Saudi&nbsp;Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in remarks aired on Tuesday that the United States was a strategic partner and that Riyadh had only a few differences with the Biden administration which it was working to resolve.

The kingdom's de facto ruler also said&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia would not accept any pressure or interference in its internal affairs.

President Joe Biden, who has said he would only speak with his&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;counterpart King Salman, has taken a tougher stand with Riyadh on its human rights record and the Yemen war than predecessor Donald Trump, who had strong ties with Prince Mohammed.

"We are more than 90 per cent&nbsp;in agreement with the Biden administration when it comes to&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;and US&nbsp;interests and we are working to strengthen these interests," the prince said.

"The matters we disagree on represent less than 10 per cent&nbsp;and we are working to find solutions and understandings ... there is no doubt that the United States is a strategic partner," he added.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia is also building strategic partnerships with Russia, India and China, he said in an interview on&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;TV.

The Biden administration earlier this year released a US&nbsp;intelligence report implicating the crown prince in the 2018 murder of&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;journalist Jamal Khashoggi but spared him any direct punishment. The prince denies any involvement.

It has also withdrawn support for offensive operations by a&nbsp;Saudi-led coalition battling Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis.

The conflict is seen as a proxy war between&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia and Iran which are locked in a rivalry for regional influence.

Prince Mohammed said his country wanted good ties with Iran, with which Riyadh severed diplomatic ties in 2016.

"Our problem is with Iran's negative behaviour," he said, mentioning Tehran's nuclear programme, missiles programme and support for proxies around the region.

"We are working with our regional and global partners to find solutions to these problems and we hope to overcome them for good relations that benefit everyone," he added.

Regional sources have said that&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;and Iranian officials held direct talks in Iraq this month aimed at easing tensions with discussions focused on Yemen and efforts to revive global powers' 2015 nuclear accord with Tehran.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia supported Trump's decision in 2018 to quit the pact and reimpose sanctions on Iran. Tehran responded by breaching several nuclear restrictions.

Asked about Yemen, Prince Mohammed said no state wanted an armed militia along its borders and urged the Houthis to "sit at the negotiating table."

Riyadh last month presented a nationwide ceasefire proposal for Yemen but the Houthis have yet to accept it.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in remarks aired on Tuesday that the United States was a strategic partner and that Riyadh had only a few differences with the Biden administration which it was working to resolve.

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in remarks aired on Tuesday that the United States was a strategic partner and that Riyadh had only a few differences with the Biden administration which it was working to resolve. The kingdom's de facto ruler also said Saudi Arabia would not accept any pressure or interference in its internal affairs. President Joe Biden, who has said he would only speak with his Saudi counterpart King Salman, has taken a tougher stand with Riyadh on its human rights record and the Yemen war than predecessor Donald Trump, who had strong ties with Prince Mohammed. "We are more than 90 per cent in agreement with the Biden administration when it comes to Saudi and US interests and we are working to strengthen these interests," the prince said. "The matters we disagree on represent less than 10 per cent and we are working to find solutions and understandings ... there is no doubt that the United States is a strategic partner," he added. Saudi Arabia is also building strategic partnerships with Russia, India and China, he said in an interview on Saudi TV. The Biden administration earlier this year released a US intelligence report implicating the crown prince in the 2018 murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi but spared him any direct punishment. The prince denies any involvement. It has also withdrawn support for offensive operations by a Saudi-led coalition battling Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis. The conflict is seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran which are locked in a rivalry for regional influence. Prince Mohammed said his country wanted good ties with Iran, with which Riyadh severed diplomatic ties in 2016. "Our problem is with Iran's negative behaviour," he said, mentioning Tehran's nuclear programme, missiles programme and support for proxies around the region. "We are working with our regional and global partners to find solutions to these problems and we hope to overcome them for good relations that benefit everyone," he added. Regional sources have said that Saudi and Iranian officials held direct talks in Iraq this month aimed at easing tensions with discussions focused on Yemen and efforts to revive global powers' 2015 nuclear accord with Tehran. Saudi Arabia supported Trump's decision in 2018 to quit the pact and reimpose sanctions on Iran. Tehran responded by breaching several nuclear restrictions. Asked about Yemen, Prince Mohammed said no state wanted an armed militia along its borders and urged the Houthis to "sit at the negotiating table." Riyadh last month presented a nationwide ceasefire proposal for Yemen but the Houthis have yet to accept it. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia still has some differences with Biden administration, says Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia's crown prince on Tuesday struck a conciliatory tone towards the kingdom's arch-nemesis Iran, saying he sought "good" relations, after sources said the rivals held secret talks in Baghdad.

The two countries, locked&nbsp;in a fierce struggle for regional&nbsp;dominance, cut ties in 2016 after Iranian protesters attacked&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;diplomatic missions following the kingdom's execution of a revered Shiite cleric.

"Iran is a neighbouring country, and all we aspire for is a good and special relationship with Iran,"&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in a television interview broadcast late Tuesday.

"We do not want Iran's situation to be difficult. On the contrary, we want Iran to grow... and to push the region and the world towards prosperity."

He added that Riyadh was working with regional and global partners to find solutions to Tehran's "negative behaviour".

That marks a change in tone compared to Prince Mohammed's previous interviews, in which he lashed out at Tehran, accusing it of fuelling regional insecurity.

The prince did not mention any negotiations with Tehran.

The talks in Baghdad, facilitated by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported that a first meeting had been held on April 9.

An Iraqi government official confirmed the talks to AFP, while a Western diplomat said he had been "briefed in advance" about the effort to "broker a better relationship and decrease tensions".

Riyadh has officially denied the talks in its state-backed media while Tehran has stayed mum, asserting only that it has "always welcomed" dialogue with&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia.

The initiative comes at a time of shifting power dynamics, as US President Joe Biden is seeking to revive the tattered 2015 nuclear deal that was abandoned by Donald Trump.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia&nbsp;and Iran have backed opposite sides of several regional conflicts, from Syria to Yemen, where a&nbsp;Saudi-led coalition is fighting the Huthi rebels.

Iran supports the Huthi rebels, who are battling the&nbsp;Saudi-led military coalition that intervened in Yemen's war in 2015.

The rebels have also stepped up drone and missile strikes on&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;targets, including its oil facilities.

