Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest oil exporter is looking at investing $100 billion in India in petrochemicals, infrastructure and mining among many other sectors.

At a time when India is facing an economic slowdown, Saudi Arabia is likely to invest $ 100 billion in different areas, considering the country’s growth potential.

In an interview to a leading Indian news agency, Saudi Ambassador Dr Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati said that the Arab nation is eyeing on having a long term partnership with India in various sectors including oil, gas, agriculture and mining.

This announcement comes days after oil giant Aramco and reliance industries announced a strategic tie-up with Saudi Aramco proposing to invest $44 billion in the west coast refinery and a petrochemical project in Maharashtra.

Saudi Arabia is a key pillar of India's energy security, being a source of 17% crude oil and 32% LPG requirements in India with the current bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia at $34 billion.

Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest oil exporter is looking at investing $100 billion in India in petrochemicals, infrastructure and mining among many other sectors.

Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest oil exporter is looking at investing $100 billion in India in petrochemicals, infrastructure and mining among many other sectors. At a time when India is facing an economic slowdown, Saudi Arabia is likely to invest $ 100 billion in different areas, considering the country’s growth potential. In an interview to a leading Indian news agency, Saudi Ambassador Dr Saud bin Mohammed Al Sati said that the Arab nation is eyeing on having a long term partnership with India in various sectors including oil, gas, agriculture and mining. This announcement comes days after oil giant Aramco and reliance industries announced a strategic tie-up with Saudi Aramco proposing to invest $44 billion in the west coast refinery and a petrochemical project in Maharashtra. Saudi Arabia is a key pillar of India's energy security, being a source of 17% crude oil and 32% LPG requirements in India with the current bilateral trade between India and Saudi Arabia at $34 billion.

Saudi Arabia looking at $100-billion investment in Indian petrochemicals, infrastructure and mining

Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, denied in an interview broadcast on Sunday that he ordered the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - September 30th, 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-mercenaries-among-troops-captured-during-saudi-attack-yemens-houthi-rebels-252738">Yemen's Houthi rebels</a> have freed 290 prisoners, including dozens of survivors from a Saudi-led coalition strike on a detention centre earlier this month, the ICRC said Monday.

The International Committee of the Red Cross hailed the move as "a positive step that will hopefully revive the release, transfer and repatriation of conflict-related detainees" under a deal struck last year between the rebels and Yemen's government.

The Houthis recently announced the capture of hundreds of Yemeni loyalist forces in an August offensive near the Saudi border, but they were not among those freed on Monday.

The United Nations' special envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, welcomed the initiative to "unilaterally release detainees".

"I hope this step will lead to further initiatives that will facilitate the exchange of all the conflict-related detainees as per the Stockholm Agreement" Griffiths said, referring to the 2018 accord.

He called on all parties to work together to speed prisoner releases, saying they and their families had "endured profound pain and suffering."&nbsp;

In a statement, he urged the parties to meet at the "nearest opportunity" to resume the discussions on future exchanges.

The Houthi's own announcement on the prisoner release said there were 350 in the group, including three Saudis.

"We have presented to the United Nations a unilateral initiative to release 350 prisoners," Abdel Kader Mortaza, the Houthi official in charge of prisoner affairs, said at a press conference in Sanaa.

Years of conflict in Yemen have killed tens of thousands of people, mostly civilians.

Since the Saudi-led coalition intervened to back up the government in 2015, the fighting has plunged the country -- the poorest in the Arab world -- into what the UN calls the globe's worst humanitarian crisis.

In early September, a Saudi-led coalition backing the government struck a former college in the western city of Dhamar, used by the Houthis as a detention centre.

The Red Cross said over 100 people were killed.

 
&nbsp;

Yemen's Houthi rebels have freed 290 prisoners, including dozens of survivors from a Saudi-led coalition strike on a detention centre earlier this month, the ICRC said Monday.

Yemen's Houthi rebels have freed 290 prisoners, including dozens of survivors from a Saudi-led coalition strike on a detention centre earlier this month, the ICRC said Monday. The International Committee of the Red Cross hailed the move as "a positive step that will hopefully revive the release, transfer and repatriation of conflict-related detainees" under a deal struck last year between the rebels and Yemen's government. The Houthis recently announced the capture of hundreds of Yemeni loyalist forces in an August offensive near the Saudi border, but they were not among those freed on Monday. The United Nations' special envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, welcomed the initiative to "unilaterally release detainees". "I hope this step will lead to further initiatives that will facilitate the exchange of all the conflict-related detainees as per the Stockholm Agreement" Griffiths said, referring to the 2018 accord. He called on all parties to work together to speed prisoner releases, saying they and their families had "endured profound pain and suffering." In a statement, he urged the parties to meet at the "nearest opportunity" to resume the discussions on future exchanges. The Houthi's own announcement on the prisoner release said there were 350 in the group, including three Saudis. "We have presented to the United Nations a unilateral initiative to release 350 prisoners," Abdel Kader Mortaza, the Houthi official in charge of prisoner affairs, said at a press conference in Sanaa. Years of conflict in Yemen have killed tens of thousands of people, mostly civilians. Since the Saudi-led coalition intervened to back up the government in 2015, the fighting has plunged the country -- the poorest in the Arab world -- into what the UN calls the globe's worst humanitarian crisis. In early September, a Saudi-led coalition backing the government struck a former college in the western city of Dhamar, used by the Houthis as a detention centre. The Red Cross said over 100 people were killed.

Yemen Houthi rebels free 290 prisoners: ICRC

Houthi rebels in Yemen say they have killed 500 Saudi soldiers, captured a further 2,000 and seized a convoy of Saudi military vehicles.

Biggest attack on Saudi-led coalition?

Yemen's Houthi movement said on Saturday it had carried out a major attack near the border with the southern Saudi region of Najran and captured many troops and vehicles, but there was no immediate confirmation from Saudi Arabian authorities.

The Houthis' military spokesman said in a statement that three "enemy military brigades had fallen" in the attack, which he said was launched 72 hours ago and supported by the group's drone, missile and air defence units.

Houthi-run Al Masirah TV quoted the spokesman as saying the Iran-aligned movement had captured "thousands" of enemy troops, including many officers and soldiers of the Saudi army, as well as hundreds of armoured vehicles.

The spokesman for a Saudi-led military coalition that has been battling the Houthi group for over four years in Yemen did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Reuters could not independently verify the claim.

Yemeni government troops, supported by coalition air strikes, have in recent months been fighting Houthi forces in the Kataf region of the northern Saada province near the Saudi border. Local sources have said the Houthis had captured scores of Yemeni forces in the battles.

The violence could hamper United Nations' efforts to ease tensions and pave the way for talks to end the war that has killed tens of thousands and pushed millions to the brink of famine in the long-impoverished Arabian Peninsula nation.

The Sunni Muslim coalition, which receives arms and intelligence from Western countries, intervened in Yemen in March 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from power in the capital Sanaa in 2014.

A U.N.-brokered prisoner swap deal agreed between the Houthis and Yemen's Saudi-backed government last December involving some 7,000 detainees on each side has yet to happen.

"Operation 'Victory from God' is the largest military one since the brutal aggression began. The enemy suffered heavy losses ... and wide swathes of territory were liberated in only a few days," Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdul-Salam tweeted.

The Houthis, who had recently stepped up missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities, have claimed responsibility for the largest-ever attack on Saudi oil facilities on September 14.

Riyadh dismissed the claim, saying the assault did not come from Yemen and instead blamed its regional foe Shi'ite Muslim Iran. Tehran denies the charge.

The Houthis said on September 20 they would halt missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia if the alliance stopped its operations. The coalition has yet to respond to the proposal.

The conflict is widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The Houthis, who control Sanaa and most big urban centres, deny being puppets of Tehran and say they are fighting a corrupt system.

Yemen's Houthi movement said on Saturday it had carried out a major attack near the border with the southern Saudi region of Najran and captured many troops and vehicles, but there was no immediate confirmation from Saudi Arabian authorities.

