US President Joe Biden wraps up first leg of his West Asia tour and is all set to visit Saudi Arabia today, where he will meet the King and crown prince. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has announced that it will open its airspace to all air carriers, paving the way for more overflights to and from Israel.

US President Joe Biden wraps up first leg of his West Asia tour

US President Joe Biden heads to Saudi Arabia where he will discuss energy supply, human rights, and security cooperation. Biden will also hold meetings with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

US President Joe Biden heads to Saudi Arabia to meet King and Crown Prince

US President Joe Biden heads to Saudi Arabia where he will hold meetings with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Biden's West Asia Tour: US President Joe Biden to land in Jeddah

Saudi Arabia has declared that it will ease restrictions on "all carriers" operating in&nbsp;its airspace. US President Joe Biden who will be visiting the Kingdom soon welcomed the "historic" decision as an attempt at defusing tensions with Israel. In a statement released by the White House, US&nbsp;hailed this as a result of Biden's "persistent diplomacy". US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that the decision was the outcome of the President's "persistent and principled diplomacy with Saudi Arabia over many months, culminating in his visit today," adding that Biden "commends" it.

He added that the US president, who is travelling to the Middle East and will arrive in Saudi Arabia later on Friday, "will have more to say on this breakthrough later today."

Watch |&nbsp;US President Biden &amp; Israeli PM Lapid sign 'Jerusalem declaration'

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Taking to Twitter Saudi's General Authority of Civil Aviation said that it "announces the decision to open the Kingdom's airspace for all air carriers that meet the requirements of the authority for overflying".&nbsp;

As per the statement, the decision was made to "complement the Kingdom's efforts aimed at consolidating the Kingdom's position as a global hub connecting three continents".&nbsp;

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As per an AFP report, in the past, despite Israel's best attempts to forge relationships with Arab nations, Riyadh has refused to recognise the Jewish state.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-seeks-to-counter-russian-aggression-chinese-influence-through-his-visit-to-west-asia-next-week-496073">Joe Biden seeks to counter Russian aggression, Chinese influence through his visit to West Asia next week</a>

Shortly after the Abraham Accords were announced in 2020, Saudi Arabia declared that UAE planes to "all countries" could overfly the country and even permitted an Israeli plane to fly over while travelling to Abu Dhabi.

Following Friday's announcement, aeroplanes flying to and from Israel are no longer subject to overflight restrictions.

Israel has pushed for the right to use overflights to reduce connections to Asian destinations.

The Israeli government also wants direct flights from Israel to Saudi Arabia for Muslim pilgrims who currently have to pay for costly layover costs in other countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Saudi Arabia has declared that it will ease restrictions on "all carriers" operating in its airspace. US President Joe Biden who will be visiting the Kingdom soon welcomed the "historic" decision as an attempt at defusing tensions with Israel.

Saudi Arabia has declared that it will ease restrictions on "all carriers" operating in its airspace. US President Joe Biden who will be visiting the Kingdom soon welcomed the "historic" decision as an attempt at defusing tensions with Israel. In a statement released by the White House, US hailed this as a result of Biden's "persistent diplomacy". US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said that the decision was the outcome of the President's "persistent and principled diplomacy with Saudi Arabia over many months, culminating in his visit today," adding that Biden "commends" it. He added that the US president, who is travelling to the Middle East and will arrive in Saudi Arabia later on Friday, "will have more to say on this breakthrough later today." Watch | US President Biden & Israeli PM Lapid sign 'Jerusalem declaration' Taking to Twitter Saudi's General Authority of Civil Aviation said that it "announces the decision to open the Kingdom's airspace for all air carriers that meet the requirements of the authority for overflying". As per the statement, the decision was made to "complement the Kingdom's efforts aimed at consolidating the Kingdom's position as a global hub connecting three continents". pic.twitter.com/fLlNtsPkbg — هيئة الطيران المدني (@ksagaca) July 14, 2022 × As per an AFP report, in the past, despite Israel's best attempts to forge relationships with Arab nations, Riyadh has refused to recognise the Jewish state. Also read | Joe Biden seeks to counter Russian aggression, Chinese influence through his visit to West Asia next week Shortly after the Abraham Accords were announced in 2020, Saudi Arabia declared that UAE planes to "all countries" could overfly the country and even permitted an Israeli plane to fly over while travelling to Abu Dhabi. Following Friday's announcement, aeroplanes flying to and from Israel are no longer subject to overflight restrictions. Israel has pushed for the right to use overflights to reduce connections to Asian destinations. The Israeli government also wants direct flights from Israel to Saudi Arabia for Muslim pilgrims who currently have to pay for costly layover costs in other countries. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi to open airspace to all including Israel, US hails decision as result of Biden's 'persistent diplomacy'

US President Joe Biden met Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas in the occupied West Bank on the last day of his visit to Israel. His arrival in Bethlehem comes ahead of a visit to Saudi Arabia.

US President Joe Biden meets Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas ahead of Saudi Arabia visit

US President Joe Biden is all set to visit Saudi Arabia today, where he will meet the King and crown prince. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has announced that it will open its airspace to all air carriers, paving the way for more overflights to and from Israel.