In his interview, Prince Mohammed renewed calls for a ceasefire and negotiations with the rebels.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince on Tuesday struck a conciliatory tone towards the kingdom's arch-nemesis Iran, saying he sought "good" relations, after sources said the rivals held secret talks in Baghdad.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince on Tuesday struck a conciliatory tone towards the kingdom's arch-nemesis Iran, saying he sought "good" relations, after sources said the rivals held secret talks in Baghdad. The two countries, locked in a fierce struggle for regional dominance, cut ties in 2016 after Iranian protesters attacked Saudi diplomatic missions following the kingdom's execution of a revered Shiite cleric. "Iran is a neighbouring country, and all we aspire for is a good and special relationship with Iran," Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in a television interview broadcast late Tuesday. "We do not want Iran's situation to be difficult. On the contrary, we want Iran to grow... and to push the region and the world towards prosperity." He added that Riyadh was working with regional and global partners to find solutions to Tehran's "negative behaviour". That marks a change in tone compared to Prince Mohammed's previous interviews, in which he lashed out at Tehran, accusing it of fuelling regional insecurity. The prince did not mention any negotiations with Tehran. The talks in Baghdad, facilitated by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported that a first meeting had been held on April 9. An Iraqi government official confirmed the talks to AFP, while a Western diplomat said he had been "briefed in advance" about the effort to "broker a better relationship and decrease tensions". Riyadh has officially denied the talks in its state-backed media while Tehran has stayed mum, asserting only that it has "always welcomed" dialogue with Saudi Arabia. The initiative comes at a time of shifting power dynamics, as US President Joe Biden is seeking to revive the tattered 2015 nuclear deal that was abandoned by Donald Trump. Saudi Arabia and Iran have backed opposite sides of several regional conflicts, from Syria to Yemen, where a Saudi-led coalition is fighting the Huthi rebels. Iran supports the Huthi rebels, who are battling the Saudi-led military coalition that intervened in Yemen's war in 2015. The rebels have also stepped up drone and missile strikes on Saudi targets, including its oil facilities. In his interview, Prince Mohammed renewed calls for a ceasefire and negotiations with the rebels.

Saudi prince strikes conciliatory tone with rival Iran

Saudi Arabia said on Tuesday it had intercepted an explosive-laden boat off the Red Sea port of Yanbu after maritime security firms cited 'unconfirmed reports' of an attack on a vessel in the area.&nbsp;

A Saudi defence ministry statement on state media did not say whether there had been any damage as a result of the operation by the Saudi navy to intercept and destroy the remote-controlled boat.&nbsp;

Security firm Dryad Global had earlier said it received 'unconfirmed reports' that a vessel, possibly the oil tanker NCC Dammam owned by a unit of Saudi firm Bahri, had been attacked off Yanbu. &nbsp;

Chief executive Abdullah Aldubaikhi said that no vessels owned by National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia (Bahri) had been attacked.&nbsp;

British maritime security company Ambry also cited reports of an incident and said smoke was seen rising from a vessel. United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said it was aware of reports of an incident approximately two nautical miles from Yanbu and that investigations were ongoing.&nbsp;

Vessels have previously come under attack in Red Sea waters.&nbsp;

In December, Saudi Arabia said a tanker anchored at the Jeddah port was hit by an explosive-laden boat. This followed a separate incident at another Saudi terminal on the Red Sea where a tanker was damaged by an explosion.&nbsp;

A Saudi Arabian-led military coalition engaged in Yemen has in the past foiled attempted assaults using explosive-laden boats it says are launched by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement.&nbsp;

The Saudi defence ministry said it was investigating, who was behind Tuesday's 'hostile attempt'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia said on Tuesday it had intercepted an explosive-laden boat off the Red Sea port of Yanbu after maritime security firms cited 'unconfirmed reports' of an attack on a vessel in the area.

Saudi Arabia said on Tuesday it had intercepted an explosive-laden boat off the Red Sea port of Yanbu after maritime security firms cited 'unconfirmed reports' of an attack on a vessel in the area. A Saudi defence ministry statement on state media did not say whether there had been any damage as a result of the operation by the Saudi navy to intercept and destroy the remote-controlled boat. Security firm Dryad Global had earlier said it received 'unconfirmed reports' that a vessel, possibly the oil tanker NCC Dammam owned by a unit of Saudi firm Bahri, had been attacked off Yanbu. Chief executive Abdullah Aldubaikhi said that no vessels owned by National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia (Bahri) had been attacked. British maritime security company Ambry also cited reports of an incident and said smoke was seen rising from a vessel. United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said it was aware of reports of an incident approximately two nautical miles from Yanbu and that investigations were ongoing. Vessels have previously come under attack in Red Sea waters. In December, Saudi Arabia said a tanker anchored at the Jeddah port was hit by an explosive-laden boat. This followed a separate incident at another Saudi terminal on the Red Sea where a tanker was damaged by an explosion. A Saudi Arabian-led military coalition engaged in Yemen has in the past foiled attempted assaults using explosive-laden boats it says are launched by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The Saudi defence ministry said it was investigating, who was behind Tuesday's 'hostile attempt'. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia foils boat attack off Yanbu 

Ramayan & Mahabharat will soon be taught in Saudi Arabia. Crown Prince MBS has directed schools to include the 2 Indian epics in their curriculum. It's a big message of co-existence.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia to teach Indian epics in schools

Saudi Arabia and Iran have never declared war on each other. But their proxy warfare has torn West Asia apart. The Saudi Iranian rivalry is a fight over influence and the whole region is their battlefield. So, when reports of a secret Saudi-Iran meeting emerged, the world was taken aback. On the West Asia Post this week, Ghadi Francis tells you what this thawing Cold War means for West Asia.

The West Asia Post: Episode 30- Is West Asia's cold war thawing?

Iran's Fireign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarid will visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday, his ministry announced on Saturday. This development came amid reports of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia being brokered by Iraq. The talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in Iraqi capital earlier this month were aimed at restoring relations between the two countries that were severed five years ago.

The talks were at the level of officials and not ministers.

Tehran has neither confirmed nor denied the reports saying only that it has "always welcomed" dialogue with Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has flatly denied them.

Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said Zarif's visits to Qatar and Iraq are "in the framework of developing bilateral ties (and) regional and trans-regional talks."

The Baghdad talks, brokered by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported last weekend that a first meeting had been held on April 9, with another planned for shortly after.

An Iraqi government official confirmed the meeting to AFP, while a Western diplomat said he was "briefed in advance that talks would happen" with the "purpose to help broker a better relationship between Iran and Saudi and decrease tensions".