Yemen's Houthi movement said on Saturday it had carried out a major attack near the border with the southern Saudi region of Najran and captured many troops and vehicles, but there was no immediate confirmation from Saudi Arabian authorities. The Houthis' military spokesman said in a statement that three "enemy military brigades had fallen" in the attack, which he said was launched 72 hours ago and supported by the group's drone, missile and air defence units. Houthi-run Al Masirah TV quoted the spokesman as saying the Iran-aligned movement had captured "thousands" of enemy troops, including many officers and soldiers of the Saudi army, as well as hundreds of armoured vehicles. The spokesman for a Saudi-led military coalition that has been battling the Houthi group for over four years in Yemen did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Reuters could not independently verify the claim. Yemeni government troops, supported by coalition air strikes, have in recent months been fighting Houthi forces in the Kataf region of the northern Saada province near the Saudi border. Local sources have said the Houthis had captured scores of Yemeni forces in the battles. The violence could hamper United Nations' efforts to ease tensions and pave the way for talks to end the war that has killed tens of thousands and pushed millions to the brink of famine in the long-impoverished Arabian Peninsula nation. The Sunni Muslim coalition, which receives arms and intelligence from Western countries, intervened in Yemen in March 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from power in the capital Sanaa in 2014. A U.N.-brokered prisoner swap deal agreed between the Houthis and Yemen's Saudi-backed government last December involving some 7,000 detainees on each side has yet to happen. "Operation 'Victory from God' is the largest military one since the brutal aggression began. The enemy suffered heavy losses ... and wide swathes of territory were liberated in only a few days," Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdul-Salam tweeted. The Houthis, who had recently stepped up missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities, have claimed responsibility for the largest-ever attack on Saudi oil facilities on September 14. Riyadh dismissed the claim, saying the assault did not come from Yemen and instead blamed its regional foe Shi'ite Muslim Iran. Tehran denies the charge. The Houthis said on September 20 they would halt missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia if the alliance stopped its operations. The coalition has yet to respond to the proposal. The conflict is widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The Houthis, who control Sanaa and most big urban centres, deny being puppets of Tehran and say they are fighting a corrupt system.

Attacked Saudi border frontline, captured troops: Houthis

A fire broke out in the Haramain high-speed rail station in Saudi Arabia's coastal city of Jeddah, injuring at least five people, the authorities said on Sunday.

Plumes of black smoke were still rising from the roof of the station at least four hours after the fire broke out at 12.35 p.m. (0935 GMT), Al-Ekhbariya state television footage showed.

It said civil defence were fighting the fire with air support and many sections of the blaze were under control.

Five people were transported to hospital with injuries, the official Twitter account of Mecca region reported. It said 16 medical teams were working at the scene.

Al-Ekhbariya said four people were treated on site.

The 450-km (280-mile) Haramain Railway linking the two holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina, with the Red Sea city of Jeddah, was opened in 2018 and cost 6.7 billion euros ($7.3 billion).

The station is part of efforts to boost tourism revenue as the country seeks to shed its dependence on oil exports.

A fire broke out in the Haramain high-speed rail station in Saudi Arabia's coastal city of Jeddah, injuring at least five people, the authorities said on Sunday.

A fire broke out in the Haramain high-speed rail station in Saudi Arabia's coastal city of Jeddah, injuring at least five people, the authorities said on Sunday. Plumes of black smoke were still rising from the roof of the station at least four hours after the fire broke out at 12.35 p.m. (0935 GMT), Al-Ekhbariya state television footage showed. It said civil defence were fighting the fire with air support and many sections of the blaze were under control. Five people were transported to hospital with injuries, the official Twitter account of Mecca region reported. It said 16 medical teams were working at the scene. Al-Ekhbariya said four people were treated on site. The 450-km (280-mile) Haramain Railway linking the two holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina, with the Red Sea city of Jeddah, was opened in 2018 and cost 6.7 billion euros ($7.3 billion). The station is part of efforts to boost tourism revenue as the country seeks to shed its dependence on oil exports.

Fire strikes Saudi high-speed train station, at least five injured

Saudi Arabia is attempting a comeback on the global stage one year after journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder, but the crisis has weakened it and undermined its de facto leader's ambitious reforms, analysts say.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a self-styled moderniser shaking up the conservative petro-state, was feted by global leaders and business titans before the gruesome murder in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate on October 2 last year.

But the global fallout over the killing rendered the heir to the Arab world's most powerful throne a pariah, casting a shadow on his reforms, putting the kingdom's human rights record under the microscope and testing old alliances with Western powers.

The prince has since sought to shore up his tarnished reputation, launching slick PR campaigns to win back foreign investment while accelerating what analysts call the kingdom's "eastward tilt" towards less critical allies such as China and India.

But that has only had limited success.

"The spectre of Jamal Khashoggi hangs over the kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Bruce Riedel, a former Central Intelligence Agency officer and author of a book on Saudi Arabia entitled "Kings and Presidents".

"The murdered journalist and commentator has not been forgotten, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hoped."

The crown prince tells PBS in a forthcoming documentary that he accepted responsibility for the killing, because it happened "under my watch" -- but he denied having prior knowledge.

'Globally isolated'

The CIA has reportedly concluded that the prince, who controls all major levers of power in the Saudi government, likely ordered the killing.

A report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard also said there was "credible evidence" linking him to the murder and an attempted cover up.

Her revelations, including audio transcripts showing the Saudi agents involved referring to Khashoggi as a "sacrificial animal", have piled pressure on Western allies to suspend arms sales to the kingdom.

That has come as a blow to Saudi Arabia amid heightened tensions with arch-rival Iran following major September 14 attacks on the heart of the kingdom's oil infrastructure, which Washington has blamed on Iran.

The US, a key ally of Riyadh, has announced the deployment of 200 troops as well as Patriot missiles to Saudi Arabia to bolster its defences in the wake of the attacks.

President Donald Trump has emphasised Saudi Arabia's importance as a buyer of American arms and a bulwark against common foe Iran, but American lawmakers appear in no mood to give the prince a free pass over the murder.&nbsp;

"To a degree, Khashoggi's murder has left Saudi Arabia globally isolated," said Quentin de Pimodan, a Saudi expert at the Greece-based Research Institute for European and American Studies.

"On the surface Trump has offered support to Riyadh but America insists it is not as reliant on Saudi oil as before," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"Saudi is on its own in dealing with the threat of Iran and the conflict in neighbouring Yemen."

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has cited Khashoggi's murder in opposing a potential strike on Iran in retaliation to the attacks on Saudi facilities.

"I don't see any responsibility for us to protect and defend Saudi Arabia," she told American radio network NPR.

'Murder stain'

The murder has increased the reputational risk for Western firms doing business in Saudi Arabia, even as global bankers and executives have once again been seen attending glitzy investor conferences.

The scandal also appears to have impeded Prince Mohammed's economic reforms, which seek to reduce the kingdom's reliance on oil revenues and boost private sector investment.

"Before the murder, Saudi Arabia was stepping on the accelerator of foreign business partnerships," said Ellen Wald, author of the book "Saudi Inc.".

"But the Khashoggi murder was like hitting a hill. The momentum has slowed even if progress is still in the right direction."

On Friday, Saudi Arabia announced the launch of tourism visas as part of its push to diversify the economy -- but that was an announcement that many had expected more than a year ago.

Also mired in delays is the planned stock market listing of state oil giant Aramco, a cornerstone of Prince Mohammed's reform agenda that was initially scheduled for 2018.

Despite all this, the murder has not threatened to unseat the prince.

Instead, he has tightened his grip on military and security agencies and launched a crackdown on political rivals as well as conservative clerics and women activists.

"Saudi has been hiring Western social media influencers to promote the kingdom and improve its reputation since Khashoggi's murder," de Pimodan said.

"But the murder stain will be hard to wash off."

