Four Saudis who participated in the 2018 killing of the Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi received paramilitary training in the United States the previous year under a contract approved by the State Department, the New York Times reported on Tuesday. 
 
The training was provided by Tier 1 Group, which is owned by the private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management, and was defensive in nature and devised to protect Saudi leaders, the Times reported. 
 
Cerberus did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. 
 
In response to the Times report, State Department spokesman Ned Price said under the law the department cannot comment "on any of the licensed defense export licensing activity alleged in media reporting." 
 
Price also said US&nbsp;policy towards Saudi Arabia "will prioritize the rule of law and respect for human rights." 
 
Khashoggi, a US&nbsp;resident who wrote opinion columns for the Washington Post critical of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed and dismembered by a team of operatives linked to the prince in the kingdom`s consulate in Istanbul in October 2018. A US&nbsp;intelligence report in February said the crown prince had approved an operation to capture or kill the journalist. 
 
Cerberus senior executive Louis Bremer confirmed his company`s role in the training of four members of the Khashoggi kill team last year in written answers to questions from members of Congress as part of his nomination for a senior Pentagon job in former President Donald Trump`s administration, according to the Times. 
 
But the lawmakers never received the answers because the Trump administration does not appear to have sent them to Congress before withdrawing Bremer’s nomination, according to the Times, which said Bremer provided it with the document. 
 
Bremer said the US&nbsp;State Department and other government agencies are responsible for vetting foreign forces trained on US&nbsp;soil, the Times reported.

Four Saudis who participated in the 2018 killing of the Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi received paramilitary training in the United States the previous year under a contract approved by the State Department, the New York Times reported on Tuesday.

Four Saudis who participated in the 2018 killing of the Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi received paramilitary training in the United States the previous year under a contract approved by the State Department, the New York Times reported on Tuesday. The training was provided by Tier 1 Group, which is owned by the private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management, and was defensive in nature and devised to protect Saudi leaders, the Times reported. Cerberus did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. In response to the Times report, State Department spokesman Ned Price said under the law the department cannot comment "on any of the licensed defense export licensing activity alleged in media reporting." Price also said US policy towards Saudi Arabia "will prioritize the rule of law and respect for human rights." Khashoggi, a US resident who wrote opinion columns for the Washington Post critical of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed and dismembered by a team of operatives linked to the prince in the kingdom`s consulate in Istanbul in October 2018. A US intelligence report in February said the crown prince had approved an operation to capture or kill the journalist. Cerberus senior executive Louis Bremer confirmed his company`s role in the training of four members of the Khashoggi kill team last year in written answers to questions from members of Congress as part of his nomination for a senior Pentagon job in former President Donald Trump`s administration, according to the Times. But the lawmakers never received the answers because the Trump administration does not appear to have sent them to Congress before withdrawing Bremer’s nomination, according to the Times, which said Bremer provided it with the document. Bremer said the US State Department and other government agencies are responsible for vetting foreign forces trained on US soil, the Times reported.

Saudis who killed journalist Khashoggi received paramilitary training in US: Report

In the&nbsp;first such step by any country in the Gulf region, Saudi Arabia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with India for the establishment of a formal "yoga protocol (standards)" for the promotion of yoga in the country.

The&nbsp;formal yoga standards and courses will be tailormade for the country, keeping in view local sensitivities.&nbsp;

With this, yoga has been formally recognised in the country as an important sports activity by Saudi Arabia's ministry of sports.

While yoga has been allowed in the country since November 2017, with the MoU a formal system has been put in place for its practice.&nbsp;

The MoU was signed on the 7th International Yoga Day between India's ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr Ausaf Sayeed and Abdullah Faisal Hammad, Director General, Leaders Development Institute, Ministry of Sports.&nbsp;

The MoU has been in making for the last six-seven months.&nbsp;Yoga standards are in the advanced stages and it's understood that an announcement is in the offing with experts and&nbsp;the Saudi ministry of sport drafting the standards-compliant with local laws and norms.&nbsp;

Under the standards, formal certification of yoga trainers will start with exams, and the process of evaluation can take place.&nbsp;

The MoU also facilitates collaboration in research, education, and training in the field of yoga.

The MoU for yoga cooperation is between Leaders Development Institute, Saudi ministry of sports, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India.&nbsp;Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga&nbsp;is the nodal body for planning, training, and promotion of yoga in India.

A Saudi Yoga Committee has been formed&nbsp;which will have the power of an independent yoga federation just like any other sports federation.&nbsp;

Nouf Marwaai will be heading the body.&nbsp;In 2018, Nouf also known as the first&nbsp;Saudi Yogacharya&nbsp;was honoured with&nbsp;India's fourth-highest civilian award the Padma Shri for her role in the popularisation of yoga.

In the first such step by any country in the Gulf region, Saudi Arabia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with India for the establishment of a formal "yoga protocol (standards)" for the promotion of yoga in the country.

In the first such step by any country in the Gulf region, Saudi Arabia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with India for the establishment of a formal "yoga protocol (standards)" for the promotion of yoga in the country. The formal yoga standards and courses will be tailormade for the country, keeping in view local sensitivities. With this, yoga has been formally recognised in the country as an important sports activity by Saudi Arabia's ministry of sports. While yoga has been allowed in the country since November 2017, with the MoU a formal system has been put in place for its practice. The MoU was signed on the 7th International Yoga Day between India's ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr Ausaf Sayeed and Abdullah Faisal Hammad, Director General, Leaders Development Institute, Ministry of Sports. The MoU has been in making for the last six-seven months. Yoga standards are in the advanced stages and it's understood that an announcement is in the offing with experts and the Saudi ministry of sport drafting the standards-compliant with local laws and norms. Under the standards, formal certification of yoga trainers will start with exams, and the process of evaluation can take place. The MoU also facilitates collaboration in research, education, and training in the field of yoga. The MoU for yoga cooperation is between Leaders Development Institute, Saudi ministry of sports, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga is the nodal body for planning, training, and promotion of yoga in India. A Saudi Yoga Committee has been formed which will have the power of an independent yoga federation just like any other sports federation. Nouf Marwaai will be heading the body. In 2018, Nouf also known as the first Saudi Yogacharya was honoured with India's fourth-highest civilian award the Padma Shri for her role in the popularisation of yoga.

Formal yoga standards in Saudi Arabia soon as country signs MoU with India

Saudi Arabian state media on Saturday said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition.

The official Saudi Press Agency reported that seven of the drones targetted regions in southern Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Three targeted the Khamis Mushait region, also in the south and home to military installations, it said.

"The interception operations were successful," the coalition said in a statement, adding that the drones were packed with explosives and seven were knocked out in Yemeni air space.

Earlier on Saturday, Iran-backed Houthi rebels tweeted that one drone was launched towards King Khaled air base in Khamis Mushait.

These developments come as diplomatic push by the United Nations, the US to secure Yemen ceasefire have failed.

The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths on Tuesday told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war have been "in vain".

"It is with deep regret that I report today that the parties have not overcome their differences," said Griffiths.

Yemen has been devastated by a civil war between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-backed Huthis since 2014, and millions of civilians are on the brink of famine, according to the UN.

The Saudi-led coalition has controlled Yemen's airspace since it launched a military campaign in 2015 to prop up the country's internationally recognised government.

The Huthis have repeatedly demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport before any ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabian state media on Saturday said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition.

Saudi Arabian state media on Saturday said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition. The official Saudi Press Agency reported that seven of the drones targetted regions in southern Saudi Arabia. Three targeted the Khamis Mushait region, also in the south and home to military installations, it said. "The interception operations were successful," the coalition said in a statement, adding that the drones were packed with explosives and seven were knocked out in Yemeni air space. Earlier on Saturday, Iran-backed Houthi rebels tweeted that one drone was launched towards King Khaled air base in Khamis Mushait. These developments come as diplomatic push by the United Nations, the US to secure Yemen ceasefire have failed. The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths on Tuesday told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war have been "in vain". "It is with deep regret that I report today that the parties have not overcome their differences," said Griffiths. Yemen has been devastated by a civil war between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-backed Huthis since 2014, and millions of civilians are on the brink of famine, according to the UN. The Saudi-led coalition has controlled Yemen's airspace since it launched a military campaign in 2015 to prop up the country's internationally recognised government. The Huthis have repeatedly demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport before any ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi defences intercept 10 Houthi drones, says state media

Saudi Arabia has now altered its 'Male Guardianship System' to allow women to live & travel independently. Palki Sharma takes you through the string of reforms being undertaken by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia alters Male Guardianship System

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;announced Saturday it will allow 60,000 residents vaccinated against Covid to perform this year's hajj, but Muslims from abroad will be barred for a second straight year.

The hajj -- a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lives -- typically packs millions of pilgrims into congested religious sites and could be a major source of contagion amid the coronavirus pandemic.

This year it would be "open for nationals and residents of the kingdom, limited to 60,000 pilgrims", the hajj ministry said, quoted by the official&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Press Agency.

The pilgrimage, scheduled to be held in July, would be limited to those who have been vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, it said.

Only up to 10,000 Muslims took part in last year's hajj, a far cry from the 2.5 million who participated in the five-day annual pilgrimage in 2019 before the pandemic.

"In light of what the whole world is witnessing with the coronavirus pandemic... and the emergence of new variants, the relevant authorities have continued to monitor the global health situation," the ministry said.

"Considering the large crowds that perform hajj, spending long periods of time in multiple and specific places... requires the highest levels of health precautions."

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;said those wishing to perform the hajj would have to apply online, without specifying how many foreign residents would be among the 60,000 pilgrims.

In 2020, foreigners were 70 percent of the pilgrims, while Saudis made up the rest.

The kingdom said it had informed other countries of the decision not to allow pilgrims from abroad.

"There was great understanding," deputy hajj minister, Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat, told a news conference.

"Arrangements for this were based on the kingdom's keenness on the pilgrims' health and the safety of their countries."

Vaccination drive

Pakistan's government said it supported the decision but there was disappointment among those hoping to make the pilgrimage.

"I am profoundly saddened... I also wanted to go for hajj last year. I was desperately hoping to make it this year and even had got myself vaccinated along with my wife," clothes merchant Zafar Ullah, 64, told AFP.

Mohammad Shakeel, a tour operator from Hajj Organisers Association of Pakistan, said the&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;decision would "further add" to financial losses faced by his company.

Riyadh is accelerating a nationwide vaccination drive as it moves to revive tourism and host sports and entertainment events, pandemic-hit sectors that are a bedrock of the "Vision 2030" program to diversify its oil-reliant economy.