The meetings came amid talks in Vienna between Iran and major powers on the mechanics of a US return to a landmark 2015 nuclear deal abandoned by president Donald Trump.

The talks must also address Iran's own return to full compliance with the deal, after it suspended its implementation of several key provisions in protest at Trump's reimposition of sweeping economic sanctions. 
Tehran has rejected calls by Riyadh to be involved in the nuclear negotiations, but has repeatedly stated its readiness to conduct a regional dialogue.

Tehran and Riyadh are on opposing sides in conflicts from Syria to Yemen and have had strained relations since the kingdom cut diplomatic ties in 2016.

Some Gulf states have followed Saudi Arabia in taking a tough line on Iran.

But Qatar has maintained warm relations despite the appeals of Saudi Arabia and its allies, which cited it as one of the reasons for imposing a blockade on the gas-rich emirate in 2017.

That rift now appears to have healed after Qatar was invited to a meeting in Saudi Arabia in January at which it was brought back into the regional fold. 
&nbsp;

Iran's Fireign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarid will visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday, his ministry announced on Saturday. This development came amid reports of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia being brokered by Iraq.

Iran's Fireign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarid will visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday, his ministry announced on Saturday. This development came amid reports of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia being brokered by Iraq. The talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in Iraqi capital earlier this month were aimed at restoring relations between the two countries that were severed five years ago. The talks were at the level of officials and not ministers. Tehran has neither confirmed nor denied the reports saying only that it has "always welcomed" dialogue with Saudi Arabia. Riyadh has flatly denied them. Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said Zarif's visits to Qatar and Iraq are "in the framework of developing bilateral ties (and) regional and trans-regional talks." The Baghdad talks, brokered by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi, remained secret until the Financial Times reported last weekend that a first meeting had been held on April 9, with another planned for shortly after. An Iraqi government official confirmed the meeting to AFP, while a Western diplomat said he was "briefed in advance that talks would happen" with the "purpose to help broker a better relationship between Iran and Saudi and decrease tensions". The meetings came amid talks in Vienna between Iran and major powers on the mechanics of a US return to a landmark 2015 nuclear deal abandoned by president Donald Trump. The talks must also address Iran's own return to full compliance with the deal, after it suspended its implementation of several key provisions in protest at Trump's reimposition of sweeping economic sanctions. Tehran has rejected calls by Riyadh to be involved in the nuclear negotiations, but has repeatedly stated its readiness to conduct a regional dialogue. Tehran and Riyadh are on opposing sides in conflicts from Syria to Yemen and have had strained relations since the kingdom cut diplomatic ties in 2016. Some Gulf states have followed Saudi Arabia in taking a tough line on Iran. But Qatar has maintained warm relations despite the appeals of Saudi Arabia and its allies, which cited it as one of the reasons for imposing a blockade on the gas-rich emirate in 2017. That rift now appears to have healed after Qatar was invited to a meeting in Saudi Arabia in January at which it was brought back into the regional fold.

Zarif to visit Iraq and Qatar on Sunday

In a series of reforms undertaken by Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Saudi Arabia, education has taken one of the top spots.&nbsp;Now a tweet about Prince Salman’s “Vision 2030” for the country has gone viral on social media.&nbsp;

Turns out, the country will inculcate information about Hinduism and Buddhism. This will include teaching students about Ramayana and Mahabharata.

A user on Twitter shared images of the test question for their son’s social studies exam, which included questions about the Hindu epics.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/saudi-arabia-to-allow-only-immunised-pilgrims-to-mecca-375572" hreflang="en">Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca</a>

“Saudi Arabia’s new #vision2030 &amp; curriculum will help to create a coexistent, moderate &amp; tolerant generation. Screenshots of my son's school exam today in Social Studies included concepts &amp; history of Hinduism, Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study,” the tweet read.&nbsp;

Check out the images below

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Saudi Arabia’s new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vision2030?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vision2030</a> &amp; curriculum will help to create coexistent,moderate &amp; tolerant generation. Screenshots of my sons school exam today in Social Studies included concepts &amp; history of Hinduism,Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata &amp;Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study <a href="https://t.co/w9c8WYstt9">pic.twitter.com/w9c8WYstt9</a>
— Nouf Almarwaai نوف المروعي 🇸🇦 (@NoufMarwaai) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoufMarwaai/status/1382694702852538379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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That’s not it! To realise Vision 2030 for the country, Prince Salman is attempting to mainstream yoga and Ayurveda, which find their roots in India. Besides including Mahabharata and Ramayana in the school curriculum, English language has also been made mandatory as part of the reforms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/saudi-arabia-announces-13-trillion-investment-for-economic-diversification-374563" hreflang="en">Saudi Arabia announces $1.3 trillion investment for economic diversification</a>

The image was tweeted by Nouf Almarwaai, who received the Padma Shri award for being the first certified yoga instructor in Saudi Arabia. The tweet was posted on April 15 and has gone viral since then.

In a series of reforms undertaken by Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Saudi Arabia, education has taken one of the top spots. Now a tweet about Prince Salman’s “Vision 2030” for the country has gone viral on social media.

In a series of reforms undertaken by Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Saudi Arabia, education has taken one of the top spots. Now a tweet about Prince Salman’s “Vision 2030” for the country has gone viral on social media. Turns out, the country will inculcate information about Hinduism and Buddhism. This will include teaching students about Ramayana and Mahabharata. A user on Twitter shared images of the test question for their son’s social studies exam, which included questions about the Hindu epics. Also read: Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca “Saudi Arabia’s new #vision2030 & curriculum will help to create a coexistent, moderate & tolerant generation. Screenshots of my son's school exam today in Social Studies included concepts & history of Hinduism, Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study,” the tweet read. Check out the images below Saudi Arabia’s new #vision2030 & curriculum will help to create coexistent,moderate & tolerant generation. Screenshots of my sons school exam today in Social Studies included concepts & history of Hinduism,Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata &Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study pic.twitter.com/w9c8WYstt9 — Nouf Almarwaai نوف المروعي 🇸🇦 (@NoufMarwaai) April 15, 2021 × That’s not it! To realise Vision 2030 for the country, Prince Salman is attempting to mainstream yoga and Ayurveda, which find their roots in India. Besides including Mahabharata and Ramayana in the school curriculum, English language has also been made mandatory as part of the reforms. Also read: Saudi Arabia announces $1.3 trillion investment for economic diversification The image was tweeted by Nouf Almarwaai, who received the Padma Shri award for being the first certified yoga instructor in Saudi Arabia. The tweet was posted on April 15 and has gone viral since then.