Saudi Arabia is attempting a comeback on the global stage one year after journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder, but the crisis has weakened it and undermined its de facto leader's ambitious reforms, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia is attempting a comeback on the global stage one year after journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder, but the crisis has weakened it and undermined its de facto leader's ambitious reforms, analysts say. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a self-styled moderniser shaking up the conservative petro-state, was feted by global leaders and business titans before the gruesome murder in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate on October 2 last year. But the global fallout over the killing rendered the heir to the Arab world's most powerful throne a pariah, casting a shadow on his reforms, putting the kingdom's human rights record under the microscope and testing old alliances with Western powers. The prince has since sought to shore up his tarnished reputation, launching slick PR campaigns to win back foreign investment while accelerating what analysts call the kingdom's "eastward tilt" towards less critical allies such as China and India. But that has only had limited success. "The spectre of Jamal Khashoggi hangs over the kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Bruce Riedel, a former Central Intelligence Agency officer and author of a book on Saudi Arabia entitled "Kings and Presidents". "The murdered journalist and commentator has not been forgotten, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hoped." The crown prince tells PBS in a forthcoming documentary that he accepted responsibility for the killing, because it happened "under my watch" -- but he denied having prior knowledge. 'Globally isolated' The CIA has reportedly concluded that the prince, who controls all major levers of power in the Saudi government, likely ordered the killing. A report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard also said there was "credible evidence" linking him to the murder and an attempted cover up. Her revelations, including audio transcripts showing the Saudi agents involved referring to Khashoggi as a "sacrificial animal", have piled pressure on Western allies to suspend arms sales to the kingdom. That has come as a blow to Saudi Arabia amid heightened tensions with arch-rival Iran following major September 14 attacks on the heart of the kingdom's oil infrastructure, which Washington has blamed on Iran. The US, a key ally of Riyadh, has announced the deployment of 200 troops as well as Patriot missiles to Saudi Arabia to bolster its defences in the wake of the attacks. President Donald Trump has emphasised Saudi Arabia's importance as a buyer of American arms and a bulwark against common foe Iran, but American lawmakers appear in no mood to give the prince a free pass over the murder. "To a degree, Khashoggi's murder has left Saudi Arabia globally isolated," said Quentin de Pimodan, a Saudi expert at the Greece-based Research Institute for European and American Studies. "On the surface Trump has offered support to Riyadh but America insists it is not as reliant on Saudi oil as before," he told AFP. "Saudi is on its own in dealing with the threat of Iran and the conflict in neighbouring Yemen." US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has cited Khashoggi's murder in opposing a potential strike on Iran in retaliation to the attacks on Saudi facilities. "I don't see any responsibility for us to protect and defend Saudi Arabia," she told American radio network NPR. 'Murder stain' The murder has increased the reputational risk for Western firms doing business in Saudi Arabia, even as global bankers and executives have once again been seen attending glitzy investor conferences. The scandal also appears to have impeded Prince Mohammed's economic reforms, which seek to reduce the kingdom's reliance on oil revenues and boost private sector investment. "Before the murder, Saudi Arabia was stepping on the accelerator of foreign business partnerships," said Ellen Wald, author of the book "Saudi Inc.". "But the Khashoggi murder was like hitting a hill. The momentum has slowed even if progress is still in the right direction." On Friday, Saudi Arabia announced the launch of tourism visas as part of its push to diversify the economy -- but that was an announcement that many had expected more than a year ago. Also mired in delays is the planned stock market listing of state oil giant Aramco, a cornerstone of Prince Mohammed's reform agenda that was initially scheduled for 2018. Despite all this, the murder has not threatened to unseat the prince. Instead, he has tightened his grip on military and security agencies and launched a crackdown on political rivals as well as conservative clerics and women activists. "Saudi has been hiring Western social media influencers to promote the kingdom and improve its reputation since Khashoggi's murder," de Pimodan said. "But the murder stain will be hard to wash off."

One year on, Saudi struggles to turn page on Khashoggi murder

As Saudi Arabia opens to the world, a look at its key tourist spots

Saudi Arabia said on Friday that it will offer tourist visas for the first time, opening up the ultra-conservative kingdom to holidaymakers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil.

Kickstarting tourism is one of the centrepieces of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform programme to prepare the biggest Arab economy for a post-oil era.

The announcement comes just two weeks after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/aramco-ipo-how-saudi-arabia-caught-between-united-states-and-china-245687">devastating attacks</a> on Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure –- blamed by Washington on Iran - which roiled global energy markets.

"Opening Saudi Arabia to international tourists is a historic moment for our country," tourism chief Ahmed al-Khateeb said in a statement.

"Visitors will be surprised... by the treasures we have to share -- five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a vibrant local culture and breathtaking natural beauty."

Saudi Arabia will open applications for online tourist visas to citizens of 49 countries on Saturday, Bloomberg News quoted Khateeb as saying.

Khateeb said the kingdom will also ease its strict dress code for foreign women, allowing them to go without the body-shrouding abaya robe that is still mandatory public wear for Saudi women.

Foreign women, however, will be required to wear <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/saudi-arabia-continues-to-stifle-women-dissent-201335">"modest clothing"</a>, he added.

Hard sell

The austere kingdom, which forbids alcohol and has a strict social code, is seen by many as a hard sell for tourists.

Prince Mohammed is seeking to change that through a sweeping liberalisation drive that has brought new cinemas, mixed-gender concerts and sporting extravaganzas to Saudi Arabia.

International criticism of the kingdom's human rights record, including the gruesome murder last year of critic Jamal Khashoggi and a crackdown on female activists, could further put off foreign visitors, observers say.

Fears of a regional conflict after the September 14 attacks on state oil giant Aramco may also dampen the kingdom's appeal to holidaymakers.

Visas are currently restricted to expat workers, their dependents and Muslim pilgrims travelling to holy sites in Mecca and Medina.

Saudi Arabia last year began issuing visas to visitors to attend sporting and cultural events in a bid to kickstart tourism.

The government, reeling from low oil prices, says it hopes tourism will contribute up to 10 per cent of the gross domestic product by 2030, compared to three percent currently.

It says <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-vision-2030-embodies-saudi-quest-for-modernity-26015">by 2030 it aims to attract up to 100 million annual visits</a> by both domestic and foreign tourists.

The sector is expected to create up to one million tourism jobs, the government says, as the kingdom battles high youth unemployment.

Saudi Arabia has splurged billions in an attempt to build a tourism industry from scratch.

In 2017, the kingdom announced a multi-billion dollar project to turn 50 islands and other pristine sites on the Red Sea into luxury resorts.

The country is also developing historic sites such as the centuries-old Mada'in Saleh, home to sandstone tombs of the same civilisation which built the Jordanian city of Petra.

Saudi Arabia said on Friday that it will offer tourist visas for the first time, opening up the ultra-conservative kingdom to holidaymakers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil.

Saudi Arabia said on Friday that it will offer tourist visas for the first time, opening up the ultra-conservative kingdom to holidaymakers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil. Kickstarting tourism is one of the centrepieces of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform programme to prepare the biggest Arab economy for a post-oil era. The announcement comes just two weeks after devastating attacks on Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure –- blamed by Washington on Iran - which roiled global energy markets. "Opening Saudi Arabia to international tourists is a historic moment for our country," tourism chief Ahmed al-Khateeb said in a statement. "Visitors will be surprised... by the treasures we have to share -- five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a vibrant local culture and breathtaking natural beauty." Saudi Arabia will open applications for online tourist visas to citizens of 49 countries on Saturday, Bloomberg News quoted Khateeb as saying. Khateeb said the kingdom will also ease its strict dress code for foreign women, allowing them to go without the body-shrouding abaya robe that is still mandatory public wear for Saudi women. Foreign women, however, will be required to wear "modest clothing", he added. Hard sell The austere kingdom, which forbids alcohol and has a strict social code, is seen by many as a hard sell for tourists. Prince Mohammed is seeking to change that through a sweeping liberalisation drive that has brought new cinemas, mixed-gender concerts and sporting extravaganzas to Saudi Arabia. International criticism of the kingdom's human rights record, including the gruesome murder last year of critic Jamal Khashoggi and a crackdown on female activists, could further put off foreign visitors, observers say. Fears of a regional conflict after the September 14 attacks on state oil giant Aramco may also dampen the kingdom's appeal to holidaymakers. Visas are currently restricted to expat workers, their dependents and Muslim pilgrims travelling to holy sites in Mecca and Medina. Saudi Arabia last year began issuing visas to visitors to attend sporting and cultural events in a bid to kickstart tourism. The government, reeling from low oil prices, says it hopes tourism will contribute up to 10 per cent of the gross domestic product by 2030, compared to three percent currently. It says by 2030 it aims to attract up to 100 million annual visits by both domestic and foreign tourists. The sector is expected to create up to one million tourism jobs, the government says, as the kingdom battles high youth unemployment. Saudi Arabia has splurged billions in an attempt to build a tourism industry from scratch. In 2017, the kingdom announced a multi-billion dollar project to turn 50 islands and other pristine sites on the Red Sea into luxury resorts. The country is also developing historic sites such as the centuries-old Mada'in Saleh, home to sandstone tombs of the same civilisation which built the Jordanian city of Petra.