US President Joe Biden is all set to visit Saudi Arabia after Palestine

Joe Biden is on his first presidential visit to Israel. From Israel, Biden heads to Saudi Arabia. Biden says the trip is about Israel's security, not oil. Palki Sharma brings you the latest.

Gravitas: Joe Biden in Israel

Iran and Saudi Arabia are interested in holding more talks, Tehran's foreign ministry said on Wednesday, three months after a fifth round of contacts aimed at restoring relations between the Middle East's two main rival powers.

Tehran gave an update on the status of the talks as U.S. President Joe Biden landed in Israel in a high-stakes Middle East trip that will include Saudi Arabia. Both countries are U.S. allies while Iran is a longtime adversary of Washington.

Tehran and Riyadh, the leading Shi'ite and Sunni Muslim powers in the Middle East, severed ties in 2016 with both parties backing opposide sides in proxy wars across the region, from Yemen to Syria and elsewhere.

"Our conclusion is that the negotiations have been positive. Both sides are interested in a continuation of the meetings," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani told a televised weekly news conference.

"The delay in holding the next round of talks between Tehran and Riyadh is due to efforts (being made) to take an important step forward at the next meeting in Baghdad," he said.

In May, Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said there had been some progress in the Iraq-mediated talks with Iran but "not enough".

The fifth round of the talks was held in April after Iran suspended the negotiations in March without giving a reason, but the decision came on the heels of Saudi Arabia's execution of 81 prisoners, its biggest mass use of the death penalty in decades.

Iran condemned the executions, which according to rights activists included 41 Shi'ite Muslims.

U.S. officials say Biden's trip - his first to the Middle East as president - could yield more steps toward normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, historic foes but also two of America's strongest allies in the turbulent region.

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Iran and Saudi Arabia are interested in holding more talks, Tehran's foreign ministry said on Wednesday, three months after a fifth round of contacts aimed at restoring relations between the Middle East's two main rival powers.

Iran and Saudi Arabia are interested in holding more talks, Tehran's foreign ministry said on Wednesday, three months after a fifth round of contacts aimed at restoring relations between the Middle East's two main rival powers. Tehran gave an update on the status of the talks as U.S. President Joe Biden landed in Israel in a high-stakes Middle East trip that will include Saudi Arabia. Both countries are U.S. allies while Iran is a longtime adversary of Washington. Tehran and Riyadh, the leading Shi'ite and Sunni Muslim powers in the Middle East, severed ties in 2016 with both parties backing opposide sides in proxy wars across the region, from Yemen to Syria and elsewhere. "Our conclusion is that the negotiations have been positive. Both sides are interested in a continuation of the meetings," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani told a televised weekly news conference. "The delay in holding the next round of talks between Tehran and Riyadh is due to efforts (being made) to take an important step forward at the next meeting in Baghdad," he said. In May, Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said there had been some progress in the Iraq-mediated talks with Iran but "not enough". The fifth round of the talks was held in April after Iran suspended the negotiations in March without giving a reason, but the decision came on the heels of Saudi Arabia's execution of 81 prisoners, its biggest mass use of the death penalty in decades. Iran condemned the executions, which according to rights activists included 41 Shi'ite Muslims. U.S. officials say Biden's trip - his first to the Middle East as president - could yield more steps toward normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, historic foes but also two of America's strongest allies in the turbulent region. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran says it and Saudi Arabia interested in more talks

As Joe Biden heads to West Asia, reports have emerged that President Biden could discuss the revival of Arms sales to the Saudis. Palki Sharma asks: Does Biden plan to revive the American war machine?

Gravitas: US likely to revive arms sales to Saudi Arabia

US President Joe Biden arrives in Israel where he will meet with both Israel's caretaker prime minister Yair Lapid and the head of opposition, Benjamin Netanyahu. WION's Jodie Cohen brings you more insights.

Biden's West Asia visit: US President to meet Lapid, Bennett and Netanyahu in Israel

US President Joe Biden arrives in Israel to kick off a high-stakes trip to the Middle East dominated by efforts to persuade Gulf allies to pump more oil and bring Israel and Saudi Arabia closer together.

The Full Context: Decoding President Joe Biden's West Asia trip

US President Joe Biden will confront a kaleidoscope of challenges when he travels to West Asia this week, his first trip there since taking office. Molly Gambhir talks about some of the major issues that will be at play during the President Biden's visit.

WION Fineprint | 5 things to watch out for during Biden’s trip to West Asia

The Biden administration is discussing the possible lifting of its ban on US sales of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia. US President Joe Biden is all set to depart for his West Asia trip tomorrow.

US mulls resumption of offensive arms sales to Saudi

US President Joe Biden is set to depart for his West Asia trip tomorrow where he will hold bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz and his leadership team. Oil production and Iran deal will be the top agenda of the meeting.

Biden to visit West Asia: Oil production, Iran deal on agenda

US President Joe Biden is set to depart for his west Asia trip tomorrow where he will hold bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz and his leadership team.