Ramayana, Mahabharata to become part of Saudi Arabia's school curriculum

Iran and Saudi Arabia denied reports of a rare meeting between their officials in Baghdad. But multiple unnamed sources continued to stand by their reports of a secret meeting on the civil war in Yemen. Is the Iran-Saudi rivalry thawing? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Rare Iran-Saudi talks in Baghdad

According to sources: The meeting was focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015

Saudi Arabia and Iran held talks aimed at easing tensions

Saudi and Iranian officials held direct talks this month to ease tensions between the two rivals. A senior Iranian official and two regional sources said Washington worked to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran and end the Yemen war.

Your Story: Saudi-Iran talks arranged by Iraq's PM focus on Yemen

Even as negotiations among world powers over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Reuters quoted sources and a senior Iranian official to say that Saudi Arabian and Iranian officials held direct talks to ease tension between the two countries. Iran and Saudi Arabia are bitter rivals and are actively trying to reduce each other's influence through diplomatic efforts and also through proxy military conflicts.

The regional source told Reuters that the meeting focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015.

The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials took place on April 9 in Iraq. It was first reported by Financial Times.

The second regional source said the talks also touched on Lebanon, which is facing a political vacuum amid a dire financial crisis. Gulf Arab states are alarmed by the expanding role of Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.

Iraq's prime minister held talks with Saudi Arabia's crown prince earlier this month and also visited the United Arab Emirates.

The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials did not lead to any breakthrough.

Saudi authorities did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The FT report said that a senior Saudi official denied there had been any talks with Iran.

A Western diplomat in the region said the United States and Britain were informed in advance of the Saudi-Iran talks but had "not seen the outcome".

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as negotiations among world powers over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Reuters quoted sources and a senior Iranian official to say that Saudi Arabian and Iranian officials held direct talks to ease tension between the two countries.

Even as negotiations among world powers over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal, Reuters quoted sources and a senior Iranian official to say that Saudi Arabian and Iranian officials held direct talks to ease tension between the two countries. Iran and Saudi Arabia are bitter rivals and are actively trying to reduce each other's influence through diplomatic efforts and also through proxy military conflicts. The regional source told Reuters that the meeting focused on Yemen, where a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia has been battling the Iran-aligned Houthi group since March 2015. The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials took place on April 9 in Iraq. It was first reported by Financial Times. The second regional source said the talks also touched on Lebanon, which is facing a political vacuum amid a dire financial crisis. Gulf Arab states are alarmed by the expanding role of Lebanon's Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. Iraq's prime minister held talks with Saudi Arabia's crown prince earlier this month and also visited the United Arab Emirates. The meeting between Saudi and Iranian officials did not lead to any breakthrough. Saudi authorities did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The FT report said that a senior Saudi official denied there had been any talks with Iran. A Western diplomat in the region said the United States and Britain were informed in advance of the Saudi-Iran talks but had "not seen the outcome". (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia and Iran held talks to ease tension, say sources

A glance at 'City of Roses' in the desert Kingdom

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said.

Saudi air defence intercepted five ballistic missiles and four drones deployed by Yemeni rebels on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, according to the coalition.&nbsp;

The missiles were fired and drones sent from Yemen's Sa'ada province, a rebel stronghold in the north of the country, toward the Saudi city of Jizan, said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki.

"Debris fell on the campus of Jizan University, causing a small fire which was brought under control and there were no casualties," the spokesman said, according to the official Saudi news agency SPA.&nbsp;

Maliki condemned the escalating Huthi air campaign against "civilian targets", warning that these "hostile acts constitute war crimes".&nbsp;

A Houthi spokesman in the northern capital of Sanaa said that 11 missiles and drones had targeted facilities belonging to the Saudi oil giant Aramco.

Patriot anti-missile batteries and other "sensitive facilities" were also targeted by the Huthis in Jizan, a rebel military spokesman said according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television.

On Monday, the Huthis claimed to have carried out other attacks against Saudi Arabia, saying they had launched 17 drones and missiles at various targets including Aramco facilities.&nbsp;

Saudi authorities did not confirm any attacks on oil facilities at the time. However, the coalition indicated that six drones launched from Yemen had been intercepted, without mentioning any casualties.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition that intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015, to support the the internationally recognised government.

It has reported numerous attacks by the rebels on Aramco facilities, airports and other civilian targets in recent months.&nbsp;

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said.

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said. Saudi air defence intercepted five ballistic missiles and four drones deployed by Yemeni rebels on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, according to the coalition. The missiles were fired and drones sent from Yemen's Sa'ada province, a rebel stronghold in the north of the country, toward the Saudi city of Jizan, said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki. "Debris fell on the campus of Jizan University, causing a small fire which was brought under control and there were no casualties," the spokesman said, according to the official Saudi news agency SPA. Maliki condemned the escalating Huthi air campaign against "civilian targets", warning that these "hostile acts constitute war crimes". A Houthi spokesman in the northern capital of Sanaa said that 11 missiles and drones had targeted facilities belonging to the Saudi oil giant Aramco. Patriot anti-missile batteries and other "sensitive facilities" were also targeted by the Huthis in Jizan, a rebel military spokesman said according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television. On Monday, the Huthis claimed to have carried out other attacks against Saudi Arabia, saying they had launched 17 drones and missiles at various targets including Aramco facilities. Saudi authorities did not confirm any attacks on oil facilities at the time. However, the coalition indicated that six drones launched from Yemen had been intercepted, without mentioning any casualties. Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition that intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015, to support the the internationally recognised government. It has reported numerous attacks by the rebels on Aramco facilities, airports and other civilian targets in recent months.

Houthi missile debris sparks fire at Saudi university

They bounce up and down with their knees pressed close together, as they wave the gun and finally reach for the sky and fire at the ground, resulting in a blast of sparks and smoke under their feet.

Saudis keep traditional 'Taasheer' war dance alive

Fighting for the key region of Marib in Yemen has intensified and as per loyalist military officials who were quoted by news agencies, 53 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters were killed in the past 24 hours. Marib is the last significant pocket of territory under the Yemeni government's control in north Yemen. The Houthi rebels have been trying to seize the oil-rich region since February.

"The rebels have managed to seize a bit of territory" in the latest fighting northwest of the city, a pro-government military source said, assessing the city of Marib itself was not under threat.