Saudi Arabia to offer tourist visas for the first time

Despite support from China and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/saudi-crown-prince-expected-to-seal-multi-billion-dollar-deals-in-pakistan-196969">Saudi Arabia</a> and a huge <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imf-approves-6-billion-loan-for-pakistan-to-right-the-nations-economy-232863">IMF loan that helped Pakistan</a> to address its immediate economic crisis, the United Nations on Thursday said that the country is still in the midst of a crisis.

In a brief comment on Pakistan in the Asia section, UN's Trade and Development Report 2019 said that "Pakistan is in the midst of a crisis" as the growth rate has halved, the balance of payments is in poor shape, the rupee has depreciated significantly and external debt is large and rising, reported The Dawn.

Meanwhile, the report also stated that slowdown observed in the rate of growth of the Chinese economy from 2017 onwards is projected to intensify in 2019 because of the trade and technology tensions.

The slowing of China's trade growth has a major impact on other East Asian and South-East Asian economies since it is likely that the integrated value chains spread across these economies and linked to China would be disrupted, the report noted.

The report further stated that public banking should be given back its traditional, bigger role if the environmental and economic landscape is to be transformed by 2030.

The annual fiscal deficit of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistans-belly-dance-formula-to-revive-economy-248440">Pakistan</a>&nbsp;to the highest in the last three decades at 8.9 per cent for the financial year 2018-19.

The fiscal deficit is a difference between revenues and expenditures of the federal government.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who was elected on an anti-corruption plank and a pledge to end austerity measures, had vowed to improve the depleting economic situation of the cash-strapped country.

In reality, prices of gas and oil products and electricity in Pakistan have risen considerably, burning a hole in common man's pocket.

Despite support from China and Saudi Arabia and a huge IMF loan that helped Pakistan to address its immediate economic crisis, the United Nations on Thursday said that the country is still in the midst of a crisis.

Despite support from China and Saudi Arabia and a huge IMF loan that helped Pakistan to address its immediate economic crisis, the United Nations on Thursday said that the country is still in the midst of a crisis. In a brief comment on Pakistan in the Asia section, UN's Trade and Development Report 2019 said that "Pakistan is in the midst of a crisis" as the growth rate has halved, the balance of payments is in poor shape, the rupee has depreciated significantly and external debt is large and rising, reported The Dawn. Meanwhile, the report also stated that slowdown observed in the rate of growth of the Chinese economy from 2017 onwards is projected to intensify in 2019 because of the trade and technology tensions. The slowing of China's trade growth has a major impact on other East Asian and South-East Asian economies since it is likely that the integrated value chains spread across these economies and linked to China would be disrupted, the report noted. The report further stated that public banking should be given back its traditional, bigger role if the environmental and economic landscape is to be transformed by 2030. The annual fiscal deficit of Pakistan to the highest in the last three decades at 8.9 per cent for the financial year 2018-19. The fiscal deficit is a difference between revenues and expenditures of the federal government. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who was elected on an anti-corruption plank and a pledge to end austerity measures, had vowed to improve the depleting economic situation of the cash-strapped country. In reality, prices of gas and oil products and electricity in Pakistan have risen considerably, burning a hole in common man's pocket.

Pakistan in midst of economic crisis despite support from China, IMF: U.N.

By Reem Bahdi

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has offended, humiliated and hurt several communities in Canada. The images of Trudeau in blackface invoke vile, racist and offensive stereotypes that have been used to deny the common humanity of Black communities across time.

Trudeau wore blackface on several occasions, including at an “Arabian Nights”-themed party where he also wore a stereotypical outfit. He has apologised for the blackface.

Canadians are now reflecting on the impact and significance of the prime minister’s apologies.

Leadership Matters

In her recent book, Leading With Dignity author Donna Hicks, based at Harvard’s Weatherhead Center, says leaders play a significant role in creating institutional cultures, including governments. She argues that leaders must genuinely accept other identities if they want to promote the equal dignity and worth of all people.

Trudeau’s conduct ridicules racialised communities. It signals to them that they are second-class citizens. His behaviour must be understood in political and social context.

Trudeau uses anti-Arab Clichés in Politics 
 
The prime minister invokes anti-Arab tropes when he criticizes Palestinian advocates and their allies who support Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) against Israeli occupation. For example, at a town hall in St. Catharines, Ont., in January 2019, Trudeau asserted that those who support BDS violate “Canadian values.”

People can disagree on the purpose or effectiveness of BDS.

But Trudeau’s decision to declare his opponents as un-Canadian is troubling. It invokes anti-Arab stereotypes and can be linked to a larger pattern of discrimination faced by Arabs and Muslims in Canada, groups that are often improperly conflated.

In a recent paper from the Journal of Law and Social Policy, “All Arabs Are Liars,” I examined a sample of human rights cases for common anti-Arab and anti-Muslim stereotypes. My analysis confirmed that Arabs and Muslim are stereotyped as un-Canadian or disloyal to Canada.

Stereotypes Impact People’s Lives

Stereotypes or negative tropes are not simply insulting. They help maintain a racialised status quo. They cause us to misjudge other people’s motives, abilities and actions.

For example, after the September&nbsp;11 terrorist attacks, stereotypes influenced the decisions of Canadian officials who falsely concluded that Maher Arar, a Canadian citizen, engineer and father of two, belonged to a foreign terrorist group. The officials’ decisions reflected the belief that Arabs and Muslims are not true Canadians. Such thinking contributed to Arar’s overseas torture. It is also evident in the torture of other Canadian Arab, Muslim men in several overseas instances as determined by a federal commission’s inquiry.

Various studies have confirmed that Arabs and Muslims increasingly face discrimination and stereotyping in policing and national security surveillance. Arabs and Muslims also face discrimination at border sites, public spaces, workplaces, service counters and airports

Arab Canadians Face Racism 
 
In a recent survey of Arab communities in Ontario undertaken on behalf of the Arab Canadian Lawyers Association with the support of the Law Foundation of Ontario, sociologist Suzanne McMurphy and I found that 27 per cent of people surveyed tried to hide their Arab identities.

When asked why one person explained it was because of the “prejudice and stigma associated with being Arab.” Another said: “Because it is clear to me that racism exists against Arabs and open membership can negatively affect me in the hunt for jobs.”

Unlike U.S. President Donald Trump, the Liberal government has not targeted Arab and Muslim communities. But, it has allowed anti-Arab and anti-Muslim practices to continue. It has failed to explicitly examine how its own policies diminish groups and perpetuate racial inequalities.

A Show of Diversity is Not Equity

Some point to the diversity of Trudeau’s team as a sign of his commitment to equality. But diversity and equality are not the same.

Feminists use the phrase “add women and stir” to describe the practice of including women without changing subordinating structures. The same tokenism can be taken towards racial equality.

Trudeau’s team is diverse. But the question is not simply “who does he include?” The problem is also: “On what terms does he include them?” A former Liberal adviser suggests the Trudeau team does not actually value diversity. It simply wants votes from diverse groups without fully including them in its power structures.

Meanwhile, the prime minister acknowledges that racialized people in Canada face discrimination. His apology used terms like “micro-aggressions,” “unconscious bias” and “systemic discrimination”.“

But it’s not clear that he’s internalized those concepts.

Until the prime minister demonstrates a real grasp of the dynamics of discrimination, his apologies will ring hollow.

 
(Reem Bahdi is Associate Professor, Faculy of Law, University of Windsor) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/trudeaus-blackface-apology-rings-hollow-and-highlights-anti-arab-stereotypes-123891">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

By Reem Bahdi Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has offended, humiliated and hurt several communities in Canada. The images of Trudeau in blackface invoke vile, racist and offensive stereotypes that have been used to deny the common humanity of Black communities across time.

