Pakistan has returned to Saudi Arabia with the 'begging bowl'. Its Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has landed in Riyadh. What for? To seek funds, oil and concessions. Back in Lahore, a court has summoned him over a money laundering case. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Shehbaz Sharif lands in Saudi Arabia

A video showing hundreds of pilgrims shouting "chor chor" (thieves) at Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's delegation while it made way to Masjid-e-Nawabi in Madina, has gone viral online. Police reportedly later made arrests for violating sanctity.

In a video, Pakistan's Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and member of the National Assembly Shahzain Bugti were seen along with others. According to a&nbsp;Pakistani newspaper, Aurangzeb indirectly blamed ousted Imran Khan for the protest.

"I will not name this person on this holy land because I do not want to use this land for politics. But they have destroyed the [Pakistani] society," The Express Tribune quoted Aurangzeb as saying.

Watch | Pakistan PM in Saudi: Shehbaz Sharif may seek a $7.4 bn Saudi aid package

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Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif is on a three-day official visit to Saudi Arabia. Dozens of Pakistani officials and political leaders have accompanied Sharif.

Taking to Twitter and sharing the video, netizens wrote, "Proud Pakistanis, please be heartened by witnessing what a wonderful welcome our PM and his Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) gang of criminals got in Saudi Arabia."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/naya-pakistan-against-sharia-make-banking-system-interest-free-by-dec-2027-federal-shariat-court-tells-govt-474728">Naya Pakistan? Shariat court calls banking system against Sharia, tells govt to make it interest-free by 2027</a>

Another Twitter user, Muhammad Ibrahim Qazi said that Saudi Arabia citizens are calling out ousted PM Imran Khan.&nbsp;

"Citizens of Saudi Arabia are calling out Ousted PM Imran Khan to have exported the moral obscenity to the Prophet`s Mosque in Madinah. They are also condemning Pakistanis for violating the Kingdom`s laws," Qazi said.

Sharif was sworn in as Pakistan`s 23rd Prime Minister on April 11 after his predecessor Imran Khan was ousted in a no-confidence vote.

During his Saudi Arabia visit, Sharif is likely to seek additional package of USD 3.2 billion from Saudi Arabia. He is understood to be going to make this request to Saudi Arabia to prevent further depletion of Pakistan's foreign currency reserves.

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Saudi Arabia had already given USD 3 billion deposits to the debt-ridden country and an oil facility on deferred payment worth USD 1.2 billion during Imran Khan`s tenure. Estimates say Pakistan requires USD 12 billion to prevent the balance of payment crisis and further depletion of the foreign currency reserves.

(With inputs from agencies)

A video showing hundreds of pilgrims shouting "chor chor" (thieves) at Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's delegation while it made way to Masjid-e-Nawabi in Madina, has gone viral online.

A video showing hundreds of pilgrims shouting "chor chor" (thieves) at Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's delegation while it made way to Masjid-e-Nawabi in Madina, has gone viral online. Police reportedly later made arrests for violating sanctity. In a video, Pakistan's Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and member of the National Assembly Shahzain Bugti were seen along with others. According to a Pakistani newspaper, Aurangzeb indirectly blamed ousted Imran Khan for the protest. "I will not name this person on this holy land because I do not want to use this land for politics. But they have destroyed the [Pakistani] society," The Express Tribune quoted Aurangzeb as saying. Watch | Pakistan PM in Saudi: Shehbaz Sharif may seek a $7.4 bn Saudi aid package × Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif is on a three-day official visit to Saudi Arabia. Dozens of Pakistani officials and political leaders have accompanied Sharif. Taking to Twitter and sharing the video, netizens wrote, "Proud Pakistanis, please be heartened by witnessing what a wonderful welcome our PM and his Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) gang of criminals got in Saudi Arabia." Also Read | Naya Pakistan? Shariat court calls banking system against Sharia, tells govt to make it interest-free by 2027 Another Twitter user, Muhammad Ibrahim Qazi said that Saudi Arabia citizens are calling out ousted PM Imran Khan. "Citizens of Saudi Arabia are calling out Ousted PM Imran Khan to have exported the moral obscenity to the Prophet`s Mosque in Madinah. They are also condemning Pakistanis for violating the Kingdom`s laws," Qazi said. Sharif was sworn in as Pakistan`s 23rd Prime Minister on April 11 after his predecessor Imran Khan was ousted in a no-confidence vote. During his Saudi Arabia visit, Sharif is likely to seek additional package of USD 3.2 billion from Saudi Arabia. He is understood to be going to make this request to Saudi Arabia to prevent further depletion of Pakistan's foreign currency reserves. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Saudi Arabia had already given USD 3 billion deposits to the debt-ridden country and an oil facility on deferred payment worth USD 1.2 billion during Imran Khan`s tenure. Estimates say Pakistan requires USD 12 billion to prevent the balance of payment crisis and further depletion of the foreign currency reserves. (With inputs from agencies)

'Chor chor': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif greeted in Saudi Arabia with chants calling him thief

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday in the first high-level visit in years which he hopes will herald a new era of relations after intense efforts to repair strained ties.

Erdogan visits Saudi Arabia in hopes for new era of relations after intense efforts to repair strained ties

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday (by local time) arrived in Saudi Arabia. This is Erdogan's first visit to Saudi Arabia after Saudi-critic Jamal Khashoggi killing in Turkey. Erdogan is hoping to start a new chapter in relations between the two countries. There have been intense efforts to repair relations.

Turkish presidency said that Erdogan met King Salma in an official ceremony in the city of Jeddah.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, attended the ceremony before having a one-on-one meeting with Erdogan, Ankara's communication office said on Twitter.

Erdogan's office says that his visit to Saudi Arabia has been at the invitation of the Saudi king. The visit marks the culmination of a months-long drive to mend ties that included dropping a trial over the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul in 2018.

Analysts and officials say Saudi funding could help Turkey alleviate its economic woes, including soaring inflation, ahead of tough elections for Erdogan next year.

Bilateral relations were badly strained after Khashoggi was killed and dismembered by a Saudi hit squad at the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul in 2018. At the time, Erdogan accused the "highest levels" of the Saudi government of giving the orders, but Ankara has since markedly softened its tone.

In a policy reversal, Turkey this month halted and transferred its own trial of the Saudi suspects in the killing to Saudi Arabia in a move condemned by human rights groups.

Erdogan, while speaking with reporters before departing for Jeddah that the visit was "the manifestation of our common will" to improve ties a

He added it would be mutually beneficial to boost cooperation in areas including health, energy, food security, defence industry, and finance.

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"With common efforts, I believe we will carry our ties even beyond where they were in the past," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday (by local time) arrived in Saudi Arabia. This is Erdogan's first visit to Saudi Arabia after Saudi-critic Jamal Khashoggi killing in Turkey.

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday (by local time) arrived in Saudi Arabia. This is Erdogan's first visit to Saudi Arabia after Saudi-critic Jamal Khashoggi killing in Turkey. Erdogan is hoping to start a new chapter in relations between the two countries. There have been intense efforts to repair relations. Turkish presidency said that Erdogan met King Salma in an official ceremony in the city of Jeddah. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, attended the ceremony before having a one-on-one meeting with Erdogan, Ankara's communication office said on Twitter. Erdogan's office says that his visit to Saudi Arabia has been at the invitation of the Saudi king. The visit marks the culmination of a months-long drive to mend ties that included dropping a trial over the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul in 2018. Analysts and officials say Saudi funding could help Turkey alleviate its economic woes, including soaring inflation, ahead of tough elections for Erdogan next year. Bilateral relations were badly strained after Khashoggi was killed and dismembered by a Saudi hit squad at the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul in 2018. At the time, Erdogan accused the "highest levels" of the Saudi government of giving the orders, but Ankara has since markedly softened its tone. In a policy reversal, Turkey this month halted and transferred its own trial of the Saudi suspects in the killing to Saudi Arabia in a move condemned by human rights groups. Erdogan, while speaking with reporters before departing for Jeddah that the visit was "the manifestation of our common will" to improve ties a He added it would be mutually beneficial to boost cooperation in areas including health, energy, food security, defence industry, and finance. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × "With common efforts, I believe we will carry our ties even beyond where they were in the past," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish President Erdogan visits Saudi Arabia hoping for new chapter in ties

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is targeting a tenfold increase in global airline passengers by the end of this decade this as it looks to triple passenger traffic every year, it's a tenfold increase that would mean that global transit traffic jumping to 30 million in 2030.

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aiming for tenfold increase in air transit traffic by 2030

Newly-elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has kicked off a controversy over his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia. Opposition parties in Pakistan are targetting Shehbaz for a large entourage he is likely to have with him as he visits Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Pakistani news outlet Dawn reported that 40 people, including 16 of Sharif's relatives are part of the entourage. &nbsp;Dozens of officials and political leaders will accompany the PM.

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), the party led by former prime minister Imran Khan has raised questions on this.

On Monday Pakistan's Minister for Information &nbsp;Marriyum Aurangzeb said Shehbaz Sharif was travelling to Saudi Arabia at his own expense. She slammed PTI leaders for spreading "lies" about the trip set to take place later this week.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-accuses-nawaz-sharif-of-conspiring-to-dislodge-his-government-473299">Imran Khan accuses Nawaz Sharif of conspiring to dislodge his government</a>

"Contrary to lies being propagated by PTI, Prime Minister will be travelling to Saudi Arabia later this week on a commercial flight at his own expense," Marriyum said on Twitter."Even during his 10 years as CM Punjab during 2008-18, he always travelled commercially and at his own expense," she added.