AFP quoted the same source to say that 22 government soldiers including five officers had been killed, along with 31 rebels. Houthis rarely announced casualties on their own side.&nbsp;

If Marib falls to Houthi rebels, it will be a huge blow to the Yemeni government. The government is&nbsp;currently based in the southern city of Aden.

The rebels have stepped up missile and drone strikes against neighbouring Saudi Arabia in recent months, demanding the opening of Yemen's airspace and ports.

They have rejected a Saudi proposal for a ceasefire.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels overran Yemen's capital Sanaa in 2014. This prompted Saudi Arabia-led coalition to intervene in March 2015 in support of the Yemeni government.

(With AFP inputs)

Fighting for the key region of Marib in Yemen has intensified and as per loyalist military officials who were quoted by news agencies, 53 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters were killed in the past 24 hours.

Fighting for the key region of Marib in Yemen has intensified and as per loyalist military officials who were quoted by news agencies, 53 pro-government and Houthi rebel fighters were killed in the past 24 hours. Marib is the last significant pocket of territory under the Yemeni government's control in north Yemen. The Houthi rebels have been trying to seize the oil-rich region since February. "The rebels have managed to seize a bit of territory" in the latest fighting northwest of the city, a pro-government military source said, assessing the city of Marib itself was not under threat. AFP quoted the same source to say that 22 government soldiers including five officers had been killed, along with 31 rebels. Houthis rarely announced casualties on their own side. If Marib falls to Houthi rebels, it will be a huge blow to the Yemeni government. The government is currently based in the southern city of Aden. The rebels have stepped up missile and drone strikes against neighbouring Saudi Arabia in recent months, demanding the opening of Yemen's airspace and ports. They have rejected a Saudi proposal for a ceasefire. Iran-backed Houthi rebels overran Yemen's capital Sanaa in 2014. This prompted Saudi Arabia-led coalition to intervene in March 2015 in support of the Yemeni government. (With AFP inputs)

Yemen: Battle for Marib heats up

Starting Ramadan, Saudi Arabia will only allow 'immunised' pilgrims to enter the Grand Mosque of Mecca. Will the rule also apply to the annual Hajj Pilgrimage? Will countries now push for vaccine passports?

Gravitas | Mecca: Only vaccine pilgrims allowed

COVID-19 has also impacted the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The government has made COVID-19 vaccine jab mandatory for the pilgrims visiting Hajj.

'Only vaccinated pilgrims allowed in Mecca': Saudi Arabia

Saudi authorities said Monday only people immunised against Covid-19 will be allowed to perform the year-round umrah pilgrimage from the start of Ramadan, the holy fasting month for Muslims.

The hajj and umrah ministry said in a statement that three categories of people would be considered "immunised" -- those who have received two doses of the vaccine, those administered a single dose at least 14 days prior, and people who have recovered from the infection.

Only those people will be eligible for permits to perform umrah, as well as to attend prayers in the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca.

It added that the condition also applies for entry into the Prophet's Mosque in the holy city of Medina.

The ministry said the policy starts with Ramadan, which is due to begin later this month, but it was unclear how long it would last.

It was also not clear whether the policy, which comes amid an uptick in coronavirus infections in the kingdom, would be extended to the annual hajj pilgrimage later this year.

Saudi Arabia has reported more than 393,000 coronavirus infections and 6,700 deaths from COVID-19.

The kingdom's health ministry said it has administered more than five million coronavirus vaccines, in a country with a population of over 34 million.

Last month, King Salman replaced the hajj minister, months after the kingdom hosted the smallest hajj in modern history due to the pandemic.

Mohammad Benten was relieved from his post and replaced by Essam bin Saeed, according to a royal decree published by official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The kingdom hosted the hajj in late July last year.

Only 10,000 Muslim residents of Saudi Arabia itself were allowed to take part, a far cry from the 2.5 million Muslims from around the world who participated in 2019.

It is unclear how many pilgrims will be allowed for hajj this year.

According to the pro-government Okaz newspaper, only vaccinated pilgrims will likely be permitted this year.

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 umrah pilgrimage.

The umrah usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe each year.

Authorities said the umrah will be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated. 
&nbsp;

Saudi authorities said Monday only people immunised against Covid-19 will be allowed to perform the year-round umrah pilgrimage from the start of Ramadan, the holy fasting month for Muslims.

Saudi authorities said Monday only people immunised against Covid-19 will be allowed to perform the year-round umrah pilgrimage from the start of Ramadan, the holy fasting month for Muslims. The hajj and umrah ministry said in a statement that three categories of people would be considered "immunised" -- those who have received two doses of the vaccine, those administered a single dose at least 14 days prior, and people who have recovered from the infection. Only those people will be eligible for permits to perform umrah, as well as to attend prayers in the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca. It added that the condition also applies for entry into the Prophet's Mosque in the holy city of Medina. The ministry said the policy starts with Ramadan, which is due to begin later this month, but it was unclear how long it would last. It was also not clear whether the policy, which comes amid an uptick in coronavirus infections in the kingdom, would be extended to the annual hajj pilgrimage later this year. Saudi Arabia has reported more than 393,000 coronavirus infections and 6,700 deaths from COVID-19. The kingdom's health ministry said it has administered more than five million coronavirus vaccines, in a country with a population of over 34 million. Last month, King Salman replaced the hajj minister, months after the kingdom hosted the smallest hajj in modern history due to the pandemic. Mohammad Benten was relieved from his post and replaced by Essam bin Saeed, according to a royal decree published by official Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The kingdom hosted the hajj in late July last year. Only 10,000 Muslim residents of Saudi Arabia itself were allowed to take part, a far cry from the 2.5 million Muslims from around the world who participated in 2019. It is unclear how many pilgrims will be allowed for hajj this year. According to the pro-government Okaz newspaper, only vaccinated pilgrims will likely be permitted this year. 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 umrah pilgrimage. The umrah usually attracts millions of Muslims from across the globe each year. Authorities said the umrah will be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated.

Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca

Saudi Arabia is planning a major economic diversification push. It plans to invest $3.2 trillion by 2030 to jumpstart its economy after the pandemic. WION's Palki tells you why the Saudi economy needs this booster shot.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia's $3.2 trillion bet

Iraq and Saudi Arabia signed five agreements during a visit by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi to Riyadh and discovered the financial, commercial, economic culture and media fields.

Saudi Arabia and Iraq sign  agreements during Kadhimi's visit to Riyadh

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia announced Tuesday&nbsp;investments worth&nbsp;oil firm&nbsp;Aramco&nbsp;and petrochemical firm SABIC would lead investments of 5 trillion riyals ($1.3 trillion) by the local private sector by 2030 under a programme announced on Tuesday for economic diversification.