US President Joe Biden to visit West Asia, hold bilateral with Saudi Prince

US President Joe Biden defended his decision to travel to Saudi Arabia saying he aims to reset ties with the crown prince. Biden will hold bilateral talks with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and his leadership team on his visit to the Middle East next week.

US President Biden defends visit to Saudi, says crucial for global positioning

Bittersweet emotions as Saudi welcomes one million for biggest hajj pilgrimage since pandemic - see pics

White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since&nbsp;the coronavirus&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;began.

Banners welcoming the faithful, including the first international visitors&nbsp;since&nbsp;2019, adorned squares and alleys, while armed security forces patrolled the ancient city, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed.

"This is pure joy," Sudanese pilgrim Abdel Qader Kheder told AFP in Mecca, before the event which officially starts Wednesday. "I almost can't believe I am here. I am enjoying every moment."

One&nbsp;million&nbsp;people, including 850,000 from abroad, are allowed at this year's&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;after two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the&nbsp;pandemic. The&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;is one of five pillars of Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims with the means are required to perform at least once.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hajj-pilgrimage-confusion-among-travellers-over-new-saudi-registration-system-492290">Travel cos face losses, applicants confused over Saudi's Hajj registration system</a>

At least 650,000 overseas pilgrims have arrived so far in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, the authorities said on Sunday.

But authorities on Monday barred nearly 100,000 people from entering Mecca, imposing a security cordon around the holy city. A security official said 288 people were arrested and fined for attempting to perform the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;without permits.

In 2019, about 2.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;people took part in the rituals, which also include gathering at Mount Arafat and "stoning the devil" in Mina.

The following year, when the&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;took hold, foreigners were barred and worshippers were restricted to just 10,000 to stop the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;from turning into a global super-spreader.

That figure rose to 60,000 fully vaccinated&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;citizens and residents in 2021.

Pilgrims this year -- only those younger than 65 are allowed -- will participate under strict sanitary conditions.

The&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;has seen numerous disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 people and a 1979 attack by hundreds of gunmen that, according to the official toll, left 153 dead.

Unaccompanied women&nbsp;

On Monday afternoon, pilgrims carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching sun flocked to souvenir and barber shops in Mecca, while others shared meals under palm trees on streets close to the Grand Mosque.

Many new arrivals had already begun performing the first ritual, which requires walking seven times around the Kaaba, the large black cubic structure at the centre of the Grand Mosque.

Made from granite and draped in a cloth featuring verses from the Koran, the Kaaba stands nearly 15 metres (50 feet) tall. It is the structure all Muslims turn towards to pray, no matter where they are in the world.

"When I first saw the Kaaba I felt something weird and started crying," Egyptian pilgrim Mohammed Lotfi told AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;The West Asia Post | Saudi Hajj lottery system slammed by pilgrims

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The&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;is a powerful source of prestige for the conservative desert kingdom and its de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is returning from the diplomatic wilderness.

The&nbsp;hajj, which&nbsp;costs at least $5,000 per person, is a money-spinner for the world's&nbsp;biggest&nbsp;oil exporter trying to diversify its economy. In normal years the&nbsp;pilgrimage&nbsp;brings in billions of dollars.

It is also a chance to showcase the kingdom's rapid social transformation, despite persistent complaints about human rights abuses and limits on personal freedoms.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia now allows women to attend the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;unaccompanied by male relatives, a requirement that was dropped last year.

Serenity

Masks are no longer compulsory in most enclosed spaces in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia but they will be mandatory at the Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Pilgrims from abroad will have to submit a negative PCR test result.&nbsp;

The Grand Mosque will be "washed 10 times a day... by more than 4,000 male and female workers", with more than 130,000 litres (34,000 gallons) of disinfectant used each time, authorities said.

Since&nbsp;the start of the&nbsp;pandemic,&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia has registered more than 795,000 coronavirus cases, 9,000 of them fatal, in a population of about 34&nbsp;million.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/saudi-arabia-welcomes-first-foreign-pilgrims-after-covid-hiatus-485076">Saudi Arabia welcomes first foreign pilgrims after COVID-19 hiatus</a>

Aside from Covid, another challenge is the scorching sun in one of the world's hottest and driest regions, where temperatures have already topped 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in parts of&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia.

But Iraqi pilgrim Ahmed Abdul-Hassan al-Fatlawi said the heat is the last thing he thinks of when in Mecca.

"I am 60 years old, so it's normal if I get physically tired because of the hot weather, but I am in a state of serenity, and that's all that matters to me," he told AFP. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic began.