It has approved the Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson &amp; Johnson, and AstraZeneca vaccines.

In May, only inoculated or immunized citizens were allowed to travel abroad after the kingdom lifted a ban on overseas trips introduced at the start of the pandemic.

The kingdom has also said that from August 1, vaccinations would be mandatory to enter government and private establishments, including educational institutions and entertainment venues, as well as to use public transport.

In a relaxation of coronavirus curbs last October,&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;opened the Grand Mosque for prayers for the first time in seven months and partially resumed the all-year-round umrah pilgrimage.

The limit on umrah pilgrims is 20,000 a day, with a total of 60,000 worshippers allowed to perform daily prayers at the mosque.

Authorities said the umrah -- which usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe -- would be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated.

The revered Black Stone&nbsp;in the Kaaba -- which is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage -- remains out of reach.

Loss of revenue&nbsp;

A scaled-down hajj represents a major loss of revenue for the kingdom, already reeling from the twin shocks of the virus-induced slowdown and a plunge in oil prices.

The hajj and the year-round umrah pilgrimages together rake in some $12 billion (10.3 billion euros) annually.

Last year, the foreign press were barred from the hajj, usually a huge global media event.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;has so far recorded more than 460,000 coronavirus infections, including 7,537 deaths.

More than 15 million coronavirus vaccine doses have been administered in the country of over 34 million people.

Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy.

But a series of deadly disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 worshippers, has prompted criticism of the kingdom's management of the pilgrimage.

Saudi Arabia announced Saturday it will allow 60,000 residents vaccinated against Covid to perform this year's hajj, but Muslims from abroad will be barred for a second straight year.

Saudi Arabia announced Saturday it will allow 60,000 residents vaccinated against Covid to perform this year's hajj, but Muslims from abroad will be barred for a second straight year. The hajj -- a must for able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lives -- typically packs millions of pilgrims into congested religious sites and could be a major source of contagion amid the coronavirus pandemic. This year it would be "open for nationals and residents of the kingdom, limited to 60,000 pilgrims", the hajj ministry said, quoted by the official Saudi Press Agency. The pilgrimage, scheduled to be held in July, would be limited to those who have been vaccinated and are aged 18-65 with no chronic illnesses, it said. Only up to 10,000 Muslims took part in last year's hajj, a far cry from the 2.5 million who participated in the five-day annual pilgrimage in 2019 before the pandemic. "In light of what the whole world is witnessing with the coronavirus pandemic... and the emergence of new variants, the relevant authorities have continued to monitor the global health situation," the ministry said. "Considering the large crowds that perform hajj, spending long periods of time in multiple and specific places... requires the highest levels of health precautions." Saudi Arabia said those wishing to perform the hajj would have to apply online, without specifying how many foreign residents would be among the 60,000 pilgrims. In 2020, foreigners were 70 percent of the pilgrims, while Saudis made up the rest. The kingdom said it had informed other countries of the decision not to allow pilgrims from abroad. "There was great understanding," deputy hajj minister, Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat, told a news conference. "Arrangements for this were based on the kingdom's keenness on the pilgrims' health and the safety of their countries." Vaccination drive Pakistan's government said it supported the decision but there was disappointment among those hoping to make the pilgrimage. "I am profoundly saddened... I also wanted to go for hajj last year. I was desperately hoping to make it this year and even had got myself vaccinated along with my wife," clothes merchant Zafar Ullah, 64, told AFP. Mohammad Shakeel, a tour operator from Hajj Organisers Association of Pakistan, said the Saudi decision would "further add" to financial losses faced by his company. Riyadh is accelerating a nationwide vaccination drive as it moves to revive tourism and host sports and entertainment events, pandemic-hit sectors that are a bedrock of the "Vision 2030" program to diversify its oil-reliant economy. It has approved the Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, and AstraZeneca vaccines. In May, only inoculated or immunized citizens were allowed to travel abroad after the kingdom lifted a ban on overseas trips introduced at the start of the pandemic. The kingdom has also said that from August 1, vaccinations would be mandatory to enter government and private establishments, including educational institutions and entertainment venues, as well as to use public transport. In a relaxation of coronavirus curbs last October, Saudi Arabia opened the Grand Mosque for prayers for the first time in seven months and partially resumed the all-year-round umrah pilgrimage. The limit on umrah pilgrims is 20,000 a day, with a total of 60,000 worshippers allowed to perform daily prayers at the mosque. Authorities said the umrah -- which usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe -- would be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated. The revered Black Stone in the Kaaba -- which is customary but not mandatory to touch during the pilgrimage -- remains out of reach. Loss of revenue A scaled-down hajj represents a major loss of revenue for the kingdom, already reeling from the twin shocks of the virus-induced slowdown and a plunge in oil prices. The hajj and the year-round umrah pilgrimages together rake in some $12 billion (10.3 billion euros) annually. Last year, the foreign press were barred from the hajj, usually a huge global media event. Saudi Arabia has so far recorded more than 460,000 coronavirus infections, including 7,537 deaths. More than 15 million coronavirus vaccine doses have been administered in the country of over 34 million people. Hosting the hajj is a matter of prestige for Saudi rulers, for whom the custodianship of Islam's holiest sites is their most powerful source of political legitimacy. But a series of deadly disasters over the years, including a 2015 stampede that killed up to 2,300 worshippers, has prompted criticism of the kingdom's management of the pilgrimage.

Saudi allows 60,000 vaccinated residents on hajj, bars foreigners again

Saudi Arabia has restricted the annual Haj pilgrimage to its own citizens and residents for the second year running in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the state Saudi Press Agency (SPA)reported on Saturday.

Only people aged between 18 and 65 who have been vaccinated or immunised from the virus, and are free of chronic diseases, will be able to take part, the ministry that manages the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca said in a statement carried by SPA.

It also set a maximum of 60,000 participants.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-to-hold-haj-under-covid-safety-measures-384024">Saudi Arabia to hold Haj under Covid safety measures</a>

"The decision (was made) to guarantee the safety of haj amid uncertainty over the coronavirus," the kingdom's health minister Tawfiq al-Rabiah said in a televised press conference carried by SPA.

"Despite the availability of vaccine, there is uncertainty over the virus and some countries still record high numbers of COVID cases, the other challenge is the different variants of the virus, hence came the decision to restrict haj," al-Rabiah said.

Earlier&nbsp;in May sources has said that&nbsp;a plan was being considered to bar overseas pilgrims from performing Haj, a once in a lifetime duty for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it.

Before the pandemic enforced social distancing globally, some 2.5 million pilgrims used to visit the holiest sites of Islam in Mecca and Medina for the week-long haj, and the lesser, year-round umrah pilgrimage, which altogether earned the kingdom about $12 billion a year, according to official data.

Saudi Arabia has restricted the annual Haj pilgrimage to its own citizens and residents for the second year running in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the state Saudi Press Agency (SPA)reported on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia has restricted the annual Haj pilgrimage to its own citizens and residents for the second year running in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the state Saudi Press Agency (SPA)reported on Saturday. Only people aged between 18 and 65 who have been vaccinated or immunised from the virus, and are free of chronic diseases, will be able to take part, the ministry that manages the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca said in a statement carried by SPA. It also set a maximum of 60,000 participants. Also read | Saudi Arabia to hold Haj under Covid safety measures "The decision (was made) to guarantee the safety of haj amid uncertainty over the coronavirus," the kingdom's health minister Tawfiq al-Rabiah said in a televised press conference carried by SPA. "Despite the availability of vaccine, there is uncertainty over the virus and some countries still record high numbers of COVID cases, the other challenge is the different variants of the virus, hence came the decision to restrict haj," al-Rabiah said. Earlier in May sources has said that a plan was being considered to bar overseas pilgrims from performing Haj, a once in a lifetime duty for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it. Before the pandemic enforced social distancing globally, some 2.5 million pilgrims used to visit the holiest sites of Islam in Mecca and Medina for the week-long haj, and the lesser, year-round umrah pilgrimage, which altogether earned the kingdom about $12 billion a year, according to official data.

Saudi Arabia bars foreign travellers from Haj over COVID-19

Saudi Arabia has approved the Covishield vaccine. The country has recognised the Covishield COVID-19 vaccine as an equivalent of the AstraZeneca shot.

Indian COVID-19 vaccine Covishield gets nod from Saudi Arabia for travelers

The Hajj pilgrimage in Indonesia has been cancelled for the second year in a row due to fears over the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the religious affairs ministry.

Saudi Arabia, where the pilgrimage takes place, has not opened access to the Hajj, according to Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas.&nbsp; 
 
Indonesia is the world's most populous Muslim nation, and it also provides the largest number of pilgrims for the Hajj. According to this division, Indonesia ranks up highest in terms of Muslims arriving for Hajj in Mecca followed by Pakistan and India in second and third positions.

The Saudi Kingdom had organised an exceptional Hajj season last year with a limited number of pilgrims as part of precautionary measures against the spread of Covid. 
 
Saudi Arabia has so far reported 426,384 confirmed Covid cases, with 7,072 deaths and 409,740 recoveries. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Hajj pilgrimage in Indonesia has been cancelled for the second year in a row due to fears over the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the religious affairs ministry.

The Hajj pilgrimage in Indonesia has been cancelled for the second year in a row due to fears over the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the religious affairs ministry. Saudi Arabia, where the pilgrimage takes place, has not opened access to the Hajj, according to Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. Indonesia is the world's most populous Muslim nation, and it also provides the largest number of pilgrims for the Hajj. According to this division, Indonesia ranks up highest in terms of Muslims arriving for Hajj in Mecca followed by Pakistan and India in second and third positions. The Saudi Kingdom had organised an exceptional Hajj season last year with a limited number of pilgrims as part of precautionary measures against the spread of Covid. Saudi Arabia has so far reported 426,384 confirmed Covid cases, with 7,072 deaths and 409,740 recoveries. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia cancels Hajj pilgrimage again due to coronavirus concerns

Saudi Arabia has restricted the volume of loudspeakers at mosque. The move has been met with both applause & resentment. But what led to this decision?

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia restricts loudspeakers at mosques

Iranian foreign ministry said on Monday that the country's talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia were ongoing in "good atmosphere" in the hope of reaching "common understanding". Last month, media revealed that Iranian and Saudi officials had met in Baghdad in April. This was their first high-level meeting since Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2016.

"Talks are still continuing in a good atmosphere," ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said at a press conference.