By Reem Bahdi Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has offended, humiliated and hurt several communities in Canada. The images of Trudeau in blackface invoke vile, racist and offensive stereotypes that have been used to deny the common humanity of Black communities across time. Trudeau wore blackface on several occasions, including at an “Arabian Nights”-themed party where he also wore a stereotypical outfit. He has apologised for the blackface. Canadians are now reflecting on the impact and significance of the prime minister’s apologies. Leadership Matters In her recent book, Leading With Dignity author Donna Hicks, based at Harvard’s Weatherhead Center, says leaders play a significant role in creating institutional cultures, including governments. She argues that leaders must genuinely accept other identities if they want to promote the equal dignity and worth of all people. Trudeau’s conduct ridicules racialised communities. It signals to them that they are second-class citizens. His behaviour must be understood in political and social context. Trudeau uses anti-Arab Clichés in Politics The prime minister invokes anti-Arab tropes when he criticizes Palestinian advocates and their allies who support Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) against Israeli occupation. For example, at a town hall in St. Catharines, Ont., in January 2019, Trudeau asserted that those who support BDS violate “Canadian values.” People can disagree on the purpose or effectiveness of BDS. But Trudeau’s decision to declare his opponents as un-Canadian is troubling. It invokes anti-Arab stereotypes and can be linked to a larger pattern of discrimination faced by Arabs and Muslims in Canada, groups that are often improperly conflated. In a recent paper from the Journal of Law and Social Policy, “All Arabs Are Liars,” I examined a sample of human rights cases for common anti-Arab and anti-Muslim stereotypes. My analysis confirmed that Arabs and Muslim are stereotyped as un-Canadian or disloyal to Canada. Stereotypes Impact People’s Lives Stereotypes or negative tropes are not simply insulting. They help maintain a racialised status quo. They cause us to misjudge other people’s motives, abilities and actions. For example, after the September 11 terrorist attacks, stereotypes influenced the decisions of Canadian officials who falsely concluded that Maher Arar, a Canadian citizen, engineer and father of two, belonged to a foreign terrorist group. The officials’ decisions reflected the belief that Arabs and Muslims are not true Canadians. Such thinking contributed to Arar’s overseas torture. It is also evident in the torture of other Canadian Arab, Muslim men in several overseas instances as determined by a federal commission’s inquiry. Various studies have confirmed that Arabs and Muslims increasingly face discrimination and stereotyping in policing and national security surveillance. Arabs and Muslims also face discrimination at border sites, public spaces, workplaces, service counters and airports Arab Canadians Face Racism In a recent survey of Arab communities in Ontario undertaken on behalf of the Arab Canadian Lawyers Association with the support of the Law Foundation of Ontario, sociologist Suzanne McMurphy and I found that 27 per cent of people surveyed tried to hide their Arab identities. When asked why one person explained it was because of the “prejudice and stigma associated with being Arab.” Another said: “Because it is clear to me that racism exists against Arabs and open membership can negatively affect me in the hunt for jobs.” Unlike U.S. President Donald Trump, the Liberal government has not targeted Arab and Muslim communities. But, it has allowed anti-Arab and anti-Muslim practices to continue. It has failed to explicitly examine how its own policies diminish groups and perpetuate racial inequalities. A Show of Diversity is Not Equity Some point to the diversity of Trudeau’s team as a sign of his commitment to equality. But diversity and equality are not the same. Feminists use the phrase “add women and stir” to describe the practice of including women without changing subordinating structures. The same tokenism can be taken towards racial equality. Trudeau’s team is diverse. But the question is not simply “who does he include?” The problem is also: “On what terms does he include them?” A former Liberal adviser suggests the Trudeau team does not actually value diversity. It simply wants votes from diverse groups without fully including them in its power structures. Meanwhile, the prime minister acknowledges that racialized people in Canada face discrimination. His apology used terms like “micro-aggressions,” “unconscious bias” and “systemic discrimination”.“ But it’s not clear that he’s internalized those concepts. Until the prime minister demonstrates a real grasp of the dynamics of discrimination, his apologies will ring hollow. (Reem Bahdi is Associate Professor, Faculy of Law, University of Windsor) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Justin Trudeau’s blackface apology rings hollow and highlights anti-Arab stereotypes

Gold rose to its highest in more than a week on Monday, supported by Middle East tensions and uncertainty over US-China trade talks, while palladium hit an all-time high.

Spot gold rose 0.2 per cent to $1,519.56 per ounce at 0818 GMT per ounce, touching a high since September 12.

US gold futures rose 0.8 &nbsp;per cent to $1,527.20.

"No significant news is coming out of the trade war until and unless we have some clarity on the negotiations, gold will be supported," said Hareesh V, head of commodity research at Geojit Financial Services.

A US-China trade breakthrough seemed unlikely after President Donald Trump told reporters on Friday he was "not looking" for a partial deal and Chinese officials cancelled goodwill visits to US farmers.

But both sides later published positive statements. The US Trade Representative's office described last week's talks as "productive" and China's Commerce Ministry called them "constructive." October's high-level talks remain on track.

"On an immediate basis, gold is trading between the range of$1,465-$1,550. If the trade talks fail gold may rally to $1,660 or even higher," Hareesh said.

The bullion has risen about 18 per cent so far this year.

Tensions remained elevated in the Middle East after Washington ordered more troops to the Gulf region to strengthen Saudi Arabia's air and missile defences, following an attack on the kingdom's oil facilities. The United States has imposed more sanctions on Iran, penalizing Iran's central bank.

Saudi Arabia will appeal to a global gathering in New York this week for concerted action to punish and deter Iran after the strikes.

The dollar was nearly flat against a basket of currencies, while most Asian share markets slipped on Monday.

Holdings at SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, rose 1.2 per cent to 894.15 tonnes on Friday.

COMEX gold speculators raised net long position by 14,150 contracts to 261,878 in the week to September 17, according to the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission data.

Spot palladium rose 0.8 per cent to $1,655 per ounce, after hitting a record high at $1,664.34 earlier in the session.

"Healthy demand, constrained supply and challenging liquidity conditions are likely driving prices higher," UBS strategist Joni Teves wrote in a note.

"A breakdown of US-China trade talks, deterioration in economic data and a pullback inequity from the highs present downside risks for palladium over the remainder of the year."

Silver nearly 2 per cent to $18.33 per ounce and platinum rose 0.8 per cent to $953.05 per ounce.

Gold rose to its highest in more than a week on Monday, supported by Middle East tensions and uncertainty over US-China trade talks, while palladium hit an all-time high.

Gold rose to its highest in more than a week on Monday, supported by Middle East tensions and uncertainty over US-China trade talks, while palladium hit an all-time high. Spot gold rose 0.2 per cent to $1,519.56 per ounce at 0818 GMT per ounce, touching a high since September 12. US gold futures rose 0.8 per cent to $1,527.20. "No significant news is coming out of the trade war until and unless we have some clarity on the negotiations, gold will be supported," said Hareesh V, head of commodity research at Geojit Financial Services. A US-China trade breakthrough seemed unlikely after President Donald Trump told reporters on Friday he was "not looking" for a partial deal and Chinese officials cancelled goodwill visits to US farmers. But both sides later published positive statements. The US Trade Representative's office described last week's talks as "productive" and China's Commerce Ministry called them "constructive." October's high-level talks remain on track. "On an immediate basis, gold is trading between the range of$1,465-$1,550. If the trade talks fail gold may rally to $1,660 or even higher," Hareesh said. The bullion has risen about 18 per cent so far this year. Tensions remained elevated in the Middle East after Washington ordered more troops to the Gulf region to strengthen Saudi Arabia's air and missile defences, following an attack on the kingdom's oil facilities. The United States has imposed more sanctions on Iran, penalizing Iran's central bank. Saudi Arabia will appeal to a global gathering in New York this week for concerted action to punish and deter Iran after the strikes. The dollar was nearly flat against a basket of currencies, while most Asian share markets slipped on Monday. Holdings at SPDR Gold Trust, the world's largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, rose 1.2 per cent to 894.15 tonnes on Friday. COMEX gold speculators raised net long position by 14,150 contracts to 261,878 in the week to September 17, according to the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission data. Spot palladium rose 0.8 per cent to $1,655 per ounce, after hitting a record high at $1,664.34 earlier in the session. "Healthy demand, constrained supply and challenging liquidity conditions are likely driving prices higher," UBS strategist Joni Teves wrote in a note. "A breakdown of US-China trade talks, deterioration in economic data and a pullback inequity from the highs present downside risks for palladium over the remainder of the year." Silver nearly 2 per cent to $18.33 per ounce and platinum rose 0.8 per cent to $953.05 per ounce.

Gold hits more than one-week high on Gulf tensions

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accused Tehran of being behind attacks on Saudi oil installations, in remarks to reporters en route to New York where he will meet&nbsp;Iran's president.

"I can tell you that the UK is attributing responsibility with a very high degree of probability to Iran for the Aramco attacks," he said, cited by Britain's Press Association news agency on Monday.

He is due to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the UN General Assembly in New York.