White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic began. Banners welcoming the faithful, including the first international visitors since 2019, adorned squares and alleys, while armed security forces patrolled the ancient city, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed. "This is pure joy," Sudanese pilgrim Abdel Qader Kheder told AFP in Mecca, before the event which officially starts Wednesday. "I almost can't believe I am here. I am enjoying every moment." One million people, including 850,000 from abroad, are allowed at this year's hajj after two years of drastically curtailed numbers due to the pandemic. The pilgrimage is one of five pillars of Islam, which all able-bodied Muslims with the means are required to perform at least once. Also read | Travel cos face losses, applicants confused over Saudi's Hajj registration system At least 650,000 overseas pilgrims have arrived so far in Saudi Arabia, the authorities said on Sunday. But authorities on Monday barred nearly 100,000 people from entering Mecca, imposing a security cordon around the holy city. A security official said 288 people were arrested and fined for attempting to perform the hajj without permits. In 2019, about 2.5 million people took part in the rituals, which also include gathering at Mount Arafat and "stoning the devil" in Mina. The following year, when the pandemic took hold, foreigners were barred and worshippers were restricted to just 10,000 to stop the hajj from turning into a global super-spreader. That figure rose to 60,000 fully vaccinated Saudi citizens and residents in 2021. Pilgrims this year -- only those younger than 65 are allowed -- will participate under strict sanitary conditions. The hajj has seen numerous disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 people and a 1979 attack by hundreds of gunmen that, according to the official toll, left 153 dead. Unaccompanied women On Monday afternoon, pilgrims carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching sun flocked to souvenir and barber shops in Mecca, while others shared meals under palm trees on streets close to the Grand Mosque. Many new arrivals had already begun performing the first ritual, which requires walking seven times around the Kaaba, the large black cubic structure at the centre of the Grand Mosque. Made from granite and draped in a cloth featuring verses from the Koran, the Kaaba stands nearly 15 metres (50 feet) tall. It is the structure all Muslims turn towards to pray, no matter where they are in the world. "When I first saw the Kaaba I felt something weird and started crying," Egyptian pilgrim Mohammed Lotfi told AFP. Watch | The West Asia Post | Saudi Hajj lottery system slammed by pilgrims The pilgrimage is a powerful source of prestige for the conservative desert kingdom and its de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is returning from the diplomatic wilderness. The hajj, which costs at least $5,000 per person, is a money-spinner for the world's biggest oil exporter trying to diversify its economy. In normal years the pilgrimage brings in billions of dollars. It is also a chance to showcase the kingdom's rapid social transformation, despite persistent complaints about human rights abuses and limits on personal freedoms. Saudi Arabia now allows women to attend the hajj unaccompanied by male relatives, a requirement that was dropped last year. Serenity Masks are no longer compulsory in most enclosed spaces in Saudi Arabia but they will be mandatory at the Grand Mosque, the holiest site in Islam. Pilgrims from abroad will have to submit a negative PCR test result. The Grand Mosque will be "washed 10 times a day... by more than 4,000 male and female workers", with more than 130,000 litres (34,000 gallons) of disinfectant used each time, authorities said. Since the start of the pandemic, Saudi Arabia has registered more than 795,000 coronavirus cases, 9,000 of them fatal, in a population of about 34 million. Also read | Saudi Arabia welcomes first foreign pilgrims after COVID-19 hiatus Aside from Covid, another challenge is the scorching sun in one of the world's hottest and driest regions, where temperatures have already topped 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit) in parts of Saudi Arabia. But Iraqi pilgrim Ahmed Abdul-Hassan al-Fatlawi said the heat is the last thing he thinks of when in Mecca. "I am 60 years old, so it's normal if I get physically tired because of the hot weather, but I am in a state of serenity, and that's all that matters to me," he told AFP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia welcomes 1 million for biggest hajj pilgrimage since pandemic

Middle eastern women are breaking gender stereotypes. Meet Saudi Arabia's first certified autocross trainer as she takes on the Auto industry.

Women take on the Auto industry: Meet Saudi Arabia's first certified autocross trainer

Saudi authorities are all set to welcome Muslims from abroad for the annual hajj after two years. In the past two years, pilgrims who were not already in the kingdom were barred because of the restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Saudi authorities are all set to welcome Muslims from abroad for the annual hajj after two years. In the past two years, pilgrims who were not already in the kingdom were barred because of the restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. But recently, the Saudi government announced that pilgrims from Europe, the United States and Australia could no longer book through travel agencies. The authorities said that they would instead have to apply through a lottery system. The move was announced weeks before the start of the pilgrimage to Mecca from 7 to 12 July. The Saudi government's move has apparently led to confusion among some of the British Muslims who booked pilgrimages to Mecca. Media reports have mentioned that the announcement by Saudi Arabia is a move to crack down on fraudulent travel agency firms. ALSO READ | Australia: Muslims accuse Twitter of failing to take action against accounts that incite hatred As per reports by UK-based media outlets, people are unable to board a flight due to the problems with a new Saudi registration system continue. Not just the pilgrims, the travel companies are also impacted. As reported by The Guardian, the sudden change could cause even genuine travel firms to go out of business. As per the reports, travellers potentially lose thousands of pounds. It is understood tha the moon of Zil Hajj is likely to be sighted on the evening of June 30. It will mark the start of the holy month. The hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is meant to be undertaken by all Muslims who are able and have the means at least once in their lives. It consists of a series of religious rites that are completed over five days in Islam's holiest city, Mecca, and surrounding areas of western Saudi Arabia. ALSO READ | US moving to establish an Asia-style NATO, says North Korea Pilgrims face growing heat stroke risks Apart from the ticket chaos, pilgrims also face growing heat stroke risks as scientists have warned that the sacred rite is under threat due to deadly rising heat. The risk of pilgrims suffering life-threatening heat stroke could rise five-fold with global warming of 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) above preindustrial times, found the study in the journal Environmental Research Letters. With an increase of 2C - the less ambitious goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement - the probability becomes 10 times higher, said Climate Analytics, a Berlin-based think-tank. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Travel cos face losses, applicants confused over Saudi's Hajj registration system