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Contrary to lies being propagated by PTI, Prime Minister will be travelling to Saudi Arabia later this week on a commercial flight at his own expense. Even during his 10 years as CM Punjab during 2008-18, he always travelled commercially and at his own expense. <a href="https://t.co/5dGb0Gin9b">pic.twitter.com/5dGb0Gin9b</a>
— Marriyum Aurangzeb (@Marriyum_A) <a href="https://twitter.com/Marriyum_A/status/1518613284504719360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, sons of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have denied speculation that they will be visiting Saudi Arabia along with Shehbaz Sharif.&nbsp;

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"The news run about my Saudi visit is completely fake and run with malicious intentions. I never had any plan to go to Saudi Arabia. I didn`t apply for a visa and I am very much in London. I am in London with my father and I have no plans of visiting Saudi Arabia anytime soon," said Hassan Nawaz Sharif. He was quoted by Geo TV.

(With inputs from agencies)

Newly-elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has kicked off a controversy over his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia. Opposition parties in Pakistan are targetting Shehbaz for a large entourage he is likely to have with him as he visits Saudi Arabia.

Newly-elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has kicked off a controversy over his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia. Opposition parties in Pakistan are targetting Shehbaz for a large entourage he is likely to have with him as he visits Saudi Arabia. Pakistani news outlet Dawn reported that 40 people, including 16 of Sharif's relatives are part of the entourage. Dozens of officials and political leaders will accompany the PM. Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), the party led by former prime minister Imran Khan has raised questions on this. On Monday Pakistan's Minister for Information Marriyum Aurangzeb said Shehbaz Sharif was travelling to Saudi Arabia at his own expense. She slammed PTI leaders for spreading "lies" about the trip set to take place later this week. Also Read | Imran Khan accuses Nawaz Sharif of conspiring to dislodge his government "Contrary to lies being propagated by PTI, Prime Minister will be travelling to Saudi Arabia later this week on a commercial flight at his own expense," Marriyum said on Twitter."Even during his 10 years as CM Punjab during 2008-18, he always travelled commercially and at his own expense," she added. Contrary to lies being propagated by PTI, Prime Minister will be travelling to Saudi Arabia later this week on a commercial flight at his own expense. Even during his 10 years as CM Punjab during 2008-18, he always travelled commercially and at his own expense. pic.twitter.com/5dGb0Gin9b — Marriyum Aurangzeb (@Marriyum_A) April 25, 2022 × Meanwhile, sons of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have denied speculation that they will be visiting Saudi Arabia along with Shehbaz Sharif. Watch WION Live! × "The news run about my Saudi visit is completely fake and run with malicious intentions. I never had any plan to go to Saudi Arabia. I didn`t apply for a visa and I am very much in London. I am in London with my father and I have no plans of visiting Saudi Arabia anytime soon," said Hassan Nawaz Sharif. He was quoted by Geo TV. (With inputs from agencies)

Shehbaz Sharif courts controversy due to huge entourage for Saudi visit 

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will embark on his foreign trip to Saudi Arabia but his first international trip has been mired in controversy even before it began.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's allies, family members to join for Saudi Arabia visit

Will Marvel's latest&nbsp;'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' release&nbsp;in Saudi Arabia, finally?&nbsp;A few days back, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-doctor-strange-in-the-multiverse-of-madness-wont-release-in-saudi-arabia-473069">we had reported that the film</a> had not received a distribution certificate in the country ahead of its May 5 release.&nbsp;

An official of the country had clarified to the media that they were open to negotiate with the film's production house- Disney and demanded cuts in the film prior to its release.&nbsp; 
 
According to reports, the country wanted Disney to cut a scene with same-sex relationship references but the studio has refused.&nbsp; 
 
Several media reports state that the film though still holds a chance of a release- as talks are underway.&nbsp; 
 
This is the second time that a Marvel film is facing problems in Saudi Arabia in recent months.&nbsp; 
 
'The Eternals' did not play in Saudi Arabia over its same-gender couple romance and the MCU's first gay superhero. 
Quite often movies with LGBTQ content don`t make it past censors in the Gulf, and `Doctor Strange 2` features America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) who is gay in the Marvel comics. 
 
While it was earlier assumed that Saudi Arabia had problems with the particular character, a recent report in The Guardian states that Saudi's hesitation in letting the film release is due to a scene where Chavez is shown to have two mothers.&nbsp; 
 
Nawaf Alsabhan, Saudi Arabia’s general supervisor of cinema classification spoke to The Guardian, "It’s just her talking about her moms because she has two moms. And being in the Middle East, it’s very tough to pass something like this. We sent it to the distributor, and the distributor sent it to Disney, and Disney has told us they are not willing."&nbsp; 
 
The officials in the country are still open to negotiations. Speaking to the news agency AFP, one Saudi official said, “It will never be banned. There’s no reason to ban the film. It’s a simple edit...so far they have refused. But we haven’t closed the door. We’re still trying.” 
&nbsp;

Will Marvel's latest 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' release in Saudi Arabia, finally? A few days back, we had reported that the film had not received a distribution certificate in the country ahead of its May 5 release.

Will Marvel's latest 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' release in Saudi Arabia, finally? A few days back, we had reported that the film had not received a distribution certificate in the country ahead of its May 5 release. An official of the country had clarified to the media that they were open to negotiate with the film's production house- Disney and demanded cuts in the film prior to its release. According to reports, the country wanted Disney to cut a scene with same-sex relationship references but the studio has refused. Several media reports state that the film though still holds a chance of a release- as talks are underway. This is the second time that a Marvel film is facing problems in Saudi Arabia in recent months. 'The Eternals' did not play in Saudi Arabia over its same-gender couple romance and the MCU's first gay superhero. Quite often movies with LGBTQ content don`t make it past censors in the Gulf, and `Doctor Strange 2` features America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) who is gay in the Marvel comics. While it was earlier assumed that Saudi Arabia had problems with the particular character, a recent report in The Guardian states that Saudi's hesitation in letting the film release is due to a scene where Chavez is shown to have two mothers. Nawaf Alsabhan, Saudi Arabia’s general supervisor of cinema classification spoke to The Guardian, "It’s just her talking about her moms because she has two moms. And being in the Middle East, it’s very tough to pass something like this. We sent it to the distributor, and the distributor sent it to Disney, and Disney has told us they are not willing." The officials in the country are still open to negotiations. Speaking to the news agency AFP, one Saudi official said, “It will never be banned. There’s no reason to ban the film. It’s a simple edit...so far they have refused. But we haven’t closed the door. We’re still trying.”

Doctor Strange 2: Saudi Arabia demands cut in LGBTQ scenes, Disney refuses

Marvel's upcoming film 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' will miss its date in Saudi Arabia. The film will not be getting a theatrical release in the country.&nbsp; 
 
While reports state&nbsp;that the film has not been banned, it simply hasn't received a distribution certificate. The film was scheduled to release across the Gulf on May 5. But since the certification has not been given, the release seems unlikely.&nbsp; 
 
This is the second time that a Marvel film is facing problems in Saudi Arabia in recent months.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/angelina-jolie-calls-eternals-ban-in-gulf-countries-over-same-sex-scenes-ignorant-427404">Angelina Jolie calls 'Eternals’ ban in Gulf countries over same-sex scenes 'ignorant'</a>

'The Eternals' did not play in Saudi Arabia over its same-gender couple romance and the MCU's first gay superhero. 
Quite often movies with LGBTQ content don`t make it past censors in the Gulf, and `Doctor Strange 2` features America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) who is gay in the Marvel comics.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-steven-spielbergs-west-side-story-banned-in-saudi-arabia-uae-and-other-neighbouring-regions-434841">Steven Spielberg's 'West Side Story' banned in Saudi Arabia, UAE and other neighbouring regions</a> 
 
The sequel is expected to be released in the United Arab Emirates though. The film has Benedict Cumberbatch playing the lead role.&nbsp;

Marvel's upcoming film 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' will miss its date in Saudi Arabia. The film will not be getting a theatrical release in the country.

Marvel's upcoming film 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' will miss its date in Saudi Arabia. The film will not be getting a theatrical release in the country. While reports state that the film has not been banned, it simply hasn't received a distribution certificate. The film was scheduled to release across the Gulf on May 5. But since the certification has not been given, the release seems unlikely. This is the second time that a Marvel film is facing problems in Saudi Arabia in recent months. Angelina Jolie calls 'Eternals’ ban in Gulf countries over same-sex scenes 'ignorant' 'The Eternals' did not play in Saudi Arabia over its same-gender couple romance and the MCU's first gay superhero. Quite often movies with LGBTQ content don`t make it past censors in the Gulf, and `Doctor Strange 2` features America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) who is gay in the Marvel comics. Steven Spielberg's 'West Side Story' banned in Saudi Arabia, UAE and other neighbouring regions The sequel is expected to be released in the United Arab Emirates though. The film has Benedict Cumberbatch playing the lead role.

'Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness' won't release in Saudi Arabia

Saudi state tv aired an episode that openly ridiculed US president Joe Biden and that program goes viral on the internet. In the comedy sketch, Biden's character appeared sleepy and forgetful.

Saudi state TV airs episode that openly ridicules Joe Biden

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the show, Biden is portrayed as a forgetful old man who fell asleep at the podium. He was woken up by a woman, who is apparently playing the role of US Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-800-million-in-military-assistance-us-gives-heavier-high-power-capabilities-equipment-to-ukraine-470855">In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine</a>

In the one-minute clip, reel-life Biden can be seen moving about on the stage. He seems to be forgetting the name of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. After that, he falls asleep while speaking. Also, called VP his 'First Lady'.&nbsp;

In the viral clip, he said, "Listen to me [forgets Putin's name]. I have a very important message for you. The message is…" [still don't remember Putin's name].&nbsp;

He starts again and then said that "we are going to talk about the crisis in Africa," only to be corrected by Harris again as earlier he said "the crisis in Spain." In the clip, Harris can be seen bringing Biden back to address Russia.&nbsp;

In the end, the fake president wraps up the news conference by thanking everyone. He says, "Thank you very much. God bless you, and God bless…"

He again dozes off in the arms of Harris.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/this-is-how-a-nasa-sample-of-lunar-dust-came-to-be-sold-at-a-public-auction-for-500000-470899">This is how a NASA sample of lunar dust came to be sold at a public auction for $500,000</a>

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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For the first time i see the Saudi TV mocking the US administration. <a href="https://t.co/8vPtU0txJ8">pic.twitter.com/8vPtU0txJ8</a>
— Asaad Sam Hanna (@AsaadHannaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AsaadHannaa/status/1513681354348716035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This isn't mocking, this is truth
— Σαπφώ_K 🍫 (@Q_sappho) <a href="https://twitter.com/Q_sappho/status/1513683088928387075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While he's begging them for oil, they mock him. 
 
So he resorts to burning our emergency oil reserves in a desperate attempt to keep control of Congress 
 
Which will just make the Saudis more powerful.
— Zugly747 (@zugly747) <a href="https://twitter.com/zugly747/status/1513707968189153284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The clip is an apparent reference to the various verbal gaffes done by US President Biden in the recent past.&nbsp;

Not so long ago, he mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake, however, was corrected by the White House.&nbsp;

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden. The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US.

"This isn't mocking, this is truth," a social media user wrote in the comment box of a funny video, which is based on United States President Joe Biden. The clip, which went viral online is from the Saudi Arabian TV show "Studio 22" which is a lot similar to "Saturday Night Live", a popular TV show in the US. In the show, Biden is portrayed as a forgetful old man who fell asleep at the podium. He was woken up by a woman, who is apparently playing the role of US Vice President Kamala Harris. ALSO READ | In $800 million military assistance, US gives heavier and high-power capabilities equipment to Ukraine In the one-minute clip, reel-life Biden can be seen moving about on the stage. He seems to be forgetting the name of the Russian President Vladimir Putin. After that, he falls asleep while speaking. Also, called VP his 'First Lady'. In the viral clip, he said, "Listen to me [forgets Putin's name]. I have a very important message for you. The message is…" [still don't remember Putin's name]. He starts again and then said that "we are going to talk about the crisis in Africa," only to be corrected by Harris again as earlier he said "the crisis in Spain." In the clip, Harris can be seen bringing Biden back to address Russia. In the end, the fake president wraps up the news conference by thanking everyone. He says, "Thank you very much. God bless you, and God bless…" He again dozes off in the arms of Harris. ALSO READ | This is how a NASA sample of lunar dust came to be sold at a public auction for $500,000 Watch the video here: For the first time i see the Saudi TV mocking the US administration. pic.twitter.com/8vPtU0txJ8 — Asaad Sam Hanna (@AsaadHannaa) April 12, 2022 × This isn't mocking, this is truth — Σαπφώ_K 🍫 (@Q_sappho) April 12, 2022 × While he's begging them for oil, they mock him. So he resorts to burning our emergency oil reserves in a desperate attempt to keep control of Congress Which will just make the Saudis more powerful. — Zugly747 (@zugly747) April 12, 2022 × The clip is an apparent reference to the various verbal gaffes done by US President Biden in the recent past. Not so long ago, he mistakenly referred to the former First Lady Michelle Obama as the former Vice President of the country. The mistake, however, was corrected by the White House.

Watch: Saudi TV show pokes fun at Joe Biden, shows him as sleepy and forgetful old man

Newly elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will likely travel to China and Suadi Arabia as his first official visit, local media reported.

The Express Tribune newspaper, quoting a Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader, said that Sharif will be first heading to Saudi and then Beijing.

Earlier in the day, China congratulated Sharif for becoming the 23rd prime minister of Pakistan, saying that Beijing looks forward to building a "high quality" US $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)”.

As soon as it was made clear that Imran Khan would lose the no-confidence motion moved by the joint opposition led by Sharif on April 10, the Chinese state media projected that the all-weather ties between the two countries would get better under him than during Khan's government.

Sharif had spoken highly of China-Pakistan ties in his victory speech.

He spoke about the special relations with China, calling the country "the most faithful friend and a partner through thick and thin".

"No matter what happens, no one can deprive the two countries of their friendship. This friendship will last till the day of judgment," he said and announced to speed up work on CPEC projects.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-threat-letter-to-china-to-kashmir-issue-key-points-from-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharifs-address-470294" hreflang="en">From threat letter to Kashmir issue: Key points from Pak PM Sharif's address</a>

Meanwhile, immediately after assuming the office, Sharif on Tuesday cancelled two weekly-off days in the government offices.

He also announced changes in office timings. It will now start operating at 8 am instead of 10 am, reports ARY news.

The prime minister also issued directions for the implementation of relief measures announced by him yesterday in the National Assembly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/man-with-corruption-cases-of-billions-of-rupees-imran-khan-on-shehbaz-sharif-470238" hreflang="en">Man with corruption cases of billions of rupees: Imran Khan on Shehbaz Sharif</a>

He has directed concerned authorities to ensure strict monitoring of Ramadan Bazars in order to ensure the provision of quality items to the people at reduced rates.

“No negligence in this regard will be tolerated,” the prime minister was quoted as saying.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pakistan has a new Prime Minister

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistan-has-a-new-prime-minister-470348/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Newly elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will likely travel to China and Suadi Arabia as his first official visit, local media reported. The Express Tribune newspaper, quoting a Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader, said that Sharif will be first heading to Saudi and then Beijing.

Newly elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will likely travel to China and Suadi Arabia as his first official visit, local media reported. The Express Tribune newspaper, quoting a Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) leader, said that Sharif will be first heading to Saudi and then Beijing. Earlier in the day, China congratulated Sharif for becoming the 23rd prime minister of Pakistan, saying that Beijing looks forward to building a "high quality" US $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)”. As soon as it was made clear that Imran Khan would lose the no-confidence motion moved by the joint opposition led by Sharif on April 10, the Chinese state media projected that the all-weather ties between the two countries would get better under him than during Khan's government. Sharif had spoken highly of China-Pakistan ties in his victory speech. He spoke about the special relations with China, calling the country "the most faithful friend and a partner through thick and thin". "No matter what happens, no one can deprive the two countries of their friendship. This friendship will last till the day of judgment," he said and announced to speed up work on CPEC projects. Also read | From threat letter to Kashmir issue: Key points from Pak PM Sharif's address Meanwhile, immediately after assuming the office, Sharif on Tuesday cancelled two weekly-off days in the government offices. He also announced changes in office timings. It will now start operating at 8 am instead of 10 am, reports ARY news. The prime minister also issued directions for the implementation of relief measures announced by him yesterday in the National Assembly. Also read | Man with corruption cases of billions of rupees: Imran Khan on Shehbaz Sharif He has directed concerned authorities to ensure strict monitoring of Ramadan Bazars in order to ensure the provision of quality items to the people at reduced rates. “No negligence in this regard will be tolerated,” the prime minister was quoted as saying. Watch | Gravitas: Pakistan has a new Prime Minister (With inputs from agencies)

Newly elected Pak PM Sharif to visit China, Saudi Arabia: Report

Last month, SoftBank Group withdrew from a US$34 billion project in Indonesia. After the withdrawal, Indonesia is looking to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, crowdfunding for the capital city in Borneo, reported by South China Morning Post last week.&nbsp;

SoftBank's exit was revealed by Luhut Pandjaitan, the Coordinating Minister of Maritime and Investment Affairs. The reports by SCMP mentioned that he cited a "decline in the share price" and Saudi Arabia's withdrawal of funds from the company's venture capital arm Vision Fund 2 as reasons.&nbsp;

But on the contrary, the company's board director Ken Miyauchi in a statement said: "Return of investment, whether from timing or the amount of ROI itself, is the main reason why we were backing out from the project."&nbsp;

The report mentioned that Luhut, who is the right hand of the country's President Joko Widodo, is putting in efforts to seek funds from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

"When I visited Saudi Arabia, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman asked to get into [the capital development project]. We are still discussing how big [Saudi Arabia’s] investments will be. We are continuing to have virtual meetings with his team," Luhut told reporters as quoted by SCMP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;A story of hope: Rare Sumatran rhino born in Indonesia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-story-of-hope-rare-sumatran-rhino-born-in-indonesia-466988/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Last month, SoftBank Group withdrew from a US$34 billion project in Indonesia. After the withdrawal, Indonesia is looking to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, crowdfunding for the capital city in Borneo, reported by South China Morning Post last week.

