Royal Saudi Naval Forces Join Hajj Security Efforts

The forces are tasked with inspecting suspicious packages at seaports, detecting and identifying explosives utilizing advanced technologies and specialized expertise in maritime security. - SPA
The forces are tasked with inspecting suspicious packages at seaports, detecting and identifying explosives utilizing advanced technologies and specialized expertise in maritime security. - SPA
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Royal Saudi Naval Forces Join Hajj Security Efforts

The forces are tasked with inspecting suspicious packages at seaports, detecting and identifying explosives utilizing advanced technologies and specialized expertise in maritime security. - SPA
The forces are tasked with inspecting suspicious packages at seaports, detecting and identifying explosives utilizing advanced technologies and specialized expertise in maritime security. - SPA

The Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) are participating in the Hajj season 1446 AH as part of the Ministry of Defense's comprehensive security plan.

Their role includes providing support to government agencies operating at seaports, enhancing efforts to secure the entry of pilgrims and ensure safety, SPA reported.

The forces are tasked with inspecting suspicious packages at seaports, detecting and identifying explosives utilizing advanced technologies and specialized expertise in maritime security.

Additionally, a team of specialized divers from the RSNF will assist Civil Defense teams in search and rescue operations during flash floods or heavy rainfall at the holy sites.

Represented by the Western Fleet, the RSNF will support internal security forces at the holy sites with infantry units, special forces, drone aviation, naval military police units, and other specialized personnel for various auxiliary tasks.



Zelenskyy Arrives in Jeddah

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv (AFP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv (AFP)
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Zelenskyy Arrives in Jeddah

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv (AFP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv (AFP)

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine arrived in Jeddah Thursday. At King Abdulaziz International Airport, he was welcomed by Deputy Governor of Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz and several other officials.

Zelenskiy said he would hold "important meetings" in the Kingdom as part of an effort to bolster ties with Middle East countries amid the Iran war.

"Arrived in Saudi Arabia. Important meetings are scheduled. We appreciate ⁠the support and support ‌those who ‌are ready to work ​with us ‌to ensure security," Zelenskyy wrote ‌on X.

Rustem Umerov, the head of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, accompanied Zelenskiy on the ‌visit.


Saudi FM Discusses Regional Developments with His Canadian, French Counterparts

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi FM Discusses Regional Developments with His Canadian, French Counterparts

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met on Thursday with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Noël Barrot on the sidelines of his participation in the Group of Seven (G7) ministerial meeting held France.

During the meeting, they reviewed relations between the two countries, along with ways to strengthen and develop them.

They also discussed the latest developments in the region and ongoing efforts in this regard.

According to SPA, the Saudi minister also met with Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand.

During their meeting they reviewed cooperation between the two countries in various fields, in addition to discussing the latest developments and issues of common interest.


2 Dead, 3 Wounded as Missile Intercepted in Abu Dhabi

People walk along the corniche area in Abu Dhabi on March 20, 2026. (Photo by Ryan Lim / AFP)
People walk along the corniche area in Abu Dhabi on March 20, 2026. (Photo by Ryan Lim / AFP)
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2 Dead, 3 Wounded as Missile Intercepted in Abu Dhabi

People walk along the corniche area in Abu Dhabi on March 20, 2026. (Photo by Ryan Lim / AFP)
People walk along the corniche area in Abu Dhabi on March 20, 2026. (Photo by Ryan Lim / AFP)

Two people were killed and three were wounded by falling debris after air defenses intercepted a ballistic missile on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi, the government media office said on Thursday.

"The incident resulted in the deaths of two unidentified individuals, three injuries, and damage to a number of cars," the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a post on X.