Murtaja Qureiris was released from prison on June 24, ending her status as the youngest political prisoner in Saudi Arabia, according to attorneys and campaigners. He is a Shia man who faced the possibility of the death penalty after being detained when he was just 13 years old.

Qureiris was detained by Saudi officials at the age of 13, three years after he was charged with taking part in a bike protest during the 2011 Arab Spring when he was just ten years old. He spent nearly four years in pre-trial incarceration before receiving a charge sheet that called for the death penalty.

Qureiris, according to the prosecution, participated in "an extremist terror group" and used violence during demonstrations, including allegedly helping to make Molotov cocktails. All of the accusations against Qureiris were refuted. Qureiris was stopped by Saudi border guards on the King Fahd causeway connecting the two nations while on his way to Bahrain with his family. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Asia to pay more for oil from Saudi Arabia

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"Murtaja Qureiris, detained since 2014 when he was only 13, has been released following the expiry of his sentence," ALQST for Human Rights said on Twitter.

"Qureiris had been at risk of the death penalty, and was later sentenced to eight years on charges including participating in protests at the age of 10," the London-based group added.

It said he "should never have been arrested".

Amnesty International in the Gulf said it was "happy" for Qureiris and his family.

Ali al-Nimr, who was detained as a minor in 2012 for taking part in anti-government rallies and was given a death sentence that was later commuted, is among the young Shia men who have been freed by Saudi Arabia in recent months.

Nimr is the nephew of Shia cleric Nimr al-Nimr, whose execution by Saudi Arabia in 2016 caused Tehran and Riyadh to suspend diplomatic ties.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has announced a number of court-sentencing reforms, including the suspension of the death penalty for drug offences and the elimination of court-ordered floggings.

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Murtaja Qureiris was released from prison on June 24, ending her status as the youngest political prisoner in Saudi Arabia, according to attorneys and campaigners.

Murtaja Qureiris was released from prison on June 24, ending her status as the youngest political prisoner in Saudi Arabia, according to attorneys and campaigners. He is a Shia man who faced the possibility of the death penalty after being detained when he was just 13 years old. Qureiris was detained by Saudi officials at the age of 13, three years after he was charged with taking part in a bike protest during the 2011 Arab Spring when he was just ten years old. He spent nearly four years in pre-trial incarceration before receiving a charge sheet that called for the death penalty. Qureiris, according to the prosecution, participated in "an extremist terror group" and used violence during demonstrations, including allegedly helping to make Molotov cocktails. All of the accusations against Qureiris were refuted. Qureiris was stopped by Saudi border guards on the King Fahd causeway connecting the two nations while on his way to Bahrain with his family. Watch | Gravitas: Asia to pay more for oil from Saudi Arabia "Murtaja Qureiris, detained since 2014 when he was only 13, has been released following the expiry of his sentence," ALQST for Human Rights said on Twitter. "Qureiris had been at risk of the death penalty, and was later sentenced to eight years on charges including participating in protests at the age of 10," the London-based group added. It said he "should never have been arrested". Amnesty International in the Gulf said it was "happy" for Qureiris and his family. Ali al-Nimr, who was detained as a minor in 2012 for taking part in anti-government rallies and was given a death sentence that was later commuted, is among the young Shia men who have been freed by Saudi Arabia in recent months. Nimr is the nephew of Shia cleric Nimr al-Nimr, whose execution by Saudi Arabia in 2016 caused Tehran and Riyadh to suspend diplomatic ties. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has announced a number of court-sentencing reforms, including the suspension of the death penalty for drug offences and the elimination of court-ordered floggings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

This Saudi prisoner was arrested at 13 and faced execution. He is now freed

In the year 2020 Israel made new Arab friends- the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Morocco. Normalization was the word on the streets, peace deals were built as game changers and nearly two years later the region is once again talking about normalization this time between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Saudi-Israel normalisation on cards? Will Riyadh recognise Israel?

Saudi crown prince MBS has embarked on a regional tour. He has arrived in Jordan and this is his first trip to Jordan since being named the heir to the throne in 2017.

Mohammed Bin Salman on a regional tour: Crown Prince MBS meets Jordan's king

Saudi crown prince MBS has embarked on a regional tour. He started with a two-day visit to Egypt before heading to Jordan and Turkiye.