Last month, SoftBank Group withdrew from a US$34 billion project in Indonesia. After the withdrawal, Indonesia is looking to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, crowdfunding for the capital city in Borneo, reported by South China Morning Post last week. SoftBank's exit was revealed by Luhut Pandjaitan, the Coordinating Minister of Maritime and Investment Affairs. The reports by SCMP mentioned that he cited a "decline in the share price" and Saudi Arabia's withdrawal of funds from the company's venture capital arm Vision Fund 2 as reasons. But on the contrary, the company's board director Ken Miyauchi in a statement said: "Return of investment, whether from timing or the amount of ROI itself, is the main reason why we were backing out from the project." The report mentioned that Luhut, who is the right hand of the country's President Joko Widodo, is putting in efforts to seek funds from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. "When I visited Saudi Arabia, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman asked to get into [the capital development project]. We are still discussing how big [Saudi Arabia’s] investments will be. We are continuing to have virtual meetings with his team," Luhut told reporters as quoted by SCMP. Watch | A story of hope: Rare Sumatran rhino born in Indonesia (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia to seek funds from Saudi Arabia, UAE and crowdfunding after SoftBank's withdrawal

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;said Saturday it will permit one&nbsp;million&nbsp;Muslims from inside and outside the country to participate in this&nbsp;year's&nbsp;hajj, a sharp uptick after pandemic restrictions forced two years of drastically pared-down pilgrimages.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;ministry "has authorised one&nbsp;million&nbsp;pilgrims, both foreign and domestic, to perform the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;this&nbsp;year," it said in a&nbsp;statement.&nbsp;

One of the five pillars of Islam, the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;must be undertaken by all Muslims with the means at least once in their lives. Usually one of the world's largest religious gatherings, about 2.5&nbsp;million&nbsp;people took part in 2019.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-yoga-committee-takes-part-in-100-days-countdown-campaign-to-international-day-of-yoga-2022-468036">Saudi Yoga Committee takes part in 100 days countdown campaign to International Day of Yoga 2022</a>

But after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020,&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;authorities allowed only 1,000&nbsp;pilgrims&nbsp;to participate.&nbsp;

The following&nbsp;year, they upped the total to 60,000 fully vaccinated residents chosen through a lottery.&nbsp;

The restrictions have stoked resentment among Muslims abroad who were barred. Saturday's announcement said this&nbsp;year's&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;would be limited to vaccinated&nbsp;pilgrims&nbsp;under age 65.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia becomes China's top crude oil supplier again as Russian imports fall

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Those coming from outside&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;will be required to submit a negative Covid-19 PCR result from a test taken within 72 hours of travel.&nbsp;

The government wants to ensure&nbsp;pilgrims' safety "while ensuring that the maximum number of Muslims worldwide can perform the&nbsp;hajj", Saturday's&nbsp;statement&nbsp;said.

Also&nbsp;&nbsp;read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sends-anti-missile-interceptors-to-saudi-arabia-fulfills-urgent-request-464250">U.S. sends anti-missile interceptors to Saudi Arabia, fulfills urgent request</a>

The&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;consists of a series of religious rites that are completed over five days in Islam's holiest city, Mecca, and surrounding areas of western&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia.&nbsp;

Hosting the&nbsp;hajj&nbsp;is a matter of prestige for&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;rulers, as the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is the most powerful source of their political legitimacy.

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it will permit one million Muslims from inside and outside the country to participate in this year's hajj, a sharp uptick after pandemic restrictions forced two years of drastically pared-down pilgrimages.

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it will permit one million Muslims from inside and outside the country to participate in this year's hajj, a sharp uptick after pandemic restrictions forced two years of drastically pared-down pilgrimages. The hajj ministry "has authorised one million pilgrims, both foreign and domestic, to perform the hajj this year," it said in a statement. One of the five pillars of Islam, the hajj must be undertaken by all Muslims with the means at least once in their lives. Usually one of the world's largest religious gatherings, about 2.5 million people took part in 2019. Also read | Saudi Yoga Committee takes part in 100 days countdown campaign to International Day of Yoga 2022 But after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Saudi authorities allowed only 1,000 pilgrims to participate. The following year, they upped the total to 60,000 fully vaccinated residents chosen through a lottery. The restrictions have stoked resentment among Muslims abroad who were barred. Saturday's announcement said this year's hajj would be limited to vaccinated pilgrims under age 65. Watch | Saudi Arabia becomes China's top crude oil supplier again as Russian imports fall Those coming from outside Saudi Arabia will be required to submit a negative Covid-19 PCR result from a test taken within 72 hours of travel. The government wants to ensure pilgrims' safety "while ensuring that the maximum number of Muslims worldwide can perform the hajj", Saturday's statement said. Also read | U.S. sends anti-missile interceptors to Saudi Arabia, fulfills urgent request The hajj 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. Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for Saudi rulers, as the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is the most powerful source of their political legitimacy.

Saudi Arabia to allow one million hajj pilgrims this year

According to the reports, Saudi Arabia will allow up to 1 million people to join the hajj pilgrimage this year and this is extremely welcoming for non-domestic pilgrims after two years of tight covid-19 restrictions.

Saudi Arabia opens hajj to one million pilgrims this year

Turkey is planning to halt the Khashoggi murder trial and hand the case over to Saudi Arabia. After years of vocal criticism against Riyadh, why is Erdogan making this u-turn? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Turkey to halt Khashoggi murder trial

The warring sides in Yemen's seven-year conflict have for the first time in years agreed a nationwide truce, which would also allow fuel imports into Houthi-held areas and some flights operating from Sanaa airport, the United Nations envoy said on Friday.

The UN-brokered deal between a Saudi-led coalition and the Houthi group aligned with Iran is the most significant step yet towards ending a conflict that has killed tens of thousands and pushed millions into hunger. The last coordinated cessation of hostilities nationwide was during peace talks in 2016.

UN&nbsp;special envoy Hans Grundberg said the two-month truce would come into effect on Saturday and could be renewed with consent of the parties.

"The parties accepted to halt all offensive military air, ground and maritime operations inside Yemen and across its borders; they also agreed for fuel ships to enter into Hodeidah ports and commercial flights to operate in and out of Sanaa airport to predetermined destinations in the region," he said in a statement.

The UN and US&nbsp;envoys had been trying since last year to engineer a permanent ceasefire needed to revive political negotiations stalled since late 2018 to end the conflict.

It is widely seen as a proxy war between Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia and Shi'ite Iran and Riyadh has struggled to exit the conflict.

The Saudi-backed Yemeni government, which the Houthis ousted from the capital, Sanaa, in late 2014, said earlier it would facilitate arrangements for release of prisoners, opening Sanaa airport and allowing fuel vessels into Houthi-held Hodeidah port.

"We immediately announce the release of the first two fuel ships through Hodeidah port," Foreign Minister Ahmed Bin Mubarak said on Twitter.

Houthi chief negotiator Mohammed Abdulsalam welcomed the truce. Another senior Houthi official, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, said on Twitter its "credibility would be in implementation".

The Saudi-led coalition, which intervened in March 2015 against the Houthis, controls Yemen's seas and air space.

The warring parties are also discussing a prisoner swap under which hundreds from both sides would be freed, including 16 Saudis, three Sudanese and a brother of Yemeni President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi.

The last major prisoner swap, involving around 1,000 detainees, took place in 2020 as part of confidence-building steps agreed at the last peace talks held in December 2018. 
&nbsp;

The warring sides in Yemen's seven-year conflict have for the first time in years agreed a nationwide truce, which would also allow fuel imports into Houthi-held areas and some flights operating from Sanaa airport, the United Nations envoy said on Friday.

The warring sides in Yemen's seven-year conflict have for the first time in years agreed a nationwide truce, which would also allow fuel imports into Houthi-held areas and some flights operating from Sanaa airport, the United Nations envoy said on Friday. The UN-brokered deal between a Saudi-led coalition and the Houthi group aligned with Iran is the most significant step yet towards ending a conflict that has killed tens of thousands and pushed millions into hunger. The last coordinated cessation of hostilities nationwide was during peace talks in 2016. UN special envoy Hans Grundberg said the two-month truce would come into effect on Saturday and could be renewed with consent of the parties. "The parties accepted to halt all offensive military air, ground and maritime operations inside Yemen and across its borders; they also agreed for fuel ships to enter into Hodeidah ports and commercial flights to operate in and out of Sanaa airport to predetermined destinations in the region," he said in a statement. The UN and US envoys had been trying since last year to engineer a permanent ceasefire needed to revive political negotiations stalled since late 2018 to end the conflict. It is widely seen as a proxy war between Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia and Shi'ite Iran and Riyadh has struggled to exit the conflict. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government, which the Houthis ousted from the capital, Sanaa, in late 2014, said earlier it would facilitate arrangements for release of prisoners, opening Sanaa airport and allowing fuel vessels into Houthi-held Hodeidah port. "We immediately announce the release of the first two fuel ships through Hodeidah port," Foreign Minister Ahmed Bin Mubarak said on Twitter. Houthi chief negotiator Mohammed Abdulsalam welcomed the truce. Another senior Houthi official, Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, said on Twitter its "credibility would be in implementation". The Saudi-led coalition, which intervened in March 2015 against the Houthis, controls Yemen's seas and air space. The warring parties are also discussing a prisoner swap under which hundreds from both sides would be freed, including 16 Saudis, three Sudanese and a brother of Yemeni President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi. The last major prisoner swap, involving around 1,000 detainees, took place in 2020 as part of confidence-building steps agreed at the last peace talks held in December 2018.