He will also discuss the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-says-abundantly-clear-iran-was-behind-saudi-oil-attacks-250674">attacks </a>at a joint meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

"We think it very likely indeed that Iran was indeed responsible for using both UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), both drones and cruise missiles," Johnson told reporters.

"Clearly the difficulty is, how do we organise a global response? What is the way forward? And we will be working with our American friends and our European friends to construct a response that tries to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf region", he added.

The United States has accused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-release-british-flagged-tanker-within-hours-swedish-owner-251217">Tehran</a> of carrying out air attacks on Saudi Arabia's Abqaiq plant and the Khurais oil field on September 14, knocking out half the kingdom's oil production.

Iran denies responsibility for the attacks which were claimed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-present-plan-for-gulf-security-at-un-this-week-251202">Iranian-backed </a>Huthi rebels in Yemen.

Johnson said,&nbsp;"clearly if we are asked either by the Saudis or the Americans to have a role then we would consider in what way we could be useful."

The British premier also said he would raise the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian mother held in Tehran since 2016, when he meets with Rouhani.

Johnson has been accused of making her plight worse when, in a previous job as foreign minister, he said she had been training journalists in Iran before she was arrested for sedition.

Her family strongly denies this and he swiftly backtracked. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the media group's philanthropic arm, denies all charges.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accused Tehran of being behind attacks on Saudi oil installations, in remarks to reporters en route to New York where he will meet Iran's president.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accused Tehran of being behind attacks on Saudi oil installations, in remarks to reporters en route to New York where he will meet Iran's president. "I can tell you that the UK is attributing responsibility with a very high degree of probability to Iran for the Aramco attacks," he said, cited by Britain's Press Association news agency on Monday. He is due to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the UN General Assembly in New York. He will also discuss the attacks at a joint meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. "We think it very likely indeed that Iran was indeed responsible for using both UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), both drones and cruise missiles," Johnson told reporters. "Clearly the difficulty is, how do we organise a global response? What is the way forward? And we will be working with our American friends and our European friends to construct a response that tries to de-escalate tensions in the Gulf region", he added. The United States has accused Tehran of carrying out air attacks on Saudi Arabia's Abqaiq plant and the Khurais oil field on September 14, knocking out half the kingdom's oil production. Iran denies responsibility for the attacks which were claimed by Iranian-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen. Johnson said, "clearly if we are asked either by the Saudis or the Americans to have a role then we would consider in what way we could be useful." The British premier also said he would raise the case of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian mother held in Tehran since 2016, when he meets with Rouhani. Johnson has been accused of making her plight worse when, in a previous job as foreign minister, he said she had been training journalists in Iran before she was arrested for sedition. Her family strongly denies this and he swiftly backtracked. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the media group's philanthropic arm, denies all charges.

Iran behind attacks on Saudi oil sites: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson

The United Nations envoy for Yemen welcomed Saturday an offer from the country's Houthi rebels to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-say-aramco-plants-still-a-target-report-249938">halt all attacks on Saudi Arabia</a>, saying it could bring an end to years of bloody conflict.

Implementation of the initiative by the Houthis "in good faith could send a powerful message of the will to end the war," Special Envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths said.&nbsp;

The Iran-backed Houthis, which control the capital Sanaa and other parts of Yemen, have been fighting against a Saudi-led coalition which supports the country's internationally recognized government in a devastating five-year war.

Griffiths hailed "the desire for a political solution to end the conflict" in a statement issued from UN headquarters in New York.

On Friday, the Houthis proposed halting attacks on Saudi Arabia as part of a peace initiative.

Saudi Arabia gave a cautious response, with the minister of state for foreign affairs Adel al-Jubeir saying on Saturday, "We judge other parties by their deeds, actions and not by their words, so we will see (whether) they actually do this or not."

Griffiths stressed "the importance of taking advantage of this opportunity and moving forward with all necessary steps to reduce violence, military escalation and unhelpful rhetoric."

The Houthis' announcement comes after a wave of drone strikes last weekend on Saudi oil installations, which knocked out half of Saudi Arabia's production and sent shock waves through energy markets.&nbsp;

The attacks were claimed by Yemen's Houthis, but the United States says it has concluded the strikes involved cruise missiles from Iran.

Yemen's conflict has killed tens of thousands of people -- most of them civilians -- and driven millions more to the brink of famine in what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

The United Nations envoy for Yemen welcomed Saturday an offer from the country's Houthi rebels to halt all attacks on Saudi Arabia, saying it could bring an end to years of bloody conflict.

The United Nations envoy for Yemen welcomed Saturday an offer from the country's Houthi rebels to halt all attacks on Saudi Arabia, saying it could bring an end to years of bloody conflict. Implementation of the initiative by the Houthis "in good faith could send a powerful message of the will to end the war," Special Envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths said. The Iran-backed Houthis, which control the capital Sanaa and other parts of Yemen, have been fighting against a Saudi-led coalition which supports the country's internationally recognized government in a devastating five-year war. Griffiths hailed "the desire for a political solution to end the conflict" in a statement issued from UN headquarters in New York. On Friday, the Houthis proposed halting attacks on Saudi Arabia as part of a peace initiative. Saudi Arabia gave a cautious response, with the minister of state for foreign affairs Adel al-Jubeir saying on Saturday, "We judge other parties by their deeds, actions and not by their words, so we will see (whether) they actually do this or not." Griffiths stressed "the importance of taking advantage of this opportunity and moving forward with all necessary steps to reduce violence, military escalation and unhelpful rhetoric." The Houthis' announcement comes after a wave of drone strikes last weekend on Saudi oil installations, which knocked out half of Saudi Arabia's production and sent shock waves through energy markets. The attacks were claimed by Yemen's Houthis, but the United States says it has concluded the strikes involved cruise missiles from Iran. Yemen's conflict has killed tens of thousands of people -- most of them civilians -- and driven millions more to the brink of famine in what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

United Nations welcomes Houthi offer to halt all attacks on Saudi Arabia

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will present a plan for creating security in the Gulf in cooperation with other countries in the region when he attends the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will present a plan for creating security in the Gulf in cooperation with other countries in the region when he attends the United Nations General Assembly in New York this week. Saudi Arabia and the United States accuse Iran of attacking Saudi oil facilities on September 14, the biggest such assault on the world's top oil exporter. Iran denies involvement in the attack, which was claimed by Yemen's Houthi movement, a group aligned with Iran and currently fighting a Saudi-led alliance in Yemen’s civil war. "This year we will present a plan to the world at the United Nations that the Islamic Republic of Iran in cooperation with the countries of the region can create security for the Persian Gulf and the Oman sea with the help of the countries of the region," Rouhani was cited as saying on his official website. He did not provide further details. US President Donald Trump on Friday approved sending American troops to bolster Saudi Arabia’s air and missile defences after the attacks on Saudi oil sites. Rouhani said the presence of foreign forces in the region would create insecurity for oil and shipping. Saudi Arabia has described the strikes on the Abqaiq and Khurais facilities as a test of whether there is global will to preserve international order, and will seek to form a united front at the United Nations General Assembly. "We are not someone who will violate the borders of others just as we will not allow anyone to violate our borders," Rouhani said at a ceremony commemorating the anniversary of the start of Iran’s 1980-1988 war with Iraq, according to his website. Separately, the head of Iran's navy said the Islamic Republic would defend itself against any aggression. "In case of any miscalculation and aggression by the enemy, (the navy), along with other armed forces of the country, will give the most crushing reaction in the shortest time possible," Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi was cited as saying by the semi-official Mehr news agency. Ballistic missiles, speedboats and warships were shown in video footage on state TV as part of the ceremonies. A domestically built long-range, surface-to-air missile air defence system, the Bavar-373, which Iranian media have described as a competitor to the Russian S-300 missile system, was also on display, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. Last year, gunmen attacked a military parade commemorating the anniversary in the city of Ahvaz, killing 25, about half of whom were members of the elite Revolutionary Guards. At the time, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the highest authority in Iran, accused Saudi Arabia of backing the attackers, which Riyadh denied.

Iran to present plan for Gulf security at United Nations this week

If an investigation shows that last week's attack on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-sending-troops-to-bolster-saudi-defences-after-attack-250910">Saudi Arabian oil facilities</a> was launched from Iranian territory, the kingdom would consider it an act of war, but Riyadh is currently seeking a peaceful resolution, a senior Saudi official said.