Saudi Crown Prince MBS travels to Egypt at start of regional tour

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in Jordan on Tuesday and meet Jordan's King Abdullah. This is first such visit in years by de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia. Jordan's economy is currently struggling due to knock-on effects of the Ukraine war.

"This is an opportunity for a new phase in Jordanian-Saudi ties and to continue a program of economic projects and new investments," a senior Jordanian official told Reuters.

There is speculation that the meet will result in unblocking of at least USD 3 billion of investment projects that Saudi Arabia committed to in recent years, but which never materialized.

Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is looking into investing billions of dollars in mega-infrastructure projects in Jordan, including an estimated $2.5 billion railway project, a senior Jordanian official said.

Saudi Arabia has over $12 billion worth of investments in Jordan and once rescued Jordan with cash injections but has held off direct budget support.

Officials said discussions would look at more ways to help Jordan’s economy, which has been hammered by rising fuel prices and higher food imports. Jordan imports most of its energy needs.

Officials say Jordan's economic strains have worsened with the end of Gulf grants and little extra funding from Western donors in the last few years to cope with sluggish growth and high unemployment.

King Abdullah will also discuss with the Saudi prince a summit meeting next month in Jeddah where U.S. President Joe Biden will meet with leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council in addition to Iraq, Jordan and Egypt.

Saudi Arabia and Jordan share deep concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions and what they see as Tehran's destabilizing role in the region, a Jordanian official said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in Jordan on Tuesday and meet Jordan's King Abdullah. This is first such visit in years by de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in Jordan on Tuesday and meet Jordan's King Abdullah. This is first such visit in years by de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia. Jordan's economy is currently struggling due to knock-on effects of the Ukraine war. "This is an opportunity for a new phase in Jordanian-Saudi ties and to continue a program of economic projects and new investments," a senior Jordanian official told Reuters. There is speculation that the meet will result in unblocking of at least USD 3 billion of investment projects that Saudi Arabia committed to in recent years, but which never materialized. Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is looking into investing billions of dollars in mega-infrastructure projects in Jordan, including an estimated $2.5 billion railway project, a senior Jordanian official said. Saudi Arabia has over $12 billion worth of investments in Jordan and once rescued Jordan with cash injections but has held off direct budget support. Officials said discussions would look at more ways to help Jordan’s economy, which has been hammered by rising fuel prices and higher food imports. Jordan imports most of its energy needs. Officials say Jordan's economic strains have worsened with the end of Gulf grants and little extra funding from Western donors in the last few years to cope with sluggish growth and high unemployment. King Abdullah will also discuss with the Saudi prince a summit meeting next month in Jeddah where U.S. President Joe Biden will meet with leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council in addition to Iraq, Jordan and Egypt. Saudi Arabia and Jordan share deep concerns about Iran's nuclear ambitions and what they see as Tehran's destabilizing role in the region, a Jordanian official said. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi crown prince visits Jordan, thaw in ties expected

This will be the first time that six countries from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will be taking part in a FIFA World Cup as the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar later this year. The usual Asian heavyweights – Saudi Arabia, Iran, Australia, South Korea and Japan – have all booked their spot in the tournament while hosts Qatar will be making their debut. The six teams will also take strength from the fact that the last time Asia hosted the tournament back in 2022, South Korea reached the semi-finals while Japan made it to the Round of 16. With a few months to go ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022, here’s a look at the six AFC teams which will be taking part in the competition -

Australia

The Socceroos had the longest road to the FIFA World Cup 2022 as they defeated Peru on penalties in the inter-confederation play off. The campaign started on a superb note as they topped their first-round group with absolute ease. However, two losses against Japan and another one against Saudi Arabia meant that they had to face United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the fourth-round play-off. It was a hard-fought encounter but Australia were able to clinch the win by a late goal from Ajdin Hrustic. With 7 goals, Jamie Maclaren was the top scorer for them in the qualification process and although substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star against Peru, Matt Ryan will play a major role in their campaign in Qatar. Things will get tougher for the Socceroos as they were placed in Group D where they will face dark horses Denmark, Tunisia and defending champions France.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwe-hit-by-a-scandal-why-has-vince-mcmahon-stepped-down-as-chairman-and-ceo-489435" hreflang="en">WWE hit by a scandal! Why has Vince McMahon stepped down as chairman and CEO?</a>

Japan

Japan finished their first-round qualifying journey with 46 goals from just eight matches and in the second round, it was once again their attackers who guaranteed their seven consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance. The Blue Samurais did slump to defeats against Oman and Saudi Arabia but with the duo of Takumi Minamino and Yuya Osako scoring 10 goals each over the two rounds, it was easy sailing for Hajime Moriyasu’s side. In Qatar, they will be placed in the so-called ‘Group of Death’ along with the two European heavyweights – Germany and Spain – along with Costa Rica.