Yemen's warring parties agree two-month truce in major breakthrough

Houthi rebels have struck a fuel depot in Jeddah. Despite the attack, Formula Grand Prix went ahead. Meanwhile, Saudi launched counter-strike on rebels.

Rebels strike fuel depot in Jeddah: Formula Grand Prix to go ahead despite attack

Watch The West Asia Post with Ghadi Francis: - The return of Bashar Al Assad - UAE helps Assad return to Arab fold - Saudi Arabia gets US military help - Yemen's children deprived of life-saving surgeries

The West Asia Post: The return of Bashar Al Assad

Substitute Kaoru Mitoma scored twice in the final few minutes to give Japan a 2-0 win over Australia at a rain-soaked Olympic Stadium on Thursday and send his country through to seventh successive edition of the World Cup finals.

Japan's first victory over the Socceroos in Australia since 1998 also secured Saudi Arabia's passage to Qatar and condemned Australia to a tricky path through two playoffs if they are also to make the finals for the fifth time in a row.

An entertaining qualifier looked to be heading towards a scoreless stalemate in the 89th minute when the ball was cut the ball back from the byline and Mitoma pounced to fire it past Australia goalkeeper Mat Ryan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-receive-declarations-of-interest-from-britain-ireland-russia-turkey-to-host-euro-2028-465143">UEFA receive declarations of interest from Britain-Ireland, Russia, Turkey to host Euro 2028</a>

Winger Mitoma put the result beyond doubt five minutes later when he skipped through the tiring Australia defence and found the net again under Ryan's despairing dive.

With Wataru Endo running midfield and Takumi Minamino a constant threat up front, Japan were well worth the win against an Australia side missing almost an entire team of regulars because of COVID infections and injury.

Minamino hit the woodwork twice inside five minutes towards the end of the opening half, the first from a rocket of a header that crashed down off bar and post but stayed out of the goal.

The Socceroos also had their chances -- most notably a Miki Yamane own goal that was ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper -- but gave away too much possession in midfield and struggled to deal with Japan's pace on the break.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-go-down-to-bahrain-1-2-in-international-friendly-465111">India go down to Bahrain 1-2 in international friendly</a>

Forward Ajdin Hrustic, the only Australian with the skill to match the Japanese, fashioned a couple of chances at the start of the second half but his long-range free-kick was parried away and he screwed a shot wide.

Japan looked like making the breakthrough in the 80th minute when Hidemasa Morita`s pass found Minamino on the six-yard line but Trent Sainsbury stood tall to clear the shot off the line.

Junya Ito had another chance saved seven minutes later, leaving the way clear for Mitoma to perform his late heroics.

Substitute Kaoru Mitoma scored twice in the final few minutes to give Japan a 2-0 win over Australia at a rain-soaked Olympic Stadium on Thursday and send his country through to seventh successive edition of the World Cup finals.

Substitute Kaoru Mitoma scored twice in the final few minutes to give Japan a 2-0 win over Australia at a rain-soaked Olympic Stadium on Thursday and send his country through to seventh successive edition of the World Cup finals. Japan's first victory over the Socceroos in Australia since 1998 also secured Saudi Arabia's passage to Qatar and condemned Australia to a tricky path through two playoffs if they are also to make the finals for the fifth time in a row. An entertaining qualifier looked to be heading towards a scoreless stalemate in the 89th minute when the ball was cut the ball back from the byline and Mitoma pounced to fire it past Australia goalkeeper Mat Ryan. ALSO READ: UEFA receive declarations of interest from Britain-Ireland, Russia, Turkey to host Euro 2028 Winger Mitoma put the result beyond doubt five minutes later when he skipped through the tiring Australia defence and found the net again under Ryan's despairing dive. With Wataru Endo running midfield and Takumi Minamino a constant threat up front, Japan were well worth the win against an Australia side missing almost an entire team of regulars because of COVID infections and injury. Minamino hit the woodwork twice inside five minutes towards the end of the opening half, the first from a rocket of a header that crashed down off bar and post but stayed out of the goal. The Socceroos also had their chances -- most notably a Miki Yamane own goal that was ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper -- but gave away too much possession in midfield and struggled to deal with Japan's pace on the break. ALSO READ: India go down to Bahrain 1-2 in international friendly Forward Ajdin Hrustic, the only Australian with the skill to match the Japanese, fashioned a couple of chances at the start of the second half but his long-range free-kick was parried away and he screwed a shot wide. Japan looked like making the breakthrough in the 80th minute when Hidemasa Morita`s pass found Minamino on the six-yard line but Trent Sainsbury stood tall to clear the shot off the line. Junya Ito had another chance saved seven minutes later, leaving the way clear for Mitoma to perform his late heroics.

Substitute Kaoru Mitoma's brace sends Japan, Saudi Arabia to World Cup finals

Saudi Arabia has become China's top crude supplier again as oil supplies from the US fall by 45%. Earlier, Russia was China's top crude oil supplier.

Saudi Arabia becomes China's top crude oil supplier again as Russian imports fall

Amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, and a hike in oil prices across the globe, Saudi Aramco's profits have also soared. It is now hiking oil investments.

Saudi Arabia hikes oil investments after profits soar due to rise in global oil prices

The United States government transferred a number of Patriot antimissile interceptors to Saudi Arabia in order to fulfil an urgent request from Riyadh amid tensions between the two nations.<o:p></o:p>

According to Washington Street Journal, the US officials said that the emergency request from Saudi Arabia was made in order to bolster their defensive munitions that is extremely important for them to fend off drone and missile attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-us-president-biden-to-visit-poland-on-europe-trip-this-week-464181">Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week</a>

Saudi military has been requesting for the interceptors since last year and according to the report, they were running low on supplies. As a result, the request became a bone of contention between Riyadh and the Biden administration.

However, with the transfer of the interceptors, it is being reported that the two nations may return to amicable terms and it will be a big help for the Saudi military.<o:p></o:p>

The interceptors and other munitions sent to Saudi Arabia were taken from U.S. stockpiles elsewhere in the Middle East, one of the officials said according to the WSJ report.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-senior-russian-naval-officer-killed-in-mariupol-officials-confirm-death-464156">Senior Russian naval officer killed in Mariupol, officials confirm death</a>

The US government hopes that the arms transfer will lead to Saudi Arabia pumping more oil in order to mitigate the soaring crude prices and rebuild the trade relations between the two countries.<o:p></o:p>

Earlier, Biden has also criticized Saudi Arabia for their war in Yemen and it was speculated that the US are looking to cut off the flow of some weapons Riyadh could use to target Houthis.

The president also reversed a move by Donald Trump that put the Houthis on the U.S.’s official list of global terrorist groups, a move that Saudi leaders saw as a support for the Yemeni leaders.

<o:p></o:p>

Watch |&nbsp;Biden adds Poland to Europe tour amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-adds-poland-to-europe-tour-amid-the-ongoing-russian-invasion-of-ukraine-464223/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States government transferred a number of Patriot antimissile interceptors to Saudi Arabia in order to fulfil an urgent request from Riyadh amid tensions between the two nations.

The United States government transferred a number of Patriot antimissile interceptors to Saudi Arabia in order to fulfil an urgent request from Riyadh amid tensions between the two nations. According to Washington Street Journal, the US officials said that the emergency request from Saudi Arabia was made in order to bolster their defensive munitions that is extremely important for them to fend off drone and missile attacks by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: US President Biden to visit Poland this week Saudi military has been requesting for the interceptors since last year and according to the report, they were running low on supplies. As a result, the request became a bone of contention between Riyadh and the Biden administration. However, with the transfer of the interceptors, it is being reported that the two nations may return to amicable terms and it will be a big help for the Saudi military. The interceptors and other munitions sent to Saudi Arabia were taken from U.S. stockpiles elsewhere in the Middle East, one of the officials said according to the WSJ report. Also read | Senior Russian naval officer killed in Mariupol, officials confirm death The US government hopes that the arms transfer will lead to Saudi Arabia pumping more oil in order to mitigate the soaring crude prices and rebuild the trade relations between the two countries. Earlier, Biden has also criticized Saudi Arabia for their war in Yemen and it was speculated that the US are looking to cut off the flow of some weapons Riyadh could use to target Houthis. The president also reversed a move by Donald Trump that put the Houthis on the U.S.’s official list of global terrorist groups, a move that Saudi leaders saw as a support for the Yemeni leaders. Watch | Biden adds Poland to Europe tour amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

U.S. sends anti-missile interceptors to Saudi Arabia, fulfills urgent request

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group fired missiles and drones at Saudi energy and water desalination facilities, which oil firm Saudi Aramco said on Sunday (March 20) did not impact supplies or cause casualties.