"We hope these talks can achieve a common understanding between Iran and Saudi Arabia," he added.

Ties between the two countries were cut in 2016 after Iranian protestors attacked Saudi diplomatic missions following the kingdom's execution of a revered Shiite cleric.

The talks in Baghdad, facilitated by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported that a first meeting was held on April 9.

Khatibzadeh confirmed the talks on May 10, saying their purpose was "both bilateral and regional", but stressed it was "too soon" to disclose any details.

"De-escalation and (establishing) ties between two great Islamic countries in the Persian Gulf region is to the benefit of both nations," he said at the time.

Iran in late April welcomed a "change of tone" from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman towards it after he called for a "good and special relationship" with Tehran.

The regional rivals have backed opposite sides of several regional conflicts, from Syria to Yemen, where a Saudi-led military coalition is fighting the Huthi rebels.

Iran backs the Huthis, who are battling the coalition that intervened in Yemen's war in support of an internationally recognised government in 2015.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian foreign ministry said on Monday that the country's talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia were ongoing in "good atmosphere" in the hope of reaching "common understanding".

Iranian foreign ministry said on Monday that the country's talks with regional rival Saudi Arabia were ongoing in "good atmosphere" in the hope of reaching "common understanding". Last month, media revealed that Iranian and Saudi officials had met in Baghdad in April. This was their first high-level meeting since Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2016. "Talks are still continuing in a good atmosphere," ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said at a press conference. "We hope these talks can achieve a common understanding between Iran and Saudi Arabia," he added. Ties between the two countries were cut in 2016 after Iranian protestors attacked Saudi diplomatic missions following the kingdom's execution of a revered Shiite cleric. The talks in Baghdad, facilitated by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported that a first meeting was held on April 9. Khatibzadeh confirmed the talks on May 10, saying their purpose was "both bilateral and regional", but stressed it was "too soon" to disclose any details. "De-escalation and (establishing) ties between two great Islamic countries in the Persian Gulf region is to the benefit of both nations," he said at the time. Iran in late April welcomed a "change of tone" from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman towards it after he called for a "good and special relationship" with Tehran. The regional rivals have backed opposite sides of several regional conflicts, from Syria to Yemen, where a Saudi-led military coalition is fighting the Huthi rebels. Iran backs the Huthis, who are battling the coalition that intervened in Yemen's war in support of an internationally recognised government in 2015. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran says talks with Saudi Arabia ongoing in 'good atmosphere'

The first batch of three ISO tanks containing 60 tonnes of liquid oxygen headed for India will leave Saudi Arabia on Sunday, May 30. The tanks are expected to arrive in Mumbai on June 6, after plans to depart from Dammam on May 30.

This is the first of many batches set to arrive in India from Saudi Arabia, sources told WION. 100 ISO tanks will arrive in India in different batches to assist with oxygen shortages reported in hospitals amid a recent surge in Covid cases.

Many countries have extended aid to India after an explosive surge in cases first reported in the end of April. In the beginning of May, Saudi Arabia assured India of medical oxygen supplies.

On May 7, Indian Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. It was during this time that the kingdom first assured India of supplying ISO containers over the next six months.

In the first half of May, the country reported record 400,000+ cases on a single day. Since then, the number of daily cases has&nbsp;come down tremendously - showing a downward trend.&nbsp;

On May 29, over 170,000 new cases were reported in 24 hours, marking the lowest spike since April 13.

Experts believe that the second-wave of Covid is now easing in the country. Delhi government announced plans to slowly unlock the city as cases dipped to pre-March levels.

The first batch of three ISO tanks containing 60 tonnes of liquid oxygen headed for India will leave Saudi Arabia on Sunday, May 30. The tanks are expected to arrive in Mumbai on June 6, after plans to depart from Dammam on May 30.

The first batch of three ISO tanks containing 60 tonnes of liquid oxygen headed for India will leave Saudi Arabia on Sunday, May 30. The tanks are expected to arrive in Mumbai on June 6, after plans to depart from Dammam on May 30. This is the first of many batches set to arrive in India from Saudi Arabia, sources told WION. 100 ISO tanks will arrive in India in different batches to assist with oxygen shortages reported in hospitals amid a recent surge in Covid cases. Many countries have extended aid to India after an explosive surge in cases first reported in the end of April. In the beginning of May, Saudi Arabia assured India of medical oxygen supplies. On May 7, Indian Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. It was during this time that the kingdom first assured India of supplying ISO containers over the next six months. In the first half of May, the country reported record 400,000+ cases on a single day. Since then, the number of daily cases has come down tremendously - showing a downward trend. On May 29, over 170,000 new cases were reported in 24 hours, marking the lowest spike since April 13. Experts believe that the second-wave of Covid is now easing in the country. Delhi government announced plans to slowly unlock the city as cases dipped to pre-March levels.

First batch of ISO oxygen tanks from Saudi Arabia to leave for India on May 30

The Philippines on Saturday said the country's workers could again go to work in Saudi Arabia, reversing a brief deployment ban after the kingdom said they would not be charged for COVID-19 tests and quarantine upon arrival.&nbsp;

"Our Saudi-bound workers will no longer be disadvantaged," said Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello.&nbsp;

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines said it will accept Filipino workers on flights to Dammam and Riyadh, waiving rebooking fees for passengers, who had been unable to board because of the deployment ban.&nbsp;

Bello apologised for the 'inconvenience and momentary anguish; caused by his Thursday ban, saying, "I understand that the suspension order drew confusion and irritation among our affected departing overseas Filipino workers.&nbsp;

More than a million Filipinos work in Saudi Arabia, the most preferred destination of overseas Filipino workers in 2019, government data show. Many Filipinos are hired as construction workers, domestic helpers or nurses.&nbsp;

In 2020, Filipinos in Saudi Arabia sent home $1.8 billion in remittances, a key support for the consumption-led economy.&nbsp;

With more than 1.2 million cases and 20,722 deaths, the Philippines has the second-highest COVID-19 infections and casualties in Southeast Asia, behind Indonesia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The Philippines on Saturday said the country's workers could again go to work in Saudi Arabia, reversing a brief deployment ban after the kingdom said they would not be charged for COVID-19 tests and quarantine upon arrival.

The Philippines on Saturday said the country's workers could again go to work in Saudi Arabia, reversing a brief deployment ban after the kingdom said they would not be charged for COVID-19 tests and quarantine upon arrival. "Our Saudi-bound workers will no longer be disadvantaged," said Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello. Flag carrier Philippine Airlines said it will accept Filipino workers on flights to Dammam and Riyadh, waiving rebooking fees for passengers, who had been unable to board because of the deployment ban. Bello apologised for the 'inconvenience and momentary anguish; caused by his Thursday ban, saying, "I understand that the suspension order drew confusion and irritation among our affected departing overseas Filipino workers. More than a million Filipinos work in Saudi Arabia, the most preferred destination of overseas Filipino workers in 2019, government data show. Many Filipinos are hired as construction workers, domestic helpers or nurses. In 2020, Filipinos in Saudi Arabia sent home $1.8 billion in remittances, a key support for the consumption-led economy. With more than 1.2 million cases and 20,722 deaths, the Philippines has the second-highest COVID-19 infections and casualties in Southeast Asia, behind Indonesia. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines lifts ban on workers deploying to Saudi Arabia 

The Philippines has suspended the deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia after it received reports that their employers and recruiters were making them pay for COVID-19 testing, quarantine and insurance upon arrival in the kingdom. 
 
Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello said in a May 27 order that his department will issue an official statement on resumption of deployment "after this matter has been clarified accordingly". 
 
It was not immediately clear how many Filipinos bound for Saudi Arabia would be directly affected. 
 
Saudi Arabia was the most preferred destination of overseas Filipino workers in 2019, government data showed, hosting one out of five Filipinos who landed jobs abroad during that year. 
 
More than a million Filipinos work in Saudi Arabia, many in construction or as domestic helpers or nurses. 
 
Saudi Arabia`s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment outside office hours. 
 
Filipinos in Saudi Arabia sent home $1.8 billion in remittances in 2020, making it an important source of foreign exchange inflows, a key driver of the Philippines` consumption-led economy.

The Philippines has suspended the deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia after it received reports that their employers and recruiters were making them pay for COVID-19 testing, quarantine and insurance upon arrival in the kingdom.

The Philippines has suspended the deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia after it received reports that their employers and recruiters were making them pay for COVID-19 testing, quarantine and insurance upon arrival in the kingdom. Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello said in a May 27 order that his department will issue an official statement on resumption of deployment "after this matter has been clarified accordingly". It was not immediately clear how many Filipinos bound for Saudi Arabia would be directly affected. Saudi Arabia was the most preferred destination of overseas Filipino workers in 2019, government data showed, hosting one out of five Filipinos who landed jobs abroad during that year. More than a million Filipinos work in Saudi Arabia, many in construction or as domestic helpers or nurses. Saudi Arabia`s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment outside office hours. Filipinos in Saudi Arabia sent home $1.8 billion in remittances in 2020, making it an important source of foreign exchange inflows, a key driver of the Philippines` consumption-led economy.

Philippines halts deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia plans to soon reopen to foreign tourists, a senior tourism official said on Monday after the kingdom announced the lifting of quarantine restrictions for certain foreign arrivals.

The kingdom announced late on Sunday that non-citizens arriving from certain countries and who were fully vaccinated against or recently recovered from COVID-19 would no longer be required to quarantine in designated government hotels.

Also read:<a href="'It's a great feeling': Saudis flock to Bahrain as curbs ease on travel abroad after over a year">&nbsp;'It's a great feeling': Saudis flock to Bahrain as curbs ease on travel abroad after over a year</a>

Those new measures, however, only apply to residents, government and business travellers or those visiting friends and family but not foreign tourists, according to the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Saudi Arabia decries Israel's 'flagrant violations' of Palestinian rights">Saudi Arabia decries Israel's 'flagrant violations' of Palestinian rights</a>

STA Chief Executive Fahd Hamidaddin told Reuters the kingdom would reopen to foreign tourists this year with an announcement expected to be made 'very soon.' Hamidaddin declined to say exactly when.

Saudi Arabia liberalised its tourism industry in 2019, making it easier for foreigners to apply for tourist visas to the kingdom that had been relatively closed off for decades.

Hamidaddin said the kingdom was still targeting 100 million annual visits by 2030, up from about 40 million a year before the pandemic.

It was also still targeting for tourism to account for 10% of GDP, up from 3%, by 2030, he said.