<img alt="Japanese football team" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="640c1cee-12b1-4d22-acee-99887a5c3420" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/11_10.jpg" />

Iran

Under the management of Dragan Skocic, Iran has the most impressive team in the AFC qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2022. With most goals scored and the most points for any nation, Iran cruised past their opponents with their only loss coming against South Korea. Bayer Leverkusen striker Sardar Azmoun finished the campaign with 10 goals while his strike partner Mehdi Taremi provided able support. This will be Iran’s sixth appearance in the World Cup and with England, Wales and the United States in their group, it will be a tough job for them to reach the playoffs.

South Korea

Son Heung-min and Co had a relatively easy journey to the FIFA World Cup 2022 with five wins out of the six games in the first round and just loss in the second round. The Tottenham superstar led his team by example as he was the top-scorer with six goals but it will be tough for them to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2022 Round of 16 from a group featuring Portugal, Uruguay and Ghana.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-month-lgbtq-couples-in-sports-who-inspire-us-to-come-out-of-the-closet-489114" hreflang="en">Pride Month: LGBTQ couples in sports who inspire us to come out of the closet</a>

Saudi Arabia

Another team which cruised through the qualifying process with just one loss in two rounds. Salem Al-Dawsari and Saleh Al-Shehri top-scored with seven goals and with Argentina, Mexico and Poland in their FIFA World Cup 2022 group, there is an outside chance for the Asian giants to reach the next stage. This will be the sixth appearance for the top Asian side in the FIFA World Cup.

Qatar

This will be the debut appearance for Qatar in the FIFA World Cup as they will be hosting the footballing extravaganza. Qatar took part in the qualification Round 1 in order to secure their place in the Asian Cup 2023 and ended up toping their group with seven victories and one draw. Over the last couple of years, they have taken part in invitational competitions, but it will be a tough road for them in the World Cup as they are placed in Group A along with Ecuador, Senegal and Netherlands.

This will be the first time that six countries from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will be taking part in a FIFA World Cup as the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar later this year.

This will be the first time that six countries from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will be taking part in a FIFA World Cup as the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar later this year. The usual Asian heavyweights – Saudi Arabia, Iran, Australia, South Korea and Japan – have all booked their spot in the tournament while hosts Qatar will be making their debut. The six teams will also take strength from the fact that the last time Asia hosted the tournament back in 2022, South Korea reached the semi-finals while Japan made it to the Round of 16. With a few months to go ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022, here’s a look at the six AFC teams which will be taking part in the competition - Australia The Socceroos had the longest road to the FIFA World Cup 2022 as they defeated Peru on penalties in the inter-confederation play off. The campaign started on a superb note as they topped their first-round group with absolute ease. However, two losses against Japan and another one against Saudi Arabia meant that they had to face United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the fourth-round play-off. It was a hard-fought encounter but Australia were able to clinch the win by a late goal from Ajdin Hrustic. With 7 goals, Jamie Maclaren was the top scorer for them in the qualification process and although substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star against Peru, Matt Ryan will play a major role in their campaign in Qatar. Things will get tougher for the Socceroos as they were placed in Group D where they will face dark horses Denmark, Tunisia and defending champions France. Also read | WWE hit by a scandal! Why has Vince McMahon stepped down as chairman and CEO? Japan Japan finished their first-round qualifying journey with 46 goals from just eight matches and in the second round, it was once again their attackers who guaranteed their seven consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance. The Blue Samurais did slump to defeats against Oman and Saudi Arabia but with the duo of Takumi Minamino and Yuya Osako scoring 10 goals each over the two rounds, it was easy sailing for Hajime Moriyasu’s side. In Qatar, they will be placed in the so-called ‘Group of Death’ along with the two European heavyweights – Germany and Spain – along with Costa Rica. Iran Under the management of Dragan Skocic, Iran has the most impressive team in the AFC qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2022. With most goals scored and the most points for any nation, Iran cruised past their opponents with their only loss coming against South Korea. Bayer Leverkusen striker Sardar Azmoun finished the campaign with 10 goals while his strike partner Mehdi Taremi provided able support. This will be Iran’s sixth appearance in the World Cup and with England, Wales and the United States in their group, it will be a tough job for them to reach the playoffs. South Korea Son Heung-min and Co had a relatively easy journey to the FIFA World Cup 2022 with five wins out of the six games in the first round and just loss in the second round. The Tottenham superstar led his team by example as he was the top-scorer with six goals but it will be tough for them to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2022 Round of 16 from a group featuring Portugal, Uruguay and Ghana. Also read | Pride Month: LGBTQ couples in sports who inspire us to come out of the closet Saudi Arabia Another team which cruised through the qualifying process with just one loss in two rounds. Salem Al-Dawsari and Saleh Al-Shehri top-scored with seven goals and with Argentina, Mexico and Poland in their FIFA World Cup 2022 group, there is an outside chance for the Asian giants to reach the next stage. This will be the sixth appearance for the top Asian side in the FIFA World Cup. Qatar This will be the debut appearance for Qatar in the FIFA World Cup as they will be hosting the footballing extravaganza. Qatar took part in the qualification Round 1 in order to secure their place in the Asian Cup 2023 and ended up toping their group with seven victories and one draw. Over the last couple of years, they have taken part in invitational competitions, but it will be a tough road for them in the World Cup as they are placed in Group A along with Ecuador, Senegal and Netherlands.