Yehia Sarie, a spokesman for Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis, said the rebels had launched “a wide and large military operation into the depth of Saudi Arabia” on Sunday, firing ballistic missiles and bomb-laden drones toward Saudi Aramco facilities and other “sensitive targets” in the country.

He described the assault as retaliation for the Saudi-led “aggression and blockade” that has turned much of Yemen into a wasteland.

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The salvo also came as Saudi Arabia’s state-backed oil giant Aramco announced that its profits surged 124 per cent&nbsp;in 2021 to $110 billion, a jump fueled by renewed anxieties about global supply shortages and soaring oil prices.

Aramco, also known as the Saudi Arabian Oil Co., released its earnings report after weeks of intense volatility in energy markets triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Punitive sanctions on Russia, among the world’s largest exporters of crude and petroleum products, have added turmoil to an already-tight energy market.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-are-the-groups-fighting-in-yemens-war-439976">Also see |&nbsp;Here are the groups fighting in Yemen's war</a>

Aramco CEO Amin Nasser told a call about the company's earnings on Sunday: "There was ... a number of attacks early in the morning at our facilities. And thankfully there were no injuries or fatalities and no impact to the company's supply to its customers."

The international oil benchmark Brent crude hovered over $107 on Sunday after nearly touching a peak of $140 earlier this month. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have so far resisted Western appeals to increase oil production to offset the loss of Russian oil as gasoline prices skyrocket.

Earlier this week, the Houthis rejected an invitation from the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council to attend talks on the Yemen conflict, to be held in Riyadh from March 29.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-that-you-need-to-know-about-saudi-aramco-the-oil-colossus-259731">Also see |&nbsp;All that you need to know about Saudi Aramco, the oil colossus</a>

The Saudi-based Gulf Cooperation Council said it invited Yemen’s warring sides for talks in Riyadh aimed at ending the war, an offer dismissed out of hand by the Houthis, who demanded that negotiations take place in a “neutral” country.

Peace talks have floundered since the Houthis have tried to capture oil-rich Marib, one of the last remaining strongholds of the Saudi-backed Yemeni government in the country’s north.

Saudi Arabia is leading a military coalition in Yemen in support of the internationally recognized government, which has been engaged in a bloody conflict against the Huthis since mid-2014.

The war has cost hundreds of thousands of lives, directly or indirectly, and displaced millions, in what the United Nations has called the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

On Wednesday, the UN voiced disappointment after a donors' conference raised $1.3 billion, far short of the $4.27 billion target.

Huthi rebels often target airports and oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest oil exporters, against the backdrop of the kingdom's leadership of the military coalition against them.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group fired missiles and drones at Saudi energy and water desalination facilities, which oil firm Saudi Aramco said on Sunday (March 20) did not impact supplies or cause casualties.

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group fired missiles and drones at Saudi energy and water desalination facilities, which oil firm Saudi Aramco said on Sunday (March 20) did not impact supplies or cause casualties. Yehia Sarie, a spokesman for Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis, said the rebels had launched “a wide and large military operation into the depth of Saudi Arabia” on Sunday, firing ballistic missiles and bomb-laden drones toward Saudi Aramco facilities and other “sensitive targets” in the country. He described the assault as retaliation for the Saudi-led “aggression and blockade” that has turned much of Yemen into a wasteland. The salvo also came as Saudi Arabia’s state-backed oil giant Aramco announced that its profits surged 124 per cent in 2021 to $110 billion, a jump fueled by renewed anxieties about global supply shortages and soaring oil prices. Aramco, also known as the Saudi Arabian Oil Co., released its earnings report after weeks of intense volatility in energy markets triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Punitive sanctions on Russia, among the world’s largest exporters of crude and petroleum products, have added turmoil to an already-tight energy market. Also see | Here are the groups fighting in Yemen's war Aramco CEO Amin Nasser told a call about the company's earnings on Sunday: "There was ... a number of attacks early in the morning at our facilities. And thankfully there were no injuries or fatalities and no impact to the company's supply to its customers." The international oil benchmark Brent crude hovered over $107 on Sunday after nearly touching a peak of $140 earlier this month. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have so far resisted Western appeals to increase oil production to offset the loss of Russian oil as gasoline prices skyrocket. Earlier this week, the Houthis rejected an invitation from the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council to attend talks on the Yemen conflict, to be held in Riyadh from March 29. Also see | All that you need to know about Saudi Aramco, the oil colossus The Saudi-based Gulf Cooperation Council said it invited Yemen’s warring sides for talks in Riyadh aimed at ending the war, an offer dismissed out of hand by the Houthis, who demanded that negotiations take place in a “neutral” country. Peace talks have floundered since the Houthis have tried to capture oil-rich Marib, one of the last remaining strongholds of the Saudi-backed Yemeni government in the country’s north. Saudi Arabia is leading a military coalition in Yemen in support of the internationally recognized government, which has been engaged in a bloody conflict against the Huthis since mid-2014. The war has cost hundreds of thousands of lives, directly or indirectly, and displaced millions, in what the United Nations has called the world's worst humanitarian crisis. On Wednesday, the UN voiced disappointment after a donors' conference raised $1.3 billion, far short of the $4.27 billion target. Huthi rebels often target airports and oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest oil exporters, against the backdrop of the kingdom's leadership of the military coalition against them. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group claims responsibility for drone attack on Saudi Arabia

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived on Tuesday in Dhaka on a two-day visit to Bangladesh. Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen received Prince Faisal at Shahjalal International Airport.

Saudi Foreign Minister arrives in Bangladesh

China's Xi Jinping is reportedly planning a trip to Saudi Arabia later this year. The visit comes amid strained relations between Riyadh and Washington. What do both sides stand to gain from this partnership? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Xi Jinping to visit Saudi Arabia?

What did Russian President Vladimir Putin think when he ordered his troops into Ukraine? Ray Charles' 'Georgia on mind’ must have been humming in his head.

A slightly altered version, ‘Palestine on my mind,’ was undoubtedly on Egyptian athlete Ali Farag's mind when he condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Sunday as he won Britain’s Optacia squash championship.

"We’ve never been allowed to speak about politics in sports, but all of a sudden, it’s allowed. I hope people look at oppression everywhere around the world. Palestinians have been going through that for the past 74 years,” Mr. Farag, the world’s number two player, said in his acceptance remarks.

It was Yemen that New York Times sports reporter Tariq Panja thought of when he tweeted as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson prepared to visit Saudi Arabia. Mr. Johnson hopes to persuade the kingdom to increase its oil production to compensate for a loss of access to Russian energy due to the Ukraine crisis.

“We are now in a situation where the British PM is heading over to Saudi to plead for oil from an autocrat that is dropping bombs on his neighbour because a different autocrat is dropping bombs on his neighbour,” Mr. Panja said.

Invariably, comparisons hink. To be sure, unlike Russia, Saudi Arabia was invited by the internationally recognised government of Yemen even if that was more of a formality and changes little on the ground while Israel’s conquest of the West Bank was not, like Ukraine, an unprovoked attack.

Nevertheless, Messrs. Farag and Panja make a valid point.&nbsp;

Like the 1990 Kuwaiti invasion of Iraq, Ukraine has provoked widespread international condemnation.

Yet, the international community’s response to Saudi Arabia's seven-year-old invasion of Yemen, sparking one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, and Israel’s 55-year long occupation of the West Bank’s, the world’s longest of neighboring lands, as well as its blockade of Gaza, has been far more muted, if not supportive.

Messrs. Farag and Panja’s point takes of added relevance given the fact that Mr. Putin has given a new lease on life to those that identify with the construct of the values of the West.

Yet, Saudi Arabia and Israel, just like Poland, Hungary, and Turkey, troubled democracies with tarnished rights records that nonetheless support Ukraine, show that the application of those principles and values will inevitably be spotty and contradictory and involve uncomfortable and glaring compromises.

None of that legitimises the actions of those who opportunistically are left off the hook.

Mr. Panja correctly highlights the irony that autocratic Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who ordered the invasion of Yemen shortly after coming to office in 2015, is being asked to help clean up a mess created by an invasion launched by another autocrat Mr. Putin.

To drive home the point of messy and questionable compromises, Saudi Arabia executed days before Mr. Johnson’s expected arrival 81 people convicted of a variety of crimes, including murder and membership of a militant group. Those executed also included a fair number of Shiite activists. It was the largest mass execution in the kingdom’s modern history.

Similarly, Mr. Farag raised a valid point even if his statement was problematic. Rather than referring to continuous violations of international law associated with Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and blockade of Gaza, Mr. Farag equated the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 with the Russian invasion. In doing so, he questioned Israel’s right to exist rather than its continued control of lands designated as occupied and Palestinian in the international community's mind.

Mr. Farag’s statement and the refusal by international sports associations, national leagues, clubs, and event organizers to allow Russian and Belarus athletes and teams to compete under their national flags laid bare hypocrisy and deliberately maintained fictions in the sports world.

Few will take issue with the rejection, yet it blasts a crater into the sports world’s fictional insistence that sport and politics are separate and never should the two intertwine. If anything, Ukraine put that fiction to bed.

Mr. Farag noted as much when he said that his statement was possible because the ban on athletes expressing themselves politically during sporting events was effectively lifted when it comes to Ukraine.