Saudi Arabia plans to soon reopen to foreign tourists, a senior tourism official said on Monday after the kingdom announced the lifting of quarantine restrictions for certain foreign arrivals.

Saudi Arabia plans to soon reopen to foreign tourists, a senior tourism official said on Monday after the kingdom announced the lifting of quarantine restrictions for certain foreign arrivals. The kingdom announced late on Sunday that non-citizens arriving from certain countries and who were fully vaccinated against or recently recovered from COVID-19 would no longer be required to quarantine in designated government hotels. Also read: 'It's a great feeling': Saudis flock to Bahrain as curbs ease on travel abroad after over a year Those new measures, however, only apply to residents, government and business travellers or those visiting friends and family but not foreign tourists, according to the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA). Also read: Saudi Arabia decries Israel's 'flagrant violations' of Palestinian rights STA Chief Executive Fahd Hamidaddin told Reuters the kingdom would reopen to foreign tourists this year with an announcement expected to be made 'very soon.' Hamidaddin declined to say exactly when. Saudi Arabia liberalised its tourism industry in 2019, making it easier for foreigners to apply for tourist visas to the kingdom that had been relatively closed off for decades. Hamidaddin said the kingdom was still targeting 100 million annual visits by 2030, up from about 40 million a year before the pandemic. It was also still targeting for tourism to account for 10% of GDP, up from 3%, by 2030, he said.

Saudi Arabia to reopen to foreign tourists soon, official says

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza in phone calls with the Qatari, Egyptian and Saudi foreign ministers, the State Department said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Blinken and Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani discussed 'efforts to restore calm in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza in light of the tragic loss of civilian life', the State Department said.&nbsp;

The Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two officials discussed "the recent Israeli attacks on worshippers at the Al Aqsa Compound and the attack on the besieged Gaza Strip," adding that Al-Thani stressed "the need for urgent action by the international community to stop the repeated brutal Israeli attacks against civilians in Gaza and the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque."&nbsp;

In his call with Egypt's Sameh Shoukry, Blinken "reiterated his call on all parties to deescalate tensions and bring a halt to the violence, which has claimed the lives of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, including children", the State Department said in another statement.&nbsp;

Saudi state news agency SPA reported on Sunday that Blinken also had a phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud to discuss the latest developments 'in Palestine and in the region’.&nbsp;

The State Department said the two discussed "the ongoing efforts to calm tensions in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza and bring the current violence to an end."&nbsp;

Qatar's Al-Thani also held a phone call on Sunday with Shoukry, in which they reviewed 'bilateral cooperation relations and developments in Palestine’, the Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a separate statement.&nbsp;

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two ministers agreed on "the importance of working to reach an immediate ceasefire between the two sides, and they also agreed to continue coordination in the bilateral framework, as well as in regional and international ones, regarding what is in the interest of the Palestinian people and reaching a ceasefire." &nbsp;

The truce efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations have so far offered no sign of progress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza in phone calls with the Qatari, Egyptian and Saudi foreign ministers, the State Department said on Sunday.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the violence in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza in phone calls with the Qatari, Egyptian and Saudi foreign ministers, the State Department said on Sunday. Blinken and Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani discussed 'efforts to restore calm in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza in light of the tragic loss of civilian life', the State Department said. The Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two officials discussed "the recent Israeli attacks on worshippers at the Al Aqsa Compound and the attack on the besieged Gaza Strip," adding that Al-Thani stressed "the need for urgent action by the international community to stop the repeated brutal Israeli attacks against civilians in Gaza and the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque." In his call with Egypt's Sameh Shoukry, Blinken "reiterated his call on all parties to deescalate tensions and bring a halt to the violence, which has claimed the lives of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, including children", the State Department said in another statement. Saudi state news agency SPA reported on Sunday that Blinken also had a phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud to discuss the latest developments 'in Palestine and in the region’. The State Department said the two discussed "the ongoing efforts to calm tensions in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza and bring the current violence to an end." Qatar's Al-Thani also held a phone call on Sunday with Shoukry, in which they reviewed 'bilateral cooperation relations and developments in Palestine’, the Qatari Foreign Ministry said in a separate statement. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the two ministers agreed on "the importance of working to reach an immediate ceasefire between the two sides, and they also agreed to continue coordination in the bilateral framework, as well as in regional and international ones, regarding what is in the interest of the Palestinian people and reaching a ceasefire." The truce efforts by Egypt, Qatar and the United Nations have so far offered no sign of progress. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken discusses Gaza in calls with Qatari, Egyptian, Saudi foreign ministers 

There was excitement but no crowds early on Monday morning at Riyadh's international airport as Saudi Arabia lifted a ban on citizens travelling out of the Gulf state without prior permission from authorities.

Saudi nationals who have received at least one COVID-19 vaccination shot a minimum two weeks prior to travel, those who have recovered from the coronavirus disease within the last six months, and those under 18 will be allowed to travel for the first time since March 2020.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Singapore coronavirus cases could burst hopes for Hong Kong travel bubble">Singapore coronavirus cases could burst hopes for Hong Kong travel bubble</a>

"It's a great feeling, thank God, we are happy, especially after the difficult period we and the entire world have suffered," said Bandar Al Nawash, a passenger waiting in the departure lounge of King Khalid International Airport.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Australia carries out first repatriation flight from India after travel ban">Australia carries out first repatriation flight from India after travel ban</a>

Fellow national Faisal Al Tamimi said he had expected large crowds at the airport, but there were only a few travellers early on Monday after the suspension was lifted at 1 a.m. local time.

"I think people are worried about the coronavirus variants such as the one in India, and new developments in some countries," Al Tamimi said.

There are 13 countries Saudi nationals are still banned from visiting without prior permission, whether through direct or indirect flights due to COVID-19 risks.

Saudi Arabia, with a population of some 30 million, reported 825 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, taking total caseload to 433,094, including 7,162 deaths.

Authorities said on Sunday more than 11.5 million vaccines had been administered in the Gulf Arab state so far.

"Thank God ... today we can travel whether for tourism or for business. God willing this pandemic will be over and everyone will be able to travel," said Jaber Al Mahadi, another traveller at the airport on Monday morning.

There was excitement but no crowds early on Monday morning at Riyadh's international airport as Saudi Arabia lifted a ban on citizens travelling out of the Gulf state without prior permission from authorities.

There was excitement but no crowds early on Monday morning at Riyadh's international airport as Saudi Arabia lifted a ban on citizens travelling out of the Gulf state without prior permission from authorities. Saudi nationals who have received at least one COVID-19 vaccination shot a minimum two weeks prior to travel, those who have recovered from the coronavirus disease within the last six months, and those under 18 will be allowed to travel for the first time since March 2020. Also read: Singapore coronavirus cases could burst hopes for Hong Kong travel bubble "It's a great feeling, thank God, we are happy, especially after the difficult period we and the entire world have suffered," said Bandar Al Nawash, a passenger waiting in the departure lounge of King Khalid International Airport. Also read: Australia carries out first repatriation flight from India after travel ban Fellow national Faisal Al Tamimi said he had expected large crowds at the airport, but there were only a few travellers early on Monday after the suspension was lifted at 1 a.m. local time. "I think people are worried about the coronavirus variants such as the one in India, and new developments in some countries," Al Tamimi said. There are 13 countries Saudi nationals are still banned from visiting without prior permission, whether through direct or indirect flights due to COVID-19 risks. Saudi Arabia, with a population of some 30 million, reported 825 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, taking total caseload to 433,094, including 7,162 deaths. Authorities said on Sunday more than 11.5 million vaccines had been administered in the Gulf Arab state so far. "Thank God ... today we can travel whether for tourism or for business. God willing this pandemic will be over and everyone will be able to travel," said Jaber Al Mahadi, another traveller at the airport on Monday morning.

'It's a great feeling': Saudis flock to Bahrain as curbs ease on travel abroad after over a year

Saudi Arabia has called for foreign ministers of the world's largest body of Muslim nations to hold a meeting on Sunday.

The gathering is to discuss Israeli acts of violence against Palestinians and the Israeli police's use of force against protesters at Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Qatar top diplomat meets Hamas' leader in Doha ">Qatar top diplomat meets Hamas' leader in Doha&nbsp;</a>

The kingdom will host the virtual summit, gathering ministers of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to discuss the Israeli aggression in the Palestinian territory, particularly acts of violence in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, the body said on Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Israel bombs home of Hamas chief in Gaza; violence shows no signs of abating">Israel bombs home of Hamas chief in Gaza; violence shows no signs of abating</a>

The Saudi-headquartered OIC includes countries Iran, Turkey, Indonesia and a range of Muslim majority nations.

The sanctity of Al-Aqsa mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites, is a sensitive and emotive issue for Muslims around the world.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Biden calls Netanyahu, reaffirms US support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, other terror groups">Biden calls Netanyahu, reaffirms US support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, other terror groups</a>

The OIC was formed 51 years ago in response to a Jewish extremist arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in east Jerusalem.

The hilltop on which the mosque stands is also sacred to Jews, who revere it as the Temple Mount because it was the site of the biblical temples.

Some Jews and evangelical Christians support building a new Jewish temple on the site, an idea that Muslims find alarming because they fear it would lead to the mosque being partitioned or demolished.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has called for foreign ministers of the world's largest body of Muslim nations to hold a meeting on Sunday. The gathering is to discuss Israeli acts of violence against Palestinians and the Israeli police's use of force against protesters at Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem.

Saudi Arabia has called for foreign ministers of the world's largest body of Muslim nations to hold a meeting on Sunday. The gathering is to discuss Israeli acts of violence against Palestinians and the Israeli police's use of force against protesters at Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem. Also read: Qatar top diplomat meets Hamas' leader in Doha The kingdom will host the virtual summit, gathering ministers of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to discuss the Israeli aggression in the Palestinian territory, particularly acts of violence in the vicinity of Al-Aqsa Mosque, the body said on Saturday. Also read: Israel bombs home of Hamas chief in Gaza; violence shows no signs of abating The Saudi-headquartered OIC includes countries Iran, Turkey, Indonesia and a range of Muslim majority nations. The sanctity of Al-Aqsa mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites, is a sensitive and emotive issue for Muslims around the world. Also read: Biden calls Netanyahu, reaffirms US support for Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, other terror groups The OIC was formed 51 years ago in response to a Jewish extremist arson attack on the Al-Aqsa Mosque in east Jerusalem. The hilltop on which the mosque stands is also sacred to Jews, who revere it as the Temple Mount because it was the site of the biblical temples. Some Jews and evangelical Christians support building a new Jewish temple on the site, an idea that Muslims find alarming because they fear it would lead to the mosque being partitioned or demolished.