The announcement by de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscores an effort to jumpstart the domestic economy as the top crude exporter battles high youth unemployment and a coronavirus-triggered downturn.

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"The total investment injected... into the national economy is expected to reach 12 trillion riyals ($3.2 trillion) by 2030," Prince Mohammed said in a speech carried by state television.

The move aims to mobilise the Gulf Arab state's private sector to help wean the economy off its reliance on oil exports, which still account for more than half the state's income, and develop new sectors to help create jobs for millions of&nbsp;Saudis.

The total amount would rise to 27 trillion riyals with government spending and domestic consumption.

"The new Shareek (Partner) programme will help the private sector create hundreds of thousands of new jobs and will boost the contribution of the private sector to GDP by up to 65 per cent&nbsp;by the end of the decade," the prince said.

He later told journalists in a virtual briefing that&nbsp;Aramco&nbsp;and&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Basic Industries Corp (SABIC) would represent 60 per cent&nbsp;of the 5 trillion riyal investment.

Prince Mohammed said the government has asked the biggest participating firms to lower their dividends in order to raise capital spending.

"That will lead to growth of the company so stakeholders will own more money. In exchange the&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;government will help them with regulations, more subsidies and other incentives."

The prince said dividends for those owning shares in&nbsp;Aramco, which listed on the local bourse in 2019, would remain stable.

"We promised them that and we will keep that promise," he said. The&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;government still owns 98 per cent&nbsp;of the firm.

The programme is part of a mammoth 27 trillion-riyal ($7 trillion) investment plan over the next decade, which will include huge government spending to spur the domestic economy, the prince said.

It is designed to "promote the development and diversification of the national economy", the state-run SPA news agency said, adding that it will "strengthen cooperation between public and private sectors".

The crown prince said the government planned to offload its shares in companies in coming years and to IPO projects it is launching.

"We will recycle the money. We shouldn't keep our shares forever. Whatever mature investment we have we have to IPO. So for example if you own 70 per cent&nbsp;of a company, PIF should maintain majority at 30 per cent&nbsp;and sell 40 per cent," he told journalists.

The prince has said that&nbsp;Aramco&nbsp;would sell more shares as part of plans to bolster sovereign wealth fund PIF, the main vehicle for boosting&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;investments at home and abroad.

The prince said on Tuesday that PIF is working with other sovereign wealth funds in the region on a fund called "Invest In&nbsp;Saudi" that would be sized at 500 billion riyals to 1 trillion riyals.

PIF is backing domestic mega-projects such as the flagship tourism project at the Red Sea, planned $500 billion Neom economic zone and the entertainment hub at Qiddya.

Saudi Arabia announced Tuesday investments worth oil firm Aramco and petrochemical firm SABIC would lead investments of 5 trillion riyals ($1.3 trillion) by the local private sector by 2030 under a programme announced on Tuesday for economic diversification.

Saudi Arabia announced Tuesday investments worth oil firm Aramco and petrochemical firm SABIC would lead investments of 5 trillion riyals ($1.3 trillion) by the local private sector by 2030 under a programme announced on Tuesday for economic diversification. The announcement by de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscores an effort to jumpstart the domestic economy as the top crude exporter battles high youth unemployment and a coronavirus-triggered downturn. "The total investment injected... into the national economy is expected to reach 12 trillion riyals ($3.2 trillion) by 2030," Prince Mohammed said in a speech carried by state television. The move aims to mobilise the Gulf Arab state's private sector to help wean the economy off its reliance on oil exports, which still account for more than half the state's income, and develop new sectors to help create jobs for millions of Saudis. The total amount would rise to 27 trillion riyals with government spending and domestic consumption. "The new Shareek (Partner) programme will help the private sector create hundreds of thousands of new jobs and will boost the contribution of the private sector to GDP by up to 65 per cent by the end of the decade," the prince said. He later told journalists in a virtual briefing that Aramco and Saudi Basic Industries Corp (SABIC) would represent 60 per cent of the 5 trillion riyal investment. Prince Mohammed said the government has asked the biggest participating firms to lower their dividends in order to raise capital spending. "That will lead to growth of the company so stakeholders will own more money. In exchange the Saudi government will help them with regulations, more subsidies and other incentives." The prince said dividends for those owning shares in Aramco, which listed on the local bourse in 2019, would remain stable. "We promised them that and we will keep that promise," he said. The Saudi government still owns 98 per cent of the firm. The programme is part of a mammoth 27 trillion-riyal ($7 trillion) investment plan over the next decade, which will include huge government spending to spur the domestic economy, the prince said. It is designed to "promote the development and diversification of the national economy", the state-run SPA news agency said, adding that it will "strengthen cooperation between public and private sectors". The crown prince said the government planned to offload its shares in companies in coming years and to IPO projects it is launching. "We will recycle the money. We shouldn't keep our shares forever. Whatever mature investment we have we have to IPO. So for example if you own 70 per cent of a company, PIF should maintain majority at 30 per cent and sell 40 per cent," he told journalists. The prince has said that Aramco would sell more shares as part of plans to bolster sovereign wealth fund PIF, the main vehicle for boosting Saudi investments at home and abroad. The prince said on Tuesday that PIF is working with other sovereign wealth funds in the region on a fund called "Invest In Saudi" that would be sized at 500 billion riyals to 1 trillion riyals. PIF is backing domestic mega-projects such as the flagship tourism project at the Red Sea, planned $500 billion Neom economic zone and the entertainment hub at Qiddya.

Saudi Arabia announces $1.3 trillion investment for economic diversification

Saudi Prince Mohammad Bin Salman has announced radical investment to pump up the nation's economy. In a major push, Prince Salman has announced $1.3 trillion investment that would diversify economy. The investment drive will be led by Oil-producing giant Aramco and chemical manufacturing firm SABIC.

Saudi Arabia announces $1.3 trillion private sector investment

Houthi rebels have launched attacks on Saudi Arabia, aiming at oil facilities owned by state-run Saudi Aramco company and a few military sites.

The group launched attacks against King Abdulaziz military base in Dammam and military sites in Najran and Asir on Thursday. They have also targeted Aramco facilities in Ras Tanura, Rabigh, Yanbu and Jizan, the group said.

Jizan's attack on the Red Sea struck a distribution facility around 9 pm.

"The attack resulted in a fire in one of the terminal’s tanks," a statement by the Saudi Energy Ministry read. No casualties have been reported yet from these attacks.

