality.

Baashen expected the new institution to boost international cooperation and create global partnerships for a healthy environment, noting that it would also deepen innovative ideas and solutions to various issues.


Kuwait Election Results: Opposition, Islamists Prevail Once Again

Kuwaiti National Assembly elections witnessed a 24% change (KUNA)
Kuwaiti National Assembly elections witnessed a 24% change (KUNA)
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Kuwait Election Results: Opposition, Islamists Prevail Once Again

Kuwaiti National Assembly elections witnessed a 24% change (KUNA)
Kuwaiti National Assembly elections witnessed a 24% change (KUNA)

Recent Kuwaiti National Assembly elections have revealed a notable transformation emerging within the parliamentary makeup.

Election results, announced on June 7, indicate a relative progression of opposition factions and a notable representation of the youth.

However, a disheartening setback is evident for women, as their parliamentary representation has dwindled to a mere single seat.

As of this report’s writing, the official voter turnout percentage for these elections has not been officially announced. However, observers have estimated it to be between 50% and 56% based on reports from delegates in the constituencies.

The opposition has once again repositioned itself within the newly elected National Assembly, as its affiliated members, representing multiple blocs, have secured 29 out of 50 seats. This number is lower than the previous Assembly, where the opposition held onto 38 seats.

Moreover, the rate of change in the 2023 parliament compared to the 2022 Assembly - which was invalidated by the Constitutional Court - stands at approximately 24 %.

Ten new deputies, mostly young individuals, have seized their first opportunity to enter the parliamentary sphere.

Additionally, 25 former deputies have returned to the Assembly, while 12 newly elected deputies from the nullified 2022 Assembly have retained their seats.

One of the most significant surprises of these elections was the resurgence of the opposition, reclaiming its position in the parliamentary landscape, accompanied by the rise of young representatives in the new Assembly.

With the youth achieving prominent positions in terms of votes within their respective constituencies, the elections witnessed a significant decline in the popularity of prominent deputies, some of whom garnered less than half of the votes they received in the previous term.

In the electoral process conducted under a single voting system, the eligible voters, numbering 793,646 individuals, have chosen 50 deputies out of a pool of 207 candidates, including 15 women.

The religious currents of the Salafists and the Muslim Brotherhood have maintained their position within the parliament, while the populist, liberal, and Shiite Islamist forces have experienced a decline.

It is nearly certain that the seasoned parliamentarian Ahmed Al-Sadoun will become the Assembly’s speaker, as the former speaker has suffered losses among many of his allies.

Deputy Saud Al-Asfour, who received the highest number of votes nationwide, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the upcoming Assembly will be more challenging for Prime Minister Ahmed Al-Nawaf than the nullified 2022 Assembly, due to the “different nature of the elected deputies.”

“The previous council was entirely aligned with Sheikh Al-Nawaf, whereas the upcoming council is expected to include some elements believed to be in disagreement with him,” Al-Asfour explained.

Al-Asfour believes that the premier bears a significant responsibility, which is “to form a strong government that is able to deal with the Assembly by establishing a cohesive team with a clear and capable plan and vision, capable of achieving some popular achievements that resonate with the people.”

Likewise, Al-Asfour contends that the members of the 2023 Assembly hold a substantial obligation to prevent the recurrence of past errors made by the legislative body in 2022. These errors primarily revolved around the absence of prioritization and the lack of coordination among the members.