FIFA World Cup 2022: A look at the Asian contingent as record six teams qualify

A video going around on social media is showing&nbsp;US President Joe Biden in an apparently&nbsp;confused state of mind about&nbsp;his visit to Saudi Arabia. The clip shows Biden saying he doesn't have plans to go to Saudi Arabia just minutes before talking about his upcoming visit there.

Reporters then question him, "What would be holding up the decision at this point? Are there commitments from the Saudis you're waiting for?" to which he immediately responds, "It happens to be a larger meeting taking place in Saudi Arabia. That's the reason I'm going."

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Biden is asked if he has decided to go to Saudi Arabia and he says “no, not yet.” 
 
Then he says “that’s the reason I’m going.” <a href="https://t.co/7jMMd7NpeC">pic.twitter.com/7jMMd7NpeC</a>
— Suzy (@Suzy_NotSuzy) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suzy_NotSuzy/status/1536438606340161536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-dc-street-in-front-of-saudi-embassy-named-after-jamal-khashoggi-488646">Washington DC street in front of Saudi embassy named after Jamal Khashoggi</a>

Twitter users have attempted to decode Biden's reaction to the Saudi Arabia visit. Since the video was uploaded, it has crossed 5K views and millions of comments.&nbsp;

&nbsp;
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Watch |&nbsp;Washington renames Saudi Embassy street as 'Jamal Khashoggi way'

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"The man does not know he is alive." wrote a&nbsp;user.

There have also been several retweets of the video with people's own captions.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the White House announced that President Joe Biden would be travelling to the Middle East next month with visits to Israel, the occupied west bank, and Saudi Arabia.

In Saudi, Biden will be meeting Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-to-visit-saudi-arabia-in-july-plans-to-meet-with-mohammed-bin-salman-488137">Joe Biden to visit Saudi Arabia in July, plans to meet with Mohammed bin Salman</a>

However, according to reports, several people from the Democratic party have been against the proposed visit to the country because of the human rights violations against Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The visit will address several global challenges with Saudi Arabia, including the rising oil prices and the Iran nuclear crisis, reported Wall Street Journal quoting US officials.

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A video going around on social media is showing US President Joe Biden in an apparently confused state of mind about his visit to Saudi Arabia. The clip shows Biden saying he doesn't have plans to go to Saudi Arabia just minutes before talking about his upcoming visit there.

A video going around on social media is showing US President Joe Biden in an apparently confused state of mind about his visit to Saudi Arabia. The clip shows Biden saying he doesn't have plans to go to Saudi Arabia just minutes before talking about his upcoming visit there. Reporters then question him, "What would be holding up the decision at this point? Are there commitments from the Saudis you're waiting for?" to which he immediately responds, "It happens to be a larger meeting taking place in Saudi Arabia. That's the reason I'm going." Biden is asked if he has decided to go to Saudi Arabia and he says “no, not yet.” Then he says “that’s the reason I’m going.” pic.twitter.com/7jMMd7NpeC — Suzy (@Suzy_NotSuzy) June 13, 2022 × Also read | Washington DC street in front of Saudi embassy named after Jamal Khashoggi Twitter users have attempted to decode Biden's reaction to the Saudi Arabia visit. Since the video was uploaded, it has crossed 5K views and millions of comments. Watch | Washington renames Saudi Embassy street as 'Jamal Khashoggi way' "The man does not know he is alive." wrote a user. There have also been several retweets of the video with people's own captions. On Tuesday, the White House announced that President Joe Biden would be travelling to the Middle East next month with visits to Israel, the occupied west bank, and Saudi Arabia. In Saudi, Biden will be meeting Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Also read | Joe Biden to visit Saudi Arabia in July, plans to meet with Mohammed bin Salman However, according to reports, several people from the Democratic party have been against the proposed visit to the country because of the human rights violations against Saudi Arabia. The visit will address several global challenges with Saudi Arabia, including the rising oil prices and the Iran nuclear crisis, reported Wall Street Journal quoting US officials. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Joe Biden 'confused' whether he is going to Saudi Arabia, Twitter trying to decode

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Russia-Ukraine war, Joe Biden's Saudi Arabia visit | WION

Authorities in Saudi Arabia are cracking down on homosexuality-related goods in the country. Shops in the national capital of Riyadh were raided by the officials where they seized rainbow-colored toys and articles of clothing.

Saudi officials conduct raid in capital, seizes Rainbow toys

Just one month before US President Joe Biden’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Washington renamed Saudi embassy street as ‘Jamal Khashoggi Way’. Khashoggi was killed in Saudi consulate in Istanbul 2018.

Washington renames Saudi Embassy street as 'Jamal Khashoggi way'

Saudi Arabia has announced a new golf league to challenge the PGA tour. The attractive prize money has lured a handful of top golfers to the Saudi-backed league. How will this move affect the world of golf? Is this another instance of sports washing? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you.

Gravitas: Saudi league splits top golfers

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