Saudis to host meeting of Muslim nations' foreign ministers

Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned "flagrant violations" of Palestinian rights by Israel and called for global action to end the recent spike of violence. Other Gulf states that recently established ties with Israel said a ceasefire was needed in order to maintain regional stability.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, addressing a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as hostilities between Israel and militants in Gaza entered a seventh day, condemned what he called the violation of the sanctity of Islamic holy sites.

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The foreign minister also denounced "forcible eviction of Palestinians from East Jerusalem. He urged international community to end this "dangerous escalation" and revive peace negotiations based on a two-state solution.

Pre-dawn Israeli strikes in the centre of Gaza City on Sunday brought the death toll in Gaza to 181, including 52 children, health officials said. Israel has reported 10 dead, including two children.

Islamist militant group Hamas began its rocket assault on Monday after weeks of tensions over a court case to evict several Palestinian families in East Jerusalem, and in retaliation for Israeli police clashes with Palestinians near the city's Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam's third holiest site, during the holy month of Ramadan.

Israel has retaliated with air and artillery strikes into Gaza.

The fighting comes at a sensitive time for Arab states like the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain which last year broke a longstanding taboo in the region by establishing formal ties with Israel, with tacit approval from Gulf power Saudi Arabia.

Emirati and Bahraini ministers at the virtual gathering of the 57-member OIC called for a ceasefire and stressed the importance of preserving the identity of Jerusalem, which contains sites sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hasty-us-withdrawal-a-blow-to-afghan-peace-process-says-china-385452">Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims</a>

"De-escalation and the highest degree of restraint are important to avoid dragging the region to new levels of instability," said UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem al-Hashimy.

Israel sees all of Jerusalem as its eternal and indivisible capital, while the Palestinians want the eastern section as a capital of a future state. Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem is unrecognised internationally.

Turkish foreign ministry sources said Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told the OIC that Israel should be held accountable for war crimes and that the International Criminal Court could play a role. He also called for an international protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians, they said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned "flagrant violations" of Palestinian rights by Israel and called for global action to end the recent spike of violence. Other Gulf states that recently established ties with Israel said a ceasefire was needed in order to maintain regional stability.

Saudi Arabia on Sunday condemned "flagrant violations" of Palestinian rights by Israel and called for global action to end the recent spike of violence. Other Gulf states that recently established ties with Israel said a ceasefire was needed in order to maintain regional stability. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, addressing a meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as hostilities between Israel and militants in Gaza entered a seventh day, condemned what he called the violation of the sanctity of Islamic holy sites. × The foreign minister also denounced "forcible eviction of Palestinians from East Jerusalem. He urged international community to end this "dangerous escalation" and revive peace negotiations based on a two-state solution. Pre-dawn Israeli strikes in the centre of Gaza City on Sunday brought the death toll in Gaza to 181, including 52 children, health officials said. Israel has reported 10 dead, including two children. Islamist militant group Hamas began its rocket assault on Monday after weeks of tensions over a court case to evict several Palestinian families in East Jerusalem, and in retaliation for Israeli police clashes with Palestinians near the city's Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam's third holiest site, during the holy month of Ramadan. Israel has retaliated with air and artillery strikes into Gaza. The fighting comes at a sensitive time for Arab states like the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain which last year broke a longstanding taboo in the region by establishing formal ties with Israel, with tacit approval from Gulf power Saudi Arabia. Emirati and Bahraini ministers at the virtual gathering of the 57-member OIC called for a ceasefire and stressed the importance of preserving the identity of Jerusalem, which contains sites sacred to Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Also Read | Nearly 3,000 rockets fired from Gaza towards Israel, army claims "De-escalation and the highest degree of restraint are important to avoid dragging the region to new levels of instability," said UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem al-Hashimy. Israel sees all of Jerusalem as its eternal and indivisible capital, while the Palestinians want the eastern section as a capital of a future state. Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem is unrecognised internationally. Turkish foreign ministry sources said Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told the OIC that Israel should be held accountable for war crimes and that the International Criminal Court could play a role. He also called for an international protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians, they said. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia decries Israel's 'flagrant violations' of Palestinian rights

Saudi Arabia has released construction magnate Bakr bin Laden, more than three years after his detention in a purge of the kingdom's elite that upended his vast business empire, sources told AFP.

The former chairman of the Bin Laden Group, Saudi Arabia's biggest construction company, was reunited last week with his family in the Red Sea city of Jeddah after being freed from an undisclosed detention site, two people close to his family said.

It was unclear whether the release of Bakr, a tycoon in his 70s once seen as a major powerbroker, was provisional as his movements are still curtailed, one of the sources said.

"He was released and told to stay home," he said.

"People are allowed to visit him."

His family is "overjoyed", the second source said, adding they hoped his release was not a temporary goodwill gesture by the government towards the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Bakr, a half-brother of the late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, was not reachable for comment and Saudi authorities did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment.

The Bin Laden family, branded as the Rockerfellers of Saudi Arabia for their sprawling infrastructure projects, reaped enormous wealth for decades on the back of their proximity to the Al Saud royal family.

But their fortunes tanked following the ascent of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has sought to remake the oil-reliant economy and dismantle top-down patronage networks that enriched a handful of elite families.

Bakr and two other siblings, Saad and Saleh, were snared in a November 2017 purge that saw hundreds of royals, tycoons and government ministers locked up for months in Riyadh's Ritz-Carlton hotel, then widely dubbed a five-star prison.

The unprecedented crackdown was described by the government as an anti-corruption measure, but was seen widely as a shakedown and power play by Prince Mohammed, the de facto ruler known by his acronym MBS.

Most detainees, including Saad and Saleh, were subsequently released after opaque financial "settlements" with the government.

But both brothers were barred from overseas travel and initially made to wear electronic ankle bracelets to track their movements, family sources said.

The government took management control of the debt-saddled Bin Laden group after acquiring the three brothers' collective 36.2 percent stake in the company, according to an official document seen by AFP.

Authorities also seized assets including private jets and luxury cars, the sources said.

But despite surrendering billions in assets and shares, Bakr was held in detention, with family sources saying authorities freed him temporarily once earlier in January 2019 so he could attend a family funeral.

Bakr was never put on trial despite his prolonged detention, one of the sources said, and no specific charges against him have been made public.

Saudi Arabia has released construction magnate Bakr bin Laden, more than three years after his detention in a purge of the kingdom's elite that upended his vast business empire, sources told AFP.

Saudi Arabia has released construction magnate Bakr bin Laden, more than three years after his detention in a purge of the kingdom's elite that upended his vast business empire, sources told AFP. The former chairman of the Bin Laden Group, Saudi Arabia's biggest construction company, was reunited last week with his family in the Red Sea city of Jeddah after being freed from an undisclosed detention site, two people close to his family said. It was unclear whether the release of Bakr, a tycoon in his 70s once seen as a major powerbroker, was provisional as his movements are still curtailed, one of the sources said. "He was released and told to stay home," he said. "People are allowed to visit him." His family is "overjoyed", the second source said, adding they hoped his release was not a temporary goodwill gesture by the government towards the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Bakr, a half-brother of the late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, was not reachable for comment and Saudi authorities did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. The Bin Laden family, branded as the Rockerfellers of Saudi Arabia for their sprawling infrastructure projects, reaped enormous wealth for decades on the back of their proximity to the Al Saud royal family. But their fortunes tanked following the ascent of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has sought to remake the oil-reliant economy and dismantle top-down patronage networks that enriched a handful of elite families. Bakr and two other siblings, Saad and Saleh, were snared in a November 2017 purge that saw hundreds of royals, tycoons and government ministers locked up for months in Riyadh's Ritz-Carlton hotel, then widely dubbed a five-star prison. The unprecedented crackdown was described by the government as an anti-corruption measure, but was seen widely as a shakedown and power play by Prince Mohammed, the de facto ruler known by his acronym MBS. Most detainees, including Saad and Saleh, were subsequently released after opaque financial "settlements" with the government. But both brothers were barred from overseas travel and initially made to wear electronic ankle bracelets to track their movements, family sources said. The government took management control of the debt-saddled Bin Laden group after acquiring the three brothers' collective 36.2 percent stake in the company, according to an official document seen by AFP. Authorities also seized assets including private jets and luxury cars, the sources said. But despite surrendering billions in assets and shares, Bakr was held in detention, with family sources saying authorities freed him temporarily once earlier in January 2019 so he could attend a family funeral. Bakr was never put on trial despite his prolonged detention, one of the sources said, and no specific charges against him have been made public.

Saudi releases Bin Laden patriarch held in 'Ritz crackdown': Sources

Saudi Arabia has announced 118 humanitarian projects worth over $123 million for cash-strapped Pakistan in food security, health, education and water during Prime Minister Imran Khan's two-day visit, according to a report.

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief)'s Supervisor General Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah said that the assistance was announced in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

KSrelief announced 118 humanitarian projects for Pakistan at a cost of over USD 123 million in food security, health, education, water and environmental sanitation. He said that the kingdom has provided medical and preventive aid worth over USD 1.5 million to combat the pandemic.

Khan's Special Representative for Middle East Affairs Sheikh Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi told the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) that the visit will push the march of the cooperation in the right direction to achieve the desired interests and goals, and contribute to developing the political, military, diplomatic, economic, commercial, developmental and cultural coordination and cooperation fields.

Khan met Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen and discussed developments in the Islamic world, the situation of Muslims in non-OIC countries and the issues on the OIC's agenda, in particular combating Islamophobia.

During the summit meeting between Khan and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, enhancing economic and trade relations and the challenge posed by extremism came under discussion. They confirmed their satisfaction with the firmness of bilateral military and security relations, and agreed on further cooperation to achieve common goals between the two countries, the SPA reported.

The two sides also stressed the need for concerted efforts of the Islamic world to confront extremism and violence and reject sectarianism, and strive to achieve international peace and security. They also underscored the importance of continuing joint efforts to combat the phenomenon of terrorism which is not related to any religion, race or colour, and confront all its forms and images, whatever its source, it said.

India was mentioned in the joint statement in the context of the recent understanding reached between the military authorities of Pakistan and India on a ceasefire at the Line of Control (LoC), which is based on a 2003 understanding. The two sides emphasised the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, especially the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, to ensure peace and stability in the region, it added.