As per local reports, Saudi Arabia's air defence intercepted a ballistic missile over the province of Najran.

For now, a specific location has not been revealed about the attacks, but Jizan is home to a new refinery and port facilities for Aramco, an energy giant.

These assaults have seen an alarming increase in Saudi Arabia and an offer of&nbsp;ceasefire has also not offered any resolve.

Houthi rebels have launched attacks on Saudi Arabia, aiming at oil facilities owned by state-run Saudi Aramco company and a few military sites. The group launched attacks against King Abdulaziz military base in Dammam and military sites in Najran and Asir on Thursday.

Houthi rebels have launched attacks on Saudi Arabia, aiming at oil facilities owned by state-run Saudi Aramco company and a few military sites. The group launched attacks against King Abdulaziz military base in Dammam and military sites in Najran and Asir on Thursday. They have also targeted Aramco facilities in Ras Tanura, Rabigh, Yanbu and Jizan, the group said. Jizan's attack on the Red Sea struck a distribution facility around 9 pm. "The attack resulted in a fire in one of the terminal’s tanks," a statement by the Saudi Energy Ministry read. No casualties have been reported yet from these attacks. As per local reports, Saudi Arabia's air defence intercepted a ballistic missile over the province of Najran. For now, a specific location has not been revealed about the attacks, but Jizan is home to a new refinery and port facilities for Aramco, an energy giant. These assaults have seen an alarming increase in Saudi Arabia and an offer of ceasefire has also not offered any resolve.

Houthi rebels attack Saudi oil facilities, military sites

Saudi Arabian energy ministry on Friday said that a drone attack in capital Riyadh sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The attack has been claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels.

"The Riyadh oil refinery was attacked by drones, resulting in a fire that has been brought under control," the ministry said in a statement.

It added that no casualties were reported and oil supplies were not disrupted..

Houthi rebels on Friday claimed that they targetted energy giant Aramco with six drones.

Houthi rebels are fighting Saudi Arabian-led military coalition in Yemen. The Houthis are backed by Iran.

Saudi Arabian energy ministry on Friday said that a drone attack in capital Riyadh sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The attack has been claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels.

Saudi Arabian energy ministry on Friday said that a drone attack in capital Riyadh sparked a fire at an oil refinery. The attack has been claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels. "The Riyadh oil refinery was attacked by drones, resulting in a fire that has been brought under control," the ministry said in a statement. It added that no casualties were reported and oil supplies were not disrupted.. Houthi rebels on Friday claimed that they targetted energy giant Aramco with six drones. Houthi rebels are fighting Saudi Arabian-led military coalition in Yemen. The Houthis are backed by Iran.

Saudi Arabian oil refinery on fire due to drone attack, says ministry

Oil prices settled lower, retreating from a session peak above $70 a barrel after attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia lifted prices that high for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

World Business Watch: Oil settles lower after attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia

Yemen's internationally recognised government said on Sunday it had restored diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;after four years of boycott led by Saudi Arabia and joined by other Arab countries.

Saudi Arabia and its allies had agreed at a summit in January to end the political row which led to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cutting trade, travel and diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;in mid-2017. Yemen's Saudi-backed government had followed suit.

Qatar&nbsp;denied their accusations that it supports terrorism.

The foreign minister had met his&nbsp;Qatari counterpart in Doha on Sunday, according to the Yemeni foreign ministry. An agreement was reached to restore ties, it said in a statement, and published an image of the Yemeni flag being raised at the embassy in Doha.

A statement by the&nbsp;Qatari foreign ministry said the two ministers reviewed bilateral relations but did not mention restoration of ties. The&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;government media office did not immediately respond to a Reuters' request for comment.

Qatar&nbsp;Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani during the meeting underlined the need for a political solution to end the six-year war in Yemen, the statement said.

Qatar&nbsp;was initially part of a Saudi-led military alliance fighting in the war, but was kicked out in 2017 after the Arab boycott.

Since the January agreement, air and travel links have resumed between&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;and the four states. Cairo restored diplomatic relations that month and Riyadh said it would do so.

Fellow Gulf Arab state Kuwait last month hosted bilateral talks with&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;and Egypt, and with&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;and the UAE, aimed at resolving individual differences.

Yemen's internationally recognised government said on Sunday it had restored diplomatic ties with Qatar after four years of boycott led by Saudi Arabia and joined by other Arab countries.

Yemen's internationally recognised government said on Sunday it had restored diplomatic ties with Qatar after four years of boycott led by Saudi Arabia and joined by other Arab countries. Saudi Arabia and its allies had agreed at a summit in January to end the political row which led to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt cutting trade, travel and diplomatic ties with Qatar in mid-2017. Yemen's Saudi-backed government had followed suit. Qatar denied their accusations that it supports terrorism. The foreign minister had met his Qatari counterpart in Doha on Sunday, according to the Yemeni foreign ministry. An agreement was reached to restore ties, it said in a statement, and published an image of the Yemeni flag being raised at the embassy in Doha. A statement by the Qatari foreign ministry said the two ministers reviewed bilateral relations but did not mention restoration of ties. The Qatar government media office did not immediately respond to a Reuters' request for comment. Qatar Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani during the meeting underlined the need for a political solution to end the six-year war in Yemen, the statement said. Qatar was initially part of a Saudi-led military alliance fighting in the war, but was kicked out in 2017 after the Arab boycott. Since the January agreement, air and travel links have resumed between Qatar and the four states. Cairo restored diplomatic relations that month and Riyadh said it would do so. Fellow Gulf Arab state Kuwait last month hosted bilateral talks with Qatar and Egypt, and with Qatar and the UAE, aimed at resolving individual differences.

Saudi-backed Yemeni government restores ties with Qatar

The attack comes after the Saudi led-coalition fighting the Houthis intercepted ten drones launched by the Iran-backed rebels on Sunday.

Yemen's Houthi rebels target Saudi Arabia's Aramco oil facilities

A Saudi-led military coalition intercepted 10 drones launched by Yemen's Huthi rebels on Sunday, state media reported, in a sharp escalation in cross-border attacks on the kingdom.

The coalition -- fighting in Yemen alongside an internationally recognised government against the insurgents -- said the drones were aimed at "civilian" targets in Saudi Arabia, the official Saudi Press Agency reported, without specifying the locations.

The Iran-backed rebels have stepped up attacks on Saudi Arabia in recent weeks, while they escalate an offensive in Yemen to seize the government's last northern stronghold of Marib.