"We hold Iran responsible because the missiles and the drones that were fired at Saudi Arabia... were Iranian-built and Iranian-delivered," Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir told CNN late on Saturday.

"But to launch an attack from your territory, if that is the case, puts us in a different category... this would be considered an act of war."

Jubeir told reporters earlier that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-says-it-will-respond-appropriately-if-probe-confirms-irans-role-in-attacks-251076">Riyadh was awaiting the results of a probe</a>, which it has invited international investigators to join, into the Sept. 14 strikes which initially halved Saudi production, the largest-ever assault on oil facilities in the world's top oil exporter.

Riyadh has rejected a claim by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement that it carried out the strikes. Washington has blamed Iran, which denies any involvement.

"If they continue along this path, then they risk the possibility of military action," Jubeir said of Tehran. "But nobody wants war. Everybody wants to resolve this peacefully and the end result has to be an end to Iran's aggressive policies."

Saudi Arabia has called the strikes on Abqaiq and Khurais facilities as a test of global will to preserve international order and will look to form a united front at the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week.

"Appeasement with Iran does not work. For example, trying to set up a parallel financial payment system is appeasement. Trying to give them a line of credit is appeasement. It just emboldens them," said Jubeir.

"The Iranians have to know that there will be consequences to their actions."

If an investigation shows that last week's attack on Saudi Arabian oil facilities was launched from Iranian territory, the kingdom would consider it an act of war, but Riyadh is currently seeking a peaceful resolution, a senior Saudi official said.

If an investigation shows that last week's attack on Saudi Arabian oil facilities was launched from Iranian territory, the kingdom would consider it an act of war, but Riyadh is currently seeking a peaceful resolution, a senior Saudi official said. "We hold Iran responsible because the missiles and the drones that were fired at Saudi Arabia... were Iranian-built and Iranian-delivered," Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir told CNN late on Saturday. "But to launch an attack from your territory, if that is the case, puts us in a different category... this would be considered an act of war." Jubeir told reporters earlier that Riyadh was awaiting the results of a probe, which it has invited international investigators to join, into the Sept. 14 strikes which initially halved Saudi production, the largest-ever assault on oil facilities in the world's top oil exporter. Riyadh has rejected a claim by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement that it carried out the strikes. Washington has blamed Iran, which denies any involvement. "If they continue along this path, then they risk the possibility of military action," Jubeir said of Tehran. "But nobody wants war. Everybody wants to resolve this peacefully and the end result has to be an end to Iran's aggressive policies." Saudi Arabia has called the strikes on Abqaiq and Khurais facilities as a test of global will to preserve international order and will look to form a united front at the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week. "Appeasement with Iran does not work. For example, trying to set up a parallel financial payment system is appeasement. Trying to give them a line of credit is appeasement. It just emboldens them," said Jubeir. "The Iranians have to know that there will be consequences to their actions."

Saudi Arabia says if attack launched from Iran, it would be an act of war: Report

The U.S Sends Troops to Bolster Saudi Defences after Attack

Iran's central bank hit with sanctions

Trump to deploy more troops to Saudi Arabia after attack. Watch video to know more.

Trump to deploy more troops to Saudi Arabia after attack

The United States announced Friday that it was sending military reinforcements to the Gulf region following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-says-abundantly-clear-iran-was-behind-saudi-oil-attacks-250674">attacks on Saudi oil facilities</a> that it attributes to Iran, just hours after President Donald Trump ordered new sanctions on Tehran.

Trump said the sanctions were the toughest-ever against another country but indicated he did not plan a military strike, calling restraint a sign of strength.

The Treasury Department renewed action against Iran's central bank after US officials said Tehran carried out weekend attacks on rival Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure, which triggered a spike in global crude prices.

Those attacks, combined with an Iranian attack on an American spy drone in June, represented a "dramatic escalation of Iranian aggression," Secretary of Defence Mark Esper said.

The Pentagon chief announced that the United States would send <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/attacks-on-oil-facilities-unquestionably-sponsored-by-iran-saudi-arabia-250580">military reinforcements to the Gulf region</a> at the request of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

"In response to the kingdom's request, the president has approved the deployment of US forces, which will be defensive in nature, and primarily focused on air and missile defence," Esper said.&nbsp;

However, Joint Chiefs of Staff Joe Dunford categorized the deployment as "moderate," with the number of troops not expected to reach the thousands.

Earlier in the day Trump attacked both critics who thought the mogul-turned-president would trigger war and hawks seeking a military response.

"The easiest thing I could do (is) knock out 15 different major things in Iran," Trump said.

"But I think the strong-person approach and the thing that does show strength would be showing a little bit of restraint," he said.

Trump in June authorized a military strike after Iran shot down the US spy drone, only to call it off at the last moment.&nbsp;

Extensive damage

Saudi Arabia on Friday revealed extensive damage from the strikes on state giant Aramco's facilities in Khurais and the world's largest oil processing facility at Abqaiq.

The attacks, which knocked out half of Saudi Arabia's oil production, have been claimed by Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels, but Washington has pointed its finger at Tehran, condemning the strikes as an "act of war."

Abqaiq was struck 18 times while nearby Khurais was hit four times in a raid that triggered multiple explosions and towering flames that took hours to extinguish, Aramco officials said.

Aramco flew dozens of international journalists to the two sites to show it was speeding up repairs, giving rare access to the nerve centre of the world's largest oil producer as it seeks to shore up investor confidence ahead of a planned initial public offering (IPO).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Yemen's Huthi rebels, who have repeatedly targeted key Saudi infrastructure in recent months in cross-border attacks, unexpectedly announced late Friday that they planned to halt all strikes on the country.

The move, they said, was part of a peace initiative to end their country's devastating conflict which has killed tens of thousands of people -- most of them civilians -- and driven millions more to the brink of famine.

Iran denies US and Saudi accusations that it arms the Huthis.

New ground for sanctions

The United States already maintains sweeping sanctions on Iran including on its central bank, with anyone who deals with it subject to prosecution, due to Tehran's alleged nuclear program.

But the new sanctions Friday were imposed for the additional reason of "terrorism," Treasury said, adding that Iran's central bank had provided "billions of dollars" to two groups blacklisted by the United States.

WION Dispatch: Saudi Arabia presents proof against Iran

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-saudi-arabia-presents-proof-against-iran-250651/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Treasury's action targets a crucial funding mechanism that the Iranian regime uses to support its terrorist network, including the Qods Force, Hezbollah and other militants that spread terror and destabilize the region," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

The Qods Force conducts international operations for Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards, while Hezbollah, the Shiite militant group and political party in Lebanon, is among Iran's closest regional partners.

Iran responded that the move showed that the United States was running out of options.

The United States also imposed sanctions on Iran's sovereign wealth fund, whose board of trustees includes President Hassan Rouhani, as well as Etemad Tejarate Pars, a company that the Treasury Department said had sent money internationally on behalf of Iran's defence ministry.

Trump recently said that he hopes for talks with Rouhani, who responded that Trump must first ease sanctions.

Last year Trump pulled out of a nuclear accord with Iran negotiated under former president Barack Obama, sending tensions soaring as he tried to stop all countries from buying Iran's oil.

The United States announced Friday that it was sending military reinforcements to the Gulf region following attacks on Saudi oil facilities that it attributes to Iran, just hours after President Donald Trump ordered new sanctions on Tehran.