The militaries of India and Pakistan, in a surprise announcement on February 25, said that they have agreed to strictly observe all agreements on a ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir and other sectors.

India has told Pakistan that it desires normal neighbourly relations with it in an environment free of terror, hostility and violence.

Saudi Arabia has announced 118 humanitarian projects worth over $123 million for cash-strapped Pakistan in food security, health, education and water during Prime Minister Imran Khan's two-day visit, according to a report.

Saudi Arabia has announced 118 humanitarian projects worth over $123 million for cash-strapped Pakistan in food security, health, education and water during Prime Minister Imran Khan's two-day visit, according to a report. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief)'s Supervisor General Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah said that the assistance was announced in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. KSrelief announced 118 humanitarian projects for Pakistan at a cost of over USD 123 million in food security, health, education, water and environmental sanitation. He said that the kingdom has provided medical and preventive aid worth over USD 1.5 million to combat the pandemic. Khan's Special Representative for Middle East Affairs Sheikh Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi told the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) that the visit will push the march of the cooperation in the right direction to achieve the desired interests and goals, and contribute to developing the political, military, diplomatic, economic, commercial, developmental and cultural coordination and cooperation fields. Khan met Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen and discussed developments in the Islamic world, the situation of Muslims in non-OIC countries and the issues on the OIC's agenda, in particular combating Islamophobia. During the summit meeting between Khan and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, enhancing economic and trade relations and the challenge posed by extremism came under discussion. They confirmed their satisfaction with the firmness of bilateral military and security relations, and agreed on further cooperation to achieve common goals between the two countries, the SPA reported. The two sides also stressed the need for concerted efforts of the Islamic world to confront extremism and violence and reject sectarianism, and strive to achieve international peace and security. They also underscored the importance of continuing joint efforts to combat the phenomenon of terrorism which is not related to any religion, race or colour, and confront all its forms and images, whatever its source, it said. India was mentioned in the joint statement in the context of the recent understanding reached between the military authorities of Pakistan and India on a ceasefire at the Line of Control (LoC), which is based on a 2003 understanding. The two sides emphasised the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, especially the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, to ensure peace and stability in the region, it added. The militaries of India and Pakistan, in a surprise announcement on February 25, said that they have agreed to strictly observe all agreements on a ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir and other sectors. India has told Pakistan that it desires normal neighbourly relations with it in an environment free of terror, hostility and violence.

Saudi Arabia announces over 100 projects for cash-strapped Pakistan during Imran Khan's visit

Saudi Arabia has announced 118 humanitarian projects worth over USD 123 million for cash-strapped Pakistan in food security, health, education and water during Prime Minister Imran Khan's two-day visit, according to a report.&nbsp;

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief)'s Supervisor General Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah said that the assistance was announced in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

KSrelief announced 118 humanitarian projects for Pakistan at a cost of over USD 123 million in food security, health, education, water and environmental sanitation.&nbsp;

He said that the kingdom has provided medical and preventive aid worth over USD 1.5 million to combat the pandemic.&nbsp;

Khan's Special Representative for Middle East Affairs Sheikh Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi told the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) that the visit will push the march of the joint cooperation in the right direction in order to achieve the desired interests and goals, and contribute to developing the political, military, diplomatic, economic, commercial, developmental and cultural coordination and cooperation fields.&nbsp;

Khan met Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen and discussed developments in the Islamic world, the situation of Muslims in non-OIC countries and the issues on the OIC's agenda, in particular combating Islamophobia.&nbsp;

During the summit meeting between Khan and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, enhancing economic and trade relations and the challenge posed by extremism came under discussion.&nbsp;

They confirmed their satisfaction with the firmness of bilateral military and security relations, and agreed on further cooperation to achieve common goals between the two countries, the SPA reported.&nbsp;

"The two sides also stressed the need for concerted efforts of the Islamic world to confront extremism and violence and reject sectarianism, and strive to achieve international peace and security.&nbsp;

"They also underscored the importance of continuing joint efforts to combat the phenomenon of terrorism which is not related to any religion, race or color, and confront all its forms and images, whatever its source," it said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has announced 118 humanitarian projects worth over USD 123 million for cash-strapped Pakistan in food security, health, education and water during Prime Minister Imran Khan's two-day visit, according to a report.

Saudi Arabia has announced 118 humanitarian projects worth over USD 123 million for cash-strapped Pakistan in food security, health, education and water during Prime Minister Imran Khan's two-day visit, according to a report. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief)'s Supervisor General Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah said that the assistance was announced in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. KSrelief announced 118 humanitarian projects for Pakistan at a cost of over USD 123 million in food security, health, education, water and environmental sanitation. He said that the kingdom has provided medical and preventive aid worth over USD 1.5 million to combat the pandemic. Khan's Special Representative for Middle East Affairs Sheikh Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi told the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) that the visit will push the march of the joint cooperation in the right direction in order to achieve the desired interests and goals, and contribute to developing the political, military, diplomatic, economic, commercial, developmental and cultural coordination and cooperation fields. Khan met Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen and discussed developments in the Islamic world, the situation of Muslims in non-OIC countries and the issues on the OIC's agenda, in particular combating Islamophobia. During the summit meeting between Khan and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, enhancing economic and trade relations and the challenge posed by extremism came under discussion. They confirmed their satisfaction with the firmness of bilateral military and security relations, and agreed on further cooperation to achieve common goals between the two countries, the SPA reported. "The two sides also stressed the need for concerted efforts of the Islamic world to confront extremism and violence and reject sectarianism, and strive to achieve international peace and security. "They also underscored the importance of continuing joint efforts to combat the phenomenon of terrorism which is not related to any religion, race or color, and confront all its forms and images, whatever its source," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi announces over 100 projects for cash-strapped Pak during Imran's visit 

Iran confirmed publicly for the first time on Monday that it is in talks with its regional arch rival Saudi Arabia, saying it would do what it could to resolve issues between them.&nbsp;

"De-escalation of tensions between the two Muslim countries in the Persian Gulf region is in the interest of both nations and the region," foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said in a televised weekly news conference.&nbsp;

Iran was waiting for the outcome of the talks, he said: "We welcome resolving of the issues that have existed between the two countries ... We will use our best efforts in this regard."&nbsp;

Ambassador Rayed Krimly, head of policy planning at Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry, last week said that talks between Saudi Arabia and Iran were aimed at reducing regional tensions. He said it was too early to judge the outcome and Riyadh wanted to see 'verifiable deeds'.&nbsp;

Iran and Saudi Arabia have been locked in a rivalry that has played out in proxy conflicts across the region, from Yemen to Syria to Iraq. The two countries cut diplomatic ties in 2016. Middle East officials and sources said last month that they had held two rounds of talks. &nbsp;

The arrival of President Joe Biden in the United States has altered the diplomatic calculus across the Middle East. Washington aims to restart a nuclear deal with Iran that Biden's predecessor Donald Trump abandoned, and has called for Saudi Arabia to end a war against Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi forces.&nbsp;

Some sources said last month that Tehran had promised to use its influence to halt Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, in return asking Riyadh to support the nuclear talks. &nbsp;

Nuclear talks in Vienna between Tehran and world powers aim to bring Washington and Iran back into full compliance with the nuclear deal. In retaliation for sanctions reimposed since 2018 by Trump, Iran has breached nuclear restrictions under the pact.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Iran confirmed publicly for the first time on Monday that it is in talks with its regional arch rival Saudi Arabia, saying it would do what it could to resolve issues between them.

Iran confirmed publicly for the first time on Monday that it is in talks with its regional arch rival Saudi Arabia, saying it would do what it could to resolve issues between them. "De-escalation of tensions between the two Muslim countries in the Persian Gulf region is in the interest of both nations and the region," foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said in a televised weekly news conference. Iran was waiting for the outcome of the talks, he said: "We welcome resolving of the issues that have existed between the two countries ... We will use our best efforts in this regard." Ambassador Rayed Krimly, head of policy planning at Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry, last week said that talks between Saudi Arabia and Iran were aimed at reducing regional tensions. He said it was too early to judge the outcome and Riyadh wanted to see 'verifiable deeds'. Iran and Saudi Arabia have been locked in a rivalry that has played out in proxy conflicts across the region, from Yemen to Syria to Iraq. The two countries cut diplomatic ties in 2016. Middle East officials and sources said last month that they had held two rounds of talks. The arrival of President Joe Biden in the United States has altered the diplomatic calculus across the Middle East. Washington aims to restart a nuclear deal with Iran that Biden's predecessor Donald Trump abandoned, and has called for Saudi Arabia to end a war against Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi forces. Some sources said last month that Tehran had promised to use its influence to halt Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, in return asking Riyadh to support the nuclear talks. Nuclear talks in Vienna between Tehran and world powers aim to bring Washington and Iran back into full compliance with the nuclear deal. In retaliation for sanctions reimposed since 2018 by Trump, Iran has breached nuclear restrictions under the pact. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran confirms talks with Saudi Arabia, promises best efforts 

Saudi Arabia has announced its plan to hold this year's Haj pilgrimage under Covod safety measures that will ensure preserving the health and safety of the worshippers, state media reported. 
 
The health authorities in the Kingdom continue to assess conditions and take all measures to protect the health and well-being of the public, state media quoted the Ministry of Haj and Umrah as saying on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca">Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca</a> 
 
It added that organisation details of the Haj season will be announced later, Xinhua news agency reported. 
 
The Ministry did not mention whether foreign pilgrims will be allowed to attend this season. 
 
The Kingdom had organised an exceptional Haj season last year with a limited number of pilgrims as part of precautionary measures against the spread of Covid. 
 
Saudi Arabia has so far reported 426,384 confirmed Covid cases, with 7,072 deaths and 409,740 recoveries.

Saudi Arabia has announced its plan to hold this year's Haj pilgrimage under Covod safety measures that will ensure preserving the health and safety of the worshippers, state media reported.

Saudi Arabia has announced its plan to hold this year's Haj pilgrimage under Covod safety measures that will ensure preserving the health and safety of the worshippers, state media reported. The health authorities in the Kingdom continue to assess conditions and take all measures to protect the health and well-being of the public, state media quoted the Ministry of Haj and Umrah as saying on Sunday. Also read | Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca It added that organisation details of the Haj season will be announced later, Xinhua news agency reported. The Ministry did not mention whether foreign pilgrims will be allowed to attend this season. The Kingdom had organised an exceptional Haj season last year with a limited number of pilgrims as part of precautionary measures against the spread of Covid. Saudi Arabia has so far reported 426,384 confirmed Covid cases, with 7,072 deaths and 409,740 recoveries.

