Gaza Conflict Dominates Kuwait National Assembly as it Opens New Term

The Kuwaiti National Assembly meets on Tuesday. (KUNA)
The Kuwaiti National Assembly meets on Tuesday. (KUNA)
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Gaza Conflict Dominates Kuwait National Assembly as it Opens New Term

The Kuwaiti National Assembly meets on Tuesday. (KUNA)
The Kuwaiti National Assembly meets on Tuesday. (KUNA)

The tragic events unfolding in the Palestinian territories dominated on Tuesday the opening of the new legislative term of the Kuwaiti National Assembly.

Crown Prince Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah reaffirmed Kuwait’s unwavering stance regarding the Palestinian cause and called for an immediate ceasefire and the passage of humanitarian and relief aid.

In a speech at the opening of the second session of the 17th legislative term of the National Assembly, he emphasized that Kuwait supports all efforts aimed at resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in a just and comprehensive manner consistent with international legitimacy.

“The leadership, people, National Assembly and government of the State of Kuwait are closely following the bloody events taking place in the Palestinian territories, especially the Gaza Strip, denouncing the attacks of the brutal Israeli aggression,” said Crown Prince Mishal.

“We affirm Kuwait’s firm position towards the Palestinian issue and demand a ceasefire and allowing the entry of humanitarian and relief aid,” he added.

National Assembly Speaker Ahmed Al-Saadoun emphasized that Israel was openly driving the displacement and relocation of Gaza residents.

Al-Saadoun accused Israel of doing this through practices amounting to crimes of genocide.

Speaking at the session, Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah said: “We are closely monitoring the severe attacks on the Palestinian people and call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the region. We also urge the swift delivery of humanitarian aid to our Palestinian brothers and sisters.”

He expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in Gaza resulting from relentless aggression against civilians.

He noted the silence of the international community, especially the UN Security Council, accusing it of double standards.

He emphasized the crucial role of the international community in ensuring an immediate ceasefire and that civilians are protected.



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.