The escalation comes even after the United States last month delisted the Huthis as terrorists and stepped up efforts to de-escalate the six-year conflict.

The terror designation, imposed late in the administration of former US president Donald Trump, had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate a humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

"The removal of the Huthis from the list of terrorist groups has been interpreted in a hostile way by the militia," SPA cited the coalition as saying.

The coalition added that their "victories" in Marib had prompted the rebels to step up attacks on the kingdom.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Yemeni government sources said fierce fighting between pro-government Yemeni forces and the rebels in oil-rich Marib had left at least 90 combatants on the two sides dead over the span of 24 hours.

Years of bombing have failed to shake the rebels' hold on Yemen's capital Sanaa, and they have steadily expanded their reach in the country's north.

US President Joe Biden halted support to Saudi offensive operations in Yemen's war, which he called a "catastrophe" that "has to end".&nbsp;

But he also reiterated US support for Saudi Arabia in defending its territory.&nbsp;

The grinding conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, according to international organisations, sparking what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

A Saudi-led military coalition intercepted 10 drones launched by Yemen's Huthi rebels on Sunday, state media reported, in a sharp escalation in cross-border attacks on the kingdom.

A Saudi-led military coalition intercepted 10 drones launched by Yemen's Huthi rebels on Sunday, state media reported, in a sharp escalation in cross-border attacks on the kingdom. The coalition -- fighting in Yemen alongside an internationally recognised government against the insurgents -- said the drones were aimed at "civilian" targets in Saudi Arabia, the official Saudi Press Agency reported, without specifying the locations. The Iran-backed rebels have stepped up attacks on Saudi Arabia in recent weeks, while they escalate an offensive in Yemen to seize the government's last northern stronghold of Marib. The escalation comes even after the United States last month delisted the Huthis as terrorists and stepped up efforts to de-escalate the six-year conflict. The terror designation, imposed late in the administration of former US president Donald Trump, had been widely criticised by aid organisations, who warned it would hamper their efforts to alleviate a humanitarian crisis in Yemen. "The removal of the Huthis from the list of terrorist groups has been interpreted in a hostile way by the militia," SPA cited the coalition as saying. The coalition added that their "victories" in Marib had prompted the rebels to step up attacks on the kingdom. On Saturday, Yemeni government sources said fierce fighting between pro-government Yemeni forces and the rebels in oil-rich Marib had left at least 90 combatants on the two sides dead over the span of 24 hours. Years of bombing have failed to shake the rebels' hold on Yemen's capital Sanaa, and they have steadily expanded their reach in the country's north. US President Joe Biden halted support to Saudi offensive operations in Yemen's war, which he called a "catastrophe" that "has to end". But he also reiterated US support for Saudi Arabia in defending its territory. The grinding conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, according to international organisations, sparking what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

Saudi-led coalition intercepts ten Huthi drones

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition.&nbsp;

The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said.&nbsp;

They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city.&nbsp;

The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added.&nbsp;

The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert.&nbsp;

It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference.&nbsp;

"Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said.&nbsp;

The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday. The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition. The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said. They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city. The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added. The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert. It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks. Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference. "Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said. The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered. (With inputs from agencies)

Fighting in Yemen's Marib kills 90 in 24 hours: Sources 

After Impacting other sectors, now COVID-19 has also impacted the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The government has made COVID-19 shot mandatory for the pilgrims visiting Hajj.

Saudi Arabia: No COVID-19 vaccine, no Mecca tells government

Saudi Arabia is considering extending its voluntary oil production cuts by one month into April, an OPEC+ source said on Thursday as the kingdom and Russia said oil markets recovery was still fragile.

Oil prices surged back towards their highest levels in more than a year with Brent trading up 5 % above $67 per barrel.

With oil above $60 a barrel, some analysts have predicted the OPEC+ group of producers will increase production by about 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) while Saudi Arabia will partially or fully end its voluntary cuts of 1 million bpd.

But both Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, lynchpins in the OPEC+ group, called for caution on Thursday.

"The uncertainty surrounding the pace of recovery has not receded," the Saudi minister said. "At the risk of sounding like a stuck record, I would once again urge caution and vigilance."

Russia`s Novak echoed those comments saying the oil market had not fully recovery and new coronavirus infections were still creating uncertainty.

Russia has been insisting on raising output to avoid prices spiking any further and lending support to shale oil output from the United States, which is not part of OPEC+.

But in February Moscow failed to raise output, despite being allowed to do so by OPEC+, because harsh winter weather hit its production at mature fields.

A source familiar with Russian thinking said Moscow wanted to raise its output by 0.125 million bpd from April.

OPEC+ cut output by a record 9.7 million bpd last year as demand collapsed due to the pandemic. As of March, it is still withholding around 7 million bpd, about 7% of world demand. The voluntary Saudi cut brings the total withheld to around 8 million bpd.

Saudi Arabia is considering extending its voluntary oil production cuts by one month into April, an OPEC+ source said on Thursday as the kingdom and Russia said oil markets recovery was still fragile.

Saudi Arabia is considering extending its voluntary oil production cuts by one month into April, an OPEC+ source said on Thursday as the kingdom and Russia said oil markets recovery was still fragile. Oil prices surged back towards their highest levels in more than a year with Brent trading up 5 % above $67 per barrel. With oil above $60 a barrel, some analysts have predicted the OPEC+ group of producers will increase production by about 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) while Saudi Arabia will partially or fully end its voluntary cuts of 1 million bpd. But both Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, lynchpins in the OPEC+ group, called for caution on Thursday. "The uncertainty surrounding the pace of recovery has not receded," the Saudi minister said. "At the risk of sounding like a stuck record, I would once again urge caution and vigilance." Russia`s Novak echoed those comments saying the oil market had not fully recovery and new coronavirus infections were still creating uncertainty. Russia has been insisting on raising output to avoid prices spiking any further and lending support to shale oil output from the United States, which is not part of OPEC+. But in February Moscow failed to raise output, despite being allowed to do so by OPEC+, because harsh winter weather hit its production at mature fields. A source familiar with Russian thinking said Moscow wanted to raise its output by 0.125 million bpd from April. OPEC+ cut output by a record 9.7 million bpd last year as demand collapsed due to the pandemic. As of March, it is still withholding around 7 million bpd, about 7% of world demand. The voluntary Saudi cut brings the total withheld to around 8 million bpd.

Saudi Arabia offers to extend oil cuts as OPEC+ weighs rollover

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