Saudi Arabia to hold Haj under Covid safety measures

Saudi Arabia has emphasised the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve their outstanding matters, including the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Office on Saturday night released a joint statement agreed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia after Prime Minister Imran Khan held high-level talks with Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman.&nbsp;

Khan is on an official visit to Saudi Arabia from May 7 to May 9.&nbsp;

"The two sides emphasised the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, especially Jammu and Kashmir issue, to ensure peace and stability in the region," according to the joint statement.&nbsp;

The Crown Prince welcomed the recent understanding reached between the military authorities of Pakistan and India regarding ceasefire at the Line of Control (LoC), which is based on a 2003 understanding between Pakistan and India.&nbsp;

The militaries of India and Pakistan, in a surprise announcement on February 25, said that they have agreed to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir and other sectors.&nbsp;

India has told Pakistan that it desires normal neighbourly relations with it in an environment free of terror, hostility and violence. &nbsp;

During Khan's Saudi visit, the two sides also reviewed all facets of bilateral cooperation and discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest and agreed to further strengthen the relationship in diverse fields.&nbsp;

They signed an agreement on the establishment of the Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council (SPSCC). An MoU on combating illicit traffic in narcotics, drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals was also signed.&nbsp;

They also inked a framework MoU between Saudi Fund for Development and Pakistan for financing projects in energy, hydropower generation, Infrastructure, transport communication and water resource development.&nbsp;

Cooperation agreements in the field of combating crimes and on the transfer of convicted prisoners were also signed.&nbsp;

The two leaders also stressed the need for concerted efforts by the Muslim countries to confront extremism and violence, reject sectarianism, and strive to achieve international peace and security.&nbsp;

They called for joint efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has emphasised the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve their outstanding matters, including the Kashmir issue. Pakistan Foreign Office on Saturday night released a joint statement agreed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia after Prime Minister Imran Khan held high-level talks with Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia has emphasised the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve their outstanding matters, including the Kashmir issue. Pakistan Foreign Office on Saturday night released a joint statement agreed between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia after Prime Minister Imran Khan held high-level talks with Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. Khan is on an official visit to Saudi Arabia from May 7 to May 9. "The two sides emphasised the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, especially Jammu and Kashmir issue, to ensure peace and stability in the region," according to the joint statement. The Crown Prince welcomed the recent understanding reached between the military authorities of Pakistan and India regarding ceasefire at the Line of Control (LoC), which is based on a 2003 understanding between Pakistan and India. The militaries of India and Pakistan, in a surprise announcement on February 25, said that they have agreed to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir and other sectors. India has told Pakistan that it desires normal neighbourly relations with it in an environment free of terror, hostility and violence. During Khan's Saudi visit, the two sides also reviewed all facets of bilateral cooperation and discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest and agreed to further strengthen the relationship in diverse fields. They signed an agreement on the establishment of the Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council (SPSCC). An MoU on combating illicit traffic in narcotics, drugs, psychotropic substances and precursor chemicals was also signed. They also inked a framework MoU between Saudi Fund for Development and Pakistan for financing projects in energy, hydropower generation, Infrastructure, transport communication and water resource development. Cooperation agreements in the field of combating crimes and on the transfer of convicted prisoners were also signed. The two leaders also stressed the need for concerted efforts by the Muslim countries to confront extremism and violence, reject sectarianism, and strive to achieve international peace and security. They called for joint efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia calls for dialogue between India, Pak to resolve issues

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom.

Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia on Twitter on Friday. He thanked Saudi energy minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud.

In addition to the LMO, Saudi Arabia has also indicated willingness to supply ISO containers to India for the next six months.

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6. My deep appreciation to HRH Abdulaziz, HE Dr Sultan Jaber, HE Sherida al-Kaabi for their extended support &amp; special gesture of solidarity with India through the offer of ISO Containers for the next 6 months.Assurance of steady commercial supply of LMO to India is also welcomed <a href="https://t.co/PRZMNChT7f">pic.twitter.com/PRZMNChT7f</a>
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp/status/1390690145079218184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India is still in the clutches of the pandemic. Government data available on Saturday (May 8) showed that a record 4187 fatalities had occurred in a single day. This took the total death toll to 238,270.

401,078 new infections were reported in a day, pushing the tally to 21,892,676.

Hospitals in many parts of the country are still facing shortage of medical Oxygen. Although vaccination drive has started and every Indian above the age of 18 is eligible, many states have been forced to temporarily stop the vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage.

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom. Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia on Twitter on Friday. He thanked Saudi energy minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. In addition to the LMO, Saudi Arabia has also indicated willingness to supply ISO containers to India for the next six months. 6. My deep appreciation to HRH Abdulaziz, HE Dr Sultan Jaber, HE Sherida al-Kaabi for their extended support & special gesture of solidarity with India through the offer of ISO Containers for the next 6 months.Assurance of steady commercial supply of LMO to India is also welcomed pic.twitter.com/PRZMNChT7f — Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) May 7, 2021 × India is still in the clutches of the pandemic. Government data available on Saturday (May 8) showed that a record 4187 fatalities had occurred in a single day. This took the total death toll to 238,270. 401,078 new infections were reported in a day, pushing the tally to 21,892,676. Hospitals in many parts of the country are still facing shortage of medical Oxygen. Although vaccination drive has started and every Indian above the age of 18 is eligible, many states have been forced to temporarily stop the vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage.

Saudi Arabia steps up, assures supply of medical Oxygen to India

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is on a three-day visit on Friday to Saudi Arabia, a traditionally close ally but with whom relations have been strained for months.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on 3-day visit to Saudi

Saudi Arabia and its long-standing ally Pakistan on Saturday signed several agreements on Saturday. Both countries have vowed to reser ties which have been strained over policy disagreements on Kashmir issue.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was given a warm welcome by&nbsp;Saudi official in Jeddah. This is Khan's seventh Saudi visit after he took over as prime minister of the country.

Imran Khan was greeted by Saudi Arabia's de-facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the airport, before holding talks with Saudi officials at Jeddah's Al-Salam Palace.

"They affirmed the depth of relations between the two brotherly countries and underscored the importance of expanding and intensifying aspects of bilateral cooperation and coordination," a Saudi statement said.

Although the kingdom was the first foreign country Khan visited after taking office, Riyadh appeared frustrated with Islamabad last year.&nbsp;

Last year, Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations were strained.

In a sharply worded statement in August, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi called on the Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to convene a high-level meeting on Kashmir.&nbsp;

The call raised eyebrows in Riyadh, where it was widely seen as a warning that Pakistan was preparing to call for a session outside OIC auspices.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia prides itself on its role as guardian of Islam's holiest sites and is particularly sensitive about any move that might undermine its leadership of the 57-member pan-Islamic body.&nbsp;

And while the wealthy nation has supported Pakistan with billions of dollars in aid and loans in recent years, observers say the kingdom is also keen not to upset India, a key business partner and importer of Saudi oil.

The kingdom recalled $1 billion of a $3 billion loan to cash-strapped Pakistan, and an expired multi-billion-dollar oil credit facility to Islamabad has not been renewed, a diplomatic source told AFP in September.&nbsp;

Prior to that, Pakistan rebuffed calls to send ground troops to support the troubled Saudi-led military campaign against Yemen's Huthi rebels.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia and its long-standing ally Pakistan on Saturday signed several agreements on Saturday. Both countries have vowed to reser ties which have been strained over policy disagreements on Kashmir issue.

Saudi Arabia and its long-standing ally Pakistan on Saturday signed several agreements on Saturday. Both countries have vowed to reser ties which have been strained over policy disagreements on Kashmir issue. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan was given a warm welcome by Saudi official in Jeddah. This is Khan's seventh Saudi visit after he took over as prime minister of the country. Imran Khan was greeted by Saudi Arabia's de-facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the airport, before holding talks with Saudi officials at Jeddah's Al-Salam Palace. "They affirmed the depth of relations between the two brotherly countries and underscored the importance of expanding and intensifying aspects of bilateral cooperation and coordination," a Saudi statement said. Although the kingdom was the first foreign country Khan visited after taking office, Riyadh appeared frustrated with Islamabad last year. Last year, Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations were strained. In a sharply worded statement in August, Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi called on the Saudi-based Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to convene a high-level meeting on Kashmir. The call raised eyebrows in Riyadh, where it was widely seen as a warning that Pakistan was preparing to call for a session outside OIC auspices. Saudi Arabia prides itself on its role as guardian of Islam's holiest sites and is particularly sensitive about any move that might undermine its leadership of the 57-member pan-Islamic body. And while the wealthy nation has supported Pakistan with billions of dollars in aid and loans in recent years, observers say the kingdom is also keen not to upset India, a key business partner and importer of Saudi oil. The kingdom recalled $1 billion of a $3 billion loan to cash-strapped Pakistan, and an expired multi-billion-dollar oil credit facility to Islamabad has not been renewed, a diplomatic source told AFP in September. Prior to that, Pakistan rebuffed calls to send ground troops to support the troubled Saudi-led military campaign against Yemen's Huthi rebels. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia to reset strained ties

Iraq has hosted more than one round of talks between regional foes Iran and Saudi Arabia, Iraqi President Barham Salih said on Wednesday.

Salih made his remarks during an interview broadcast live online with the Beirut Institute think tank. He gave no more details.

Diplomats hope the opening of direct channels between Iran and Saudi Arabia will signal a calming of tensions across the Middle East after years of hostilities that have brought the region close to a full-scale conflict.

Baghdad hosted talks between officials from its two neighbours and mutual adversaries on April 9 in the only round of talks to have been previously reported.

Asked how many rounds of Saudi-Iranian talks Iraq had hosted, Salih replied: "More than once."

"It is ongoing, and it is important and it is significant, and for Iraq to be able to play that convening role between these regional actors is important," he added, although he gave no further details on the talks.

Washington and Tehran have engaged in indirect talks in Vienna that seek to revive an international pact reached in 2015 that constrained Iran's nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief.

Former US President Donald Trump pulled out the deal in 2018 and imposed harsh sanctions on Iran and its regional allies, increasing tension as Iran-backed militias attacked US forces in Iraq and a series of attacks hit oil installations and tankers in the Gulf, where Washington counts Arab states such as Saudi among its close allies.

The killing of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in a US air strike in Baghdad in January 2020 brought the region close to war. Iran responded with limited missile strikes against a US base in Iraq, the first such direct attack, but took no further action.