That leaves the question of why Ukraine but not Yemen or Palestine or, for that matter, the brutal repression of Turkic Muslims in China.

It comes as little surprise then that Mr. Putin may hum ‘Georgia, on my mind’ while others hum ‘Yemen and Palestine on my mind.’

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

What did Russian President Vladimir Putin think when he ordered his troops into Ukraine? Ray Charles' 'Georgia on mind’ must have been humming in his head. A slightly altered version, ‘Palestine on my mind,’ was undoubtedly on Egyptian athlete Ali Farag's mind when he condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Sunday as he won Britain’s Optacia squash championship.

What did Russian President Vladimir Putin think when he ordered his troops into Ukraine? Ray Charles' 'Georgia on mind’ must have been humming in his head. A slightly altered version, ‘Palestine on my mind,’ was undoubtedly on Egyptian athlete Ali Farag's mind when he condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Sunday as he won Britain’s Optacia squash championship. "We’ve never been allowed to speak about politics in sports, but all of a sudden, it’s allowed. I hope people look at oppression everywhere around the world. Palestinians have been going through that for the past 74 years,” Mr. Farag, the world’s number two player, said in his acceptance remarks. It was Yemen that New York Times sports reporter Tariq Panja thought of when he tweeted as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson prepared to visit Saudi Arabia. Mr. Johnson hopes to persuade the kingdom to increase its oil production to compensate for a loss of access to Russian energy due to the Ukraine crisis. “We are now in a situation where the British PM is heading over to Saudi to plead for oil from an autocrat that is dropping bombs on his neighbour because a different autocrat is dropping bombs on his neighbour,” Mr. Panja said. Invariably, comparisons hink. To be sure, unlike Russia, Saudi Arabia was invited by the internationally recognised government of Yemen even if that was more of a formality and changes little on the ground while Israel’s conquest of the West Bank was not, like Ukraine, an unprovoked attack. Nevertheless, Messrs. Farag and Panja make a valid point. Like the 1990 Kuwaiti invasion of Iraq, Ukraine has provoked widespread international condemnation. Yet, the international community’s response to Saudi Arabia's seven-year-old invasion of Yemen, sparking one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, and Israel’s 55-year long occupation of the West Bank’s, the world’s longest of neighboring lands, as well as its blockade of Gaza, has been far more muted, if not supportive. Messrs. Farag and Panja’s point takes of added relevance given the fact that Mr. Putin has given a new lease on life to those that identify with the construct of the values of the West. Yet, Saudi Arabia and Israel, just like Poland, Hungary, and Turkey, troubled democracies with tarnished rights records that nonetheless support Ukraine, show that the application of those principles and values will inevitably be spotty and contradictory and involve uncomfortable and glaring compromises. None of that legitimises the actions of those who opportunistically are left off the hook. Mr. Panja correctly highlights the irony that autocratic Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who ordered the invasion of Yemen shortly after coming to office in 2015, is being asked to help clean up a mess created by an invasion launched by another autocrat Mr. Putin. To drive home the point of messy and questionable compromises, Saudi Arabia executed days before Mr. Johnson’s expected arrival 81 people convicted of a variety of crimes, including murder and membership of a militant group. Those executed also included a fair number of Shiite activists. It was the largest mass execution in the kingdom’s modern history. Similarly, Mr. Farag raised a valid point even if his statement was problematic. Rather than referring to continuous violations of international law associated with Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and blockade of Gaza, Mr. Farag equated the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 with the Russian invasion. In doing so, he questioned Israel’s right to exist rather than its continued control of lands designated as occupied and Palestinian in the international community's mind. Mr. Farag’s statement and the refusal by international sports associations, national leagues, clubs, and event organizers to allow Russian and Belarus athletes and teams to compete under their national flags laid bare hypocrisy and deliberately maintained fictions in the sports world. Few will take issue with the rejection, yet it blasts a crater into the sports world’s fictional insistence that sport and politics are separate and never should the two intertwine. If anything, Ukraine put that fiction to bed. Mr. Farag noted as much when he said that his statement was possible because the ban on athletes expressing themselves politically during sporting events was effectively lifted when it comes to Ukraine. That leaves the question of why Ukraine but not Yemen or Palestine or, for that matter, the brutal repression of Turkic Muslims in China. It comes as little surprise then that Mr. Putin may hum ‘Georgia, on my mind’ while others hum ‘Yemen and Palestine on my mind.’ (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Putin hums ‘Georgia on my mind’

Saudi Arabia executed 81 men in one day in the largest mass execution in recent memory. Out of 81, 73 were Saudi nationals, 7 were Yemenis and 1 Syrian.

Largest mass execution in recent memory: Saudi Arabia executes 81 men in one day

Iraq&nbsp;will&nbsp;host&nbsp;another&nbsp;round&nbsp;of&nbsp;talks&nbsp;between regional foes&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;on Wednesday, the foreign&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;in Baghdad said on Saturday, without giving further details.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein revealed the development during remarks at a diplomatic forum in Antalya on Turkey's southern coast cited by local media. A foreign&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;spokesman confirmed the comments to Reuters.

The&nbsp;talks&nbsp;will be the fourth&nbsp;round&nbsp;hosted by Baghdad between officials from its two neighbours and mutual adversaries, according to local media.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-deal-eu-says-pause-in-vienna-talks-needed-due-to-external-factors-pointing-at-russia-461363">Iran nuclear deal: EU says 'pause' in Vienna talks needed due to 'external factors' pointing at Russia</a>

The&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;ministry&nbsp;did not respond to request for comment.

Diplomats hope the opening of direct channels between&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;will signal an easing of tensions across the Middle East after years of&nbsp;hostilities that have brought the region close to a full-scale conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-blogger-raif-badawi-released-after-10-years-in-prison-461523">Saudi blogger Raif Badawi released after 10 years in prison</a>

Talks&nbsp;to revive the 2015&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;nuclear deal on Friday faced the prospect of collapse after a last-minute Russian demand forced world powers to pause negotiations for an undetermined time despite having a largely completed text.

Negotiators have reached the final stages of 11 months of discussions to restore the deal, which lifted sanctions on&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;in return for curbs on its nuclear programme, long seen by the West as a cover for developing atomic bombs.

Iraq will host another round of talks between regional foes Iran and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, the foreign ministry in Baghdad said on Saturday, without giving further details.

Iraq will host another round of talks between regional foes Iran and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, the foreign ministry in Baghdad said on Saturday, without giving further details. Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein revealed the development during remarks at a diplomatic forum in Antalya on Turkey's southern coast cited by local media. A foreign ministry spokesman confirmed the comments to Reuters. The talks will be the fourth round hosted by Baghdad between officials from its two neighbours and mutual adversaries, according to local media. Also read | Iran nuclear deal: EU says 'pause' in Vienna talks needed due to 'external factors' pointing at Russia The Saudi foreign ministry did not respond to request for comment. Diplomats hope the opening of direct channels between Iran and Saudi Arabia will signal an easing of tensions across the Middle East after years of hostilities that have brought the region close to a full-scale conflict. Also read | Saudi blogger Raif Badawi released after 10 years in prison Talks to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal on Friday faced the prospect of collapse after a last-minute Russian demand forced world powers to pause negotiations for an undetermined time despite having a largely completed text. Negotiators have reached the final stages of 11 months of discussions to restore the deal, which lifted sanctions on Iran in return for curbs on its nuclear programme, long seen by the West as a cover for developing atomic bombs.

Iraq to host another round of Iran-Saudi Arabia talks: Ministry

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it executed 81 people in one day on a variety of terrorism-related offences, exceeding the total number of executions in the kingdom in 2021.&nbsp;

The official Saudi Press Agency said those convicted were linked to "the Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, the Huthis and other terrorist organisations", adding they were plotting attacks on vital places and smuggling weapons into the country.

Meanwhile, freed blogger and human rights activist Raif Badawi was imposed with a 10-year travel ban. The blogger has become a symbol of freedom and expression around the world.

Badawi, now 38, who was arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia in 2012 on charges of "insulting Islam", was released Friday.

An interior ministry official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP on Saturday: "The sentence handed down to Raif was 10 years in prison followed by a travel ban for the same length of time. The court ruling holds up and is final."

"Therefore, he cannot leave the kingdom for another 10 years unless a (royal) pardon is issued," the official said.

At the end of 2014, Badawi was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 50 lashes a week for 20 weeks. 
His first flogging in the kingdom's Jeddah square shocked the world and was described by the United Nations as&nbsp; 
"cruel and inhuman". After the outcry, he was not lashed again.

On Friday, Badawi's wife Ensaf Haidar, who lives in Canada with their three children, told AFP: "Raif called me. He is free."&nbsp;

It was later confirmed by a Saudi security official, but details of Badawi's release were not revealed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it executed 81 people in one day on a variety of terrorism-related offences, exceeding the total number of executions in the kingdom in 2021.

Saudi Arabia said Saturday it executed 81 people in one day on a variety of terrorism-related offences, exceeding the total number of executions in the kingdom in 2021. The official Saudi Press Agency said those convicted were linked to "the Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, the Huthis and other terrorist organisations", adding they were plotting attacks on vital places and smuggling weapons into the country. Meanwhile, freed blogger and human rights activist Raif Badawi was imposed with a 10-year travel ban. The blogger has become a symbol of freedom and expression around the world. Badawi, now 38, who was arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia in 2012 on charges of "insulting Islam", was released Friday. An interior ministry official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP on Saturday: "The sentence handed down to Raif was 10 years in prison followed by a travel ban for the same length of time. The court ruling holds up and is final." "Therefore, he cannot leave the kingdom for another 10 years unless a (royal) pardon is issued," the official said. At the end of 2014, Badawi was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 50 lashes a week for 20 weeks. His first flogging in the kingdom's Jeddah square shocked the world and was described by the United Nations as "cruel and inhuman". After the outcry, he was not lashed again. On Friday, Badawi's wife Ensaf Haidar, who lives in Canada with their three children, told AFP: "Raif called me. He is free." It was later confirmed by a Saudi security official, but details of Badawi's release were not revealed. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia executes more people in 1 day than it did in entire 2021

After&nbsp;10&nbsp;years&nbsp;in&nbsp;prison&nbsp;for "insulting Islam,"&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;blogger&nbsp;and human rights activist&nbsp;Raif&nbsp;Badawi, who has become a symbol of freedom of expression around the world, was&nbsp;released&nbsp;on Friday.

"Raif&nbsp;called me. He is free," his wife Ensaf Haidar, who lives in Canada with their three children and had been fiercely advocating for his release, told AFP.&nbsp;

Badawi's release was also confirmed by a&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;security official, who said on condition of anonymity that "he was&nbsp;released&nbsp;today."

"I jumped when I found out. I couldn't believe it. I can't wait to see my dad, I'm so excited," one of his daughters, Nawja&nbsp;Badawi, 18, told AFP.

The winner of the Reporters Without Borders prize for press freedom was arrested and detained in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia in 2012 on charges of "insulting Islam."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/el-salvador-orders-arrest-of-former-president-over-killing-of-six-jesuits-in-civil-war-461506">El Salvador orders arrest of former president over killing of six Jesuits in civil war</a>

At the end of 2014,&nbsp;Badawi, now 38, was sentenced to&nbsp;10&nbsp;years&nbsp;in&nbsp;prison&nbsp;and 50 lashes a week for twenty weeks.

His first flogging in Jeddah square in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia shocked the world and was described by the United Nations as "cruel and inhuman."&nbsp;After&nbsp;the outcry, he was not lashed again.

"Raif&nbsp;Badawi, human rights defender in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, has finally been&nbsp;released!" Amnesty International tweeted.

"Thousands of you have mobilized alongside us in the defense of&nbsp;Raif&nbsp;Badawi&nbsp;for&nbsp;10&nbsp;years. A big thank you to all of you for your tireless support."

Colette Lelievre, a Montreal-based campaign organizer with Amnesty who has worked on&nbsp;Badawi's case, said his release was "a great relief."

"Ensaf was at a loss for words," Lelievre said Friday. "She worked so hard to free her husband that emotions overwhelmed her."

&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;travel ban

Every Friday for almost seven&nbsp;years, Haidar -- who fled to Canada&nbsp;after&nbsp;Badawi's arrest and has since become a Canadian citizen -- held a public vigil for him.

She told AFP in late February at the 374th vigil in Sherbrooke, Quebec where she lives that she'd been able to maintain contact with her husband, speaking with him "up to three times a week" by telephone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ill-be-a-president-for-all-chileans-gabriel-boric-461483">'I'll be a president for all Chileans', says Gabriel Boric</a>

Canada's Quebec province has paved the way for&nbsp;Badawi&nbsp;to come to the country if he chooses by placing him on a priority list of potential immigrants for humanitarian reasons.

"Finally!" Quebec Premier Francois Legault tweeted Friday about his release, adding: "I keep thinking about the children who will finally see their father!"

No details of&nbsp;Badawi's release conditions were immediately available.

But Amnesty noted that the&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;blogger&nbsp;could still face a&nbsp;10-year ban on all travel outside&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, as this had been part of his original sentence.

The NGO added in an email to AFP that it would "actively work to have any conditions lifted."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted that he was "relieved that&nbsp;Raif&nbsp;Badawi&nbsp;has finally been&nbsp;released."&nbsp;

"Our officials are now working to seek clarity on the conditions of his release," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-owner-defends-policy-on-calls-for-violence-that-angered-russia-461496">Meta defends policy on calls for violence that angered Russia</a>

Irwin Cotler, a former Canadian justice minister and&nbsp;Badawi's international legal counsel, said in a statement he hoped that "Saudi&nbsp;authorities will compassionately allow for his reunification with his wife and young children in Canada."

International non-governmental groups and the United Nations continue to denounce the repression of dissenting voices and the imprisonment of activists in&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia, despite the kingdom's efforts to improve its image by undertaking certain reforms.

Raif&nbsp;Badawi's sister, Samar&nbsp;Badawi, as well as activist Nassima al-Sadah,&nbsp;released&nbsp;in 2021, remain stranded in the kingdom.

A Sunni Muslim like most Saudis,&nbsp;Raif&nbsp;Badawi&nbsp;studied economics and ran an institute for learning English and computer skills, according to his wife.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Saudi Arabia, UAE ignore phone calls from Biden

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-saudi-arabia-uae-ignore-phone-calls-from-biden-460694/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Known for his writings in support of freedom of expression, the&nbsp;blogger&nbsp;won the 2014 Reporters Without Borders prize in the net-citizen category.

He was also awarded the Sakharov&nbsp;Prize&nbsp;for Freedom by the European Parliament in 2015, and in 2015 and 2016, he was among the nominees for the Nobel Peace Prize.

After 10 years in prison for "insulting Islam," Saudi blogger and human rights activist Raif Badawi, who has become a symbol of freedom of expression around the world, was released on Friday.

After 10 years in prison for "insulting Islam," Saudi blogger and human rights activist Raif Badawi, who has become a symbol of freedom of expression around the world, was released on Friday. "Raif called me. He is free," his wife Ensaf Haidar, who lives in Canada with their three children and had been fiercely advocating for his release, told AFP. Badawi's release was also confirmed by a Saudi security official, who said on condition of anonymity that "he was released today." "I jumped when I found out. I couldn't believe it. I can't wait to see my dad, I'm so excited," one of his daughters, Nawja Badawi, 18, told AFP. The winner of the Reporters Without Borders prize for press freedom was arrested and detained in Saudi Arabia in 2012 on charges of "insulting Islam." Also read | El Salvador orders arrest of former president over killing of six Jesuits in civil war At the end of 2014, Badawi, now 38, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 50 lashes a week for twenty weeks. His first flogging in Jeddah square in Saudi Arabia shocked the world and was described by the United Nations as "cruel and inhuman." After the outcry, he was not lashed again. "Raif Badawi, human rights defender in Saudi Arabia, has finally been released!" Amnesty International tweeted. "Thousands of you have mobilized alongside us in the defense of Raif Badawi for 10 years. A big thank you to all of you for your tireless support." Colette Lelievre, a Montreal-based campaign organizer with Amnesty who has worked on Badawi's case, said his release was "a great relief." "Ensaf was at a loss for words," Lelievre said Friday. "She worked so hard to free her husband that emotions overwhelmed her." Saudi travel ban Every Friday for almost seven years, Haidar -- who fled to Canada after Badawi's arrest and has since become a Canadian citizen -- held a public vigil for him. She told AFP in late February at the 374th vigil in Sherbrooke, Quebec where she lives that she'd been able to maintain contact with her husband, speaking with him "up to three times a week" by telephone. Also read | 'I'll be a president for all Chileans', says Gabriel Boric Canada's Quebec province has paved the way for Badawi to come to the country if he chooses by placing him on a priority list of potential immigrants for humanitarian reasons. "Finally!" Quebec Premier Francois Legault tweeted Friday about his release, adding: "I keep thinking about the children who will finally see their father!" No details of Badawi's release conditions were immediately available. But Amnesty noted that the Saudi blogger could still face a 10-year ban on all travel outside Saudi Arabia, as this had been part of his original sentence. The NGO added in an email to AFP that it would "actively work to have any conditions lifted." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted that he was "relieved that Raif Badawi has finally been released." "Our officials are now working to seek clarity on the conditions of his release," he added. Also read | Meta defends policy on calls for violence that angered Russia Irwin Cotler, a former Canadian justice minister and Badawi's international legal counsel, said in a statement he hoped that "Saudi authorities will compassionately allow for his reunification with his wife and young children in Canada." International non-governmental groups and the United Nations continue to denounce the repression of dissenting voices and the imprisonment of activists in Saudi Arabia, despite the kingdom's efforts to improve its image by undertaking certain reforms. Raif Badawi's sister, Samar Badawi, as well as activist Nassima al-Sadah, released in 2021, remain stranded in the kingdom. A Sunni Muslim like most Saudis, Raif Badawi studied economics and ran an institute for learning English and computer skills, according to his wife. Watch | Gravitas: Saudi Arabia, UAE ignore phone calls from Biden Known for his writings in support of freedom of expression, the blogger won the 2014 Reporters Without Borders prize in the net-citizen category. He was also awarded the Sakharov Prize for Freedom by the European Parliament in 2015, and in 2015 and 2016, he was among the nominees for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Saudi blogger Raif Badawi released after 10 years in prison

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