Iraqis hope for a general regional detente that would allow their country to rebuild instead of being used as an arena for US, Gulf Arab and Iranian score-settling.

Iraq is trying to rein in powerful Iran-backed militias and deal with a resurgent Islamic State - the Sunni hardline Islamist group that took over a third of Iraq in 2014 and was beaten militarily in 2017 by US forces, the Iraqi military, Kurdish fighters and Iran-aligned paramilitaries.

"The war against ISIS (Islamic State) and terrorism cannot be won by (only) military means," Salih said. "We have succeeded in liberating our land with the help of our friends but terrorism remains."

He added that he wished to see a solution to the Iran-US rivalry that has fuelled violence in Iraq.

"The Middle East has been condemned to a cycle of conflict and instability over the last few decades... It's time to move beyond," Salih said.

Iraq has hosted more than one round of talks between regional foes Iran and Saudi Arabia, Iraqi President Barham Salih said on Wednesday. Salih made his remarks during an interview broadcast live online with the Beirut Institute think tank.

Iraq has hosted more than one round of talks between regional foes Iran and Saudi Arabia, Iraqi President Barham Salih said on Wednesday. Salih made his remarks during an interview broadcast live online with the Beirut Institute think tank. He gave no more details. Diplomats hope the opening of direct channels between Iran and Saudi Arabia will signal a calming of tensions across the Middle East after years of hostilities that have brought the region close to a full-scale conflict. Baghdad hosted talks between officials from its two neighbours and mutual adversaries on April 9 in the only round of talks to have been previously reported. Asked how many rounds of Saudi-Iranian talks Iraq had hosted, Salih replied: "More than once." "It is ongoing, and it is important and it is significant, and for Iraq to be able to play that convening role between these regional actors is important," he added, although he gave no further details on the talks. Washington and Tehran have engaged in indirect talks in Vienna that seek to revive an international pact reached in 2015 that constrained Iran's nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief. Former US President Donald Trump pulled out the deal in 2018 and imposed harsh sanctions on Iran and its regional allies, increasing tension as Iran-backed militias attacked US forces in Iraq and a series of attacks hit oil installations and tankers in the Gulf, where Washington counts Arab states such as Saudi among its close allies. The killing of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in a US air strike in Baghdad in January 2020 brought the region close to war. Iran responded with limited missile strikes against a US base in Iraq, the first such direct attack, but took no further action. Iraqis hope for a general regional detente that would allow their country to rebuild instead of being used as an arena for US, Gulf Arab and Iranian score-settling. Iraq is trying to rein in powerful Iran-backed militias and deal with a resurgent Islamic State - the Sunni hardline Islamist group that took over a third of Iraq in 2014 and was beaten militarily in 2017 by US forces, the Iraqi military, Kurdish fighters and Iran-aligned paramilitaries. "The war against ISIS (Islamic State) and terrorism cannot be won by (only) military means," Salih said. "We have succeeded in liberating our land with the help of our friends but terrorism remains." He added that he wished to see a solution to the Iran-US rivalry that has fuelled violence in Iraq. "The Middle East has been condemned to a cycle of conflict and instability over the last few decades... It's time to move beyond," Salih said.

Saudi Arabia, Iran held talks more than once in Iraq: President

Saudi Arabia is set to permit citizens immunised from Covid-19 to travel abroad from May 17, said the country's interior ministry. This developed has come more than a year after Saudis were barred from external trips.

As per the ministry, three categories of the people would be considered immunised -- those who have received two doses of the coronavirus vaccine, those administered a single dose at least 14 days prior to travel, and people who have recovered from the infection within the last six months.

Saudis under the age of 18 -- an age group that is not receiving vaccines -- would also be allowed to travel from May 17, provided they carry an insurance policy approved by the central bank, the ministry said in a statement published by the official Saudi Press Agency.

"The decision to lift the suspension on citizens travelling outside Saudi Arabia will go into effect at 1:00 am on May 17," the ministry said, adding that the kingdom will re-open its land, sea and air borders.

The policy represents an incentive for citizens, barred from travelling abroad since the pandemic began, to get vaccinated.

The kingdom's health ministry said it has administered more than nine million coronavirus vaccine doses, in a country with a population of over 34 million.

The country has reported more than 419,000 coronavirus infections and nearly 7,000 deaths from Covid-19.

Last month, Saudi Arabia permitted only people immunised against Covid-19 to perform the year-round umrah pilgrimage from the start of Ramadan, the holy fasting month for Muslims.

It is unclear whether that policy, which comes amid an uptick in coronavirus infections in the kingdom, would be extended to the annual hajj pilgrimage later this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia is set to permit citizens immunised from Covid-19 to travel abroad from May 17, said the country's interior ministry. This developed has come more than a year after Saudis were barred from external trips.

Saudi Arabia is set to permit citizens immunised from Covid-19 to travel abroad from May 17, said the country's interior ministry. This developed has come more than a year after Saudis were barred from external trips. As per the ministry, three categories of the people would be considered immunised -- those who have received two doses of the coronavirus vaccine, those administered a single dose at least 14 days prior to travel, and people who have recovered from the infection within the last six months. Saudis under the age of 18 -- an age group that is not receiving vaccines -- would also be allowed to travel from May 17, provided they carry an insurance policy approved by the central bank, the ministry said in a statement published by the official Saudi Press Agency. "The decision to lift the suspension on citizens travelling outside Saudi Arabia will go into effect at 1:00 am on May 17," the ministry said, adding that the kingdom will re-open its land, sea and air borders. The policy represents an incentive for citizens, barred from travelling abroad since the pandemic began, to get vaccinated. The kingdom's health ministry said it has administered more than nine million coronavirus vaccine doses, in a country with a population of over 34 million. The country has reported more than 419,000 coronavirus infections and nearly 7,000 deaths from Covid-19. Last month, Saudi Arabia permitted only people immunised against Covid-19 to perform the year-round umrah pilgrimage from the start of Ramadan, the holy fasting month for Muslims. It is unclear whether that policy, which comes amid an uptick in coronavirus infections in the kingdom, would be extended to the annual hajj pilgrimage later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia to allow 'immunised' citizens to travel abroad

Aramco is the biggest oil company in the world. The jewel in Saudi Arabia's crown. A nation could soon own 1 per cent of Aramco.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman has said that 'a huge country' was willing to buy a 1 per cent stake in Aramco. He did not take any names.

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Which country is the Crown Prince referring to? Is it China?

As per Reuters, Saudi Arabia is in talks with several Chinese national oil companies for investments. The most likely investor is China Investment Corporation or CIC.

It is currently in talks for the acquisition.

A stake of 1 per cent would amount to around 19 billion dollars based on Aramco's current capitalisation.

The deal has not been finalised yet. Mohammed Bin Salman has refused to divulge the details.

"Aramco selling shares will continue, but I can't announce details, but there might be something very soon, and there might be some other offering to international investors within the next year or two.I don't want to give promises but there's a discussion on the acquisition of one percent (of Aramco) by one of the world's leading energy companies, and this will be a very important deal to boost Aramco's sales in that country, which I can't name but it's a huge country. If it took the 1% it will boost Aramco's sales in both Saudi and that country itself," said Mohammed Bin Salman.

The deal is not surprising. Oil has always been the backbone of Saudi-China relationship. Beijing is the biggest buyer of Saudi crude.

In 2020 it imported more oil from the Kingdom than it did from any other country. And this year, the CEO of Aramco said that the company will ensure that China remains its biggest priority for the next 50 years &amp; beyond.

The Saudi Crown Prince says this does not mean other countries are any less of a priority.

"We are working on producing new partnerships with everyone, whether Russia, India, China, Latin America, Africa or others, for the interest of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, without harming any other country in the world. Today, China announced that Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner, also India and Russia. Saudi Arabia is still a strategic partner for the united states of America. We are enhancing our interest with all countries for the sake of our interest, their interest and the international interest," he said.

Riyadh has economic diversification on its mind. By all means it is working in its own interest. but Beijing is known for its predatory partnerships, owning a tiny stake in a prized company of another country. So this is not just a financial deal. It is also a geopolitical one. 
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Aramco is the biggest oil company in the world. The jewel in Saudi Arabia's crown. A nation could soon own 1 per cent of Aramco. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman has said that 'a huge country' was willing to buy a 1 per cent stake in Aramco.

Aramco is the biggest oil company in the world. The jewel in Saudi Arabia's crown. A nation could soon own 1 per cent of Aramco. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman has said that 'a huge country' was willing to buy a 1 per cent stake in Aramco. He did not take any names. Which country is the Crown Prince referring to? Is it China? As per Reuters, Saudi Arabia is in talks with several Chinese national oil companies for investments. The most likely investor is China Investment Corporation or CIC. It is currently in talks for the acquisition. A stake of 1 per cent would amount to around 19 billion dollars based on Aramco's current capitalisation. The deal has not been finalised yet. Mohammed Bin Salman has refused to divulge the details. "Aramco selling shares will continue, but I can't announce details, but there might be something very soon, and there might be some other offering to international investors within the next year or two.I don't want to give promises but there's a discussion on the acquisition of one percent (of Aramco) by one of the world's leading energy companies, and this will be a very important deal to boost Aramco's sales in that country, which I can't name but it's a huge country. If it took the 1% it will boost Aramco's sales in both Saudi and that country itself," said Mohammed Bin Salman. The deal is not surprising. Oil has always been the backbone of Saudi-China relationship. Beijing is the biggest buyer of Saudi crude. In 2020 it imported more oil from the Kingdom than it did from any other country. And this year, the CEO of Aramco said that the company will ensure that China remains its biggest priority for the next 50 years & beyond. The Saudi Crown Prince says this does not mean other countries are any less of a priority. "We are working on producing new partnerships with everyone, whether Russia, India, China, Latin America, Africa or others, for the interest of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, without harming any other country in the world. Today, China announced that Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner, also India and Russia. Saudi Arabia is still a strategic partner for the united states of America. We are enhancing our interest with all countries for the sake of our interest, their interest and the international interest," he said. Riyadh has economic diversification on its mind. By all means it is working in its own interest. but Beijing is known for its predatory partnerships, owning a tiny stake in a prized company of another country. So this is not just a financial deal. It is also a geopolitical one.

China makes geopolitical calculations through Aramco stake

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said that kingdom is in discussions with the leading global energy firm to sell 1 percent of state oil firm Saudi Aramco's share holding to boost its sales.

World Business Watch: Prince Salman says Saudi Arabia in talks to sell 1% stake in Aramco

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