The United States announced Friday that it was sending military reinforcements to the Gulf region following attacks on Saudi oil facilities that it attributes to Iran, just hours after President Donald Trump ordered new sanctions on Tehran. Trump said the sanctions were the toughest-ever against another country but indicated he did not plan a military strike, calling restraint a sign of strength. The Treasury Department renewed action against Iran's central bank after US officials said Tehran carried out weekend attacks on rival Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure, which triggered a spike in global crude prices. Those attacks, combined with an Iranian attack on an American spy drone in June, represented a "dramatic escalation of Iranian aggression," Secretary of Defence Mark Esper said. The Pentagon chief announced that the United States would send military reinforcements to the Gulf region at the request of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. "In response to the kingdom's request, the president has approved the deployment of US forces, which will be defensive in nature, and primarily focused on air and missile defence," Esper said. However, Joint Chiefs of Staff Joe Dunford categorized the deployment as "moderate," with the number of troops not expected to reach the thousands. Earlier in the day Trump attacked both critics who thought the mogul-turned-president would trigger war and hawks seeking a military response. "The easiest thing I could do (is) knock out 15 different major things in Iran," Trump said. "But I think the strong-person approach and the thing that does show strength would be showing a little bit of restraint," he said. Trump in June authorized a military strike after Iran shot down the US spy drone, only to call it off at the last moment. Extensive damage Saudi Arabia on Friday revealed extensive damage from the strikes on state giant Aramco's facilities in Khurais and the world's largest oil processing facility at Abqaiq. The attacks, which knocked out half of Saudi Arabia's oil production, have been claimed by Yemen's Iran-backed Huthi rebels, but Washington has pointed its finger at Tehran, condemning the strikes as an "act of war." Abqaiq was struck 18 times while nearby Khurais was hit four times in a raid that triggered multiple explosions and towering flames that took hours to extinguish, Aramco officials said. Aramco flew dozens of international journalists to the two sites to show it was speeding up repairs, giving rare access to the nerve centre of the world's largest oil producer as it seeks to shore up investor confidence ahead of a planned initial public offering (IPO). Meanwhile, Yemen's Huthi rebels, who have repeatedly targeted key Saudi infrastructure in recent months in cross-border attacks, unexpectedly announced late Friday that they planned to halt all strikes on the country. The move, they said, was part of a peace initiative to end their country's devastating conflict which has killed tens of thousands of people -- most of them civilians -- and driven millions more to the brink of famine. Iran denies US and Saudi accusations that it arms the Huthis. New ground for sanctions The United States already maintains sweeping sanctions on Iran including on its central bank, with anyone who deals with it subject to prosecution, due to Tehran's alleged nuclear program. But the new sanctions Friday were imposed for the additional reason of "terrorism," Treasury said, adding that Iran's central bank had provided "billions of dollars" to two groups blacklisted by the United States. WION Dispatch: Saudi Arabia presents proof against Iran "Treasury's action targets a crucial funding mechanism that the Iranian regime uses to support its terrorist network, including the Qods Force, Hezbollah and other militants that spread terror and destabilize the region," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. The Qods Force conducts international operations for Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards, while Hezbollah, the Shiite militant group and political party in Lebanon, is among Iran's closest regional partners. Iran responded that the move showed that the United States was running out of options. The United States also imposed sanctions on Iran's sovereign wealth fund, whose board of trustees includes President Hassan Rouhani, as well as Etemad Tejarate Pars, a company that the Treasury Department said had sent money internationally on behalf of Iran's defence ministry. Trump recently said that he hopes for talks with Rouhani, who responded that Trump must first ease sanctions. Last year Trump pulled out of a nuclear accord with Iran negotiated under former president Barack Obama, sending tensions soaring as he tried to stop all countries from buying Iran's oil.

US sending more troops to Gulf, Trump announces Iran sanctions

Saudi Arabia will take appropriate steps to respond to an attack on its oil facilities if, as expected, a Saudi investigation confirms that Iran is responsible, a senior official said on Saturday.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir said the probe would prove that the September&nbsp;14 strikes came from the north and that Iran bore responsibility, a charge Tehran denies.

Riyadh has rejected a claim by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement that it carried out the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-aramco-has-emerged-from-attacks-stronger-than-ever-ceo-251027">strikes on two oil plants</a> that initially halved Saudi production, the largest-ever assault on oil facilities in the world's top oil exporter.

It has already said the investigation so far shows that Iranian weapons were used and the attack originated from the north, and that it was pinpointing the exact location.

Saudi Arabia will take appropriate steps to respond to an attack on its oil facilities if, as expected, a Saudi investigation confirms that Iran is responsible, a senior official said on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia will take appropriate steps to respond to an attack on its oil facilities if, as expected, a Saudi investigation confirms that Iran is responsible, a senior official said on Saturday. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir said the probe would prove that the September 14 strikes came from the north and that Iran bore responsibility, a charge Tehran denies. Riyadh has rejected a claim by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement that it carried out the strikes on two oil plants that initially halved Saudi production, the largest-ever assault on oil facilities in the world's top oil exporter. It has already said the investigation so far shows that Iranian weapons were used and the attack originated from the north, and that it was pinpointing the exact location.

Saudi says it will respond appropriately if probe confirms Iran's role in attacks

US President <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-new-us-sanctions-on-iran-central-bank-250885">Donald Trump</a> on Friday approved sending American troops to bolster Saudi Arabia's air and missile defences after the largest-ever attack on the kingdom`s oil facilities, which Washington has squarely blamed on Iran.

The Pentagon said the deployment would involve a moderate number of troops - not numbering thousands - and would be primarily defensive in nature. It also detailed plans to expedite delivery of military equipment to both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Reuters has previously reported that the Pentagon was considering sending anti-missile batteries, drones and more fighter jets. The United States is also considering keeping an aircraft carrier in the region indefinitely.

Watch: Saudi Arabia presents proof against Iran

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"In response to the kingdom`s request, the president has approved the deployment of US forces, which will be defensive in nature and primarily focussed on air and missile defence," US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said at a news briefing.

"We will also work to accelerate the delivery of military equipment to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE to enhance their ability to defend themselves."

The Pentagon's late Friday announcement appeared to close the door to any imminent decision to wage retaliatory strikes against Iran following the attack, which rattled global markets and exposed major gaps in Saudi Arabia's air defences.

Trump said earlier on Friday that he believed his military restraint so far showed "strength," as he instead imposed another round of economic sanctions on Tehran.

"Because the easiest thing I could do, 'Okay, go ahead. Knock out 15 different major things in Iran.' ... But I’m not looking to do that if I can," Trump told reporters at the White House.

But the deployment could further aggravate Iran, which has responded to previous US troop deployments this year with apprehension. It denies responsibility for the attack on Saudi Arabia.

Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement, which has been battling a Saudi-led military coalition that includes the UAE, has claimed responsibility for the strikes.

Did attack launch from Iran?

Relations between the United States and Iran have deteriorated sharply since Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear accord last year and reimposed sanctions on its oil exports.

For months, Iranian officials issued veiled threats, saying that if Tehran were blocked from exporting oil, other countries would not be able to do so either.

However, Iran has denied any role in a series of attacks in recent months, including bombings of tankers in the Gulf and strikes claimed by the Houthis.

US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, have fingered southwest Iran as the staging ground for the attack, an assessment based at least in part on still-classified imagery showing Iran appearing to prepare an aerial strike.

They have dismissed Houthi claims that the attacks originated in Yemen.

One of the officials told Reuters the strike may have been authorized by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The United States is wary of getting dragged into another conflict in the Middle East. It has troops positioned in Syria and Iraq, two countries where Iranian influence is strong and Iran-backed forces operate openly.

US officials fear Iran`s proxies might attempt to strike American troops there, something that could easily trigger a broader regional conflict.

Saudi Arabia has said it was attacked by a total of 25 drones and missiles, including Iranian Delta Wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and "Ya Ali" cruise missiles.

US Marine General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said officials were still hammering out the best array of capabilities to defend Saudi Arabia, noting the difficulty combating a swarm of drones.

"No single system is going to be able to defend against a threat like that, but a layered system of defensive capabilities would mitigate the risk of swarms of drones or other attacks that may come from Iran," Dunford said.

US President Donald Trump on Friday approved sending American troops to bolster Saudi Arabia's air and missile defences after the largest-ever attack on the kingdom`s oil facilities, which Washington has squarely blamed on Iran.

US President Donald Trump on Friday approved sending American troops to bolster Saudi Arabia's air and missile defences after the largest-ever attack on the kingdom`s oil facilities, which Washington has squarely blamed on Iran. The Pentagon said the deployment would involve a moderate number of troops - not numbering thousands - and would be primarily defensive in nature. It also detailed plans to expedite delivery of military equipment to both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Reuters has previously reported that the Pentagon was considering sending anti-missile batteries, drones and more fighter jets. The United States is also considering keeping an aircraft carrier in the region indefinitely. Watch: Saudi Arabia presents proof against Iran "In response to the kingdom`s request, the president has approved the deployment of US forces, which will be defensive in nature and primarily focussed on air and missile defence," US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said at a news briefing. "We will also work to accelerate the delivery of military equipment to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE to enhance their ability to defend themselves." The Pentagon's late Friday announcement appeared to close the door to any imminent decision to wage retaliatory strikes against Iran following the attack, which rattled global markets and exposed major gaps in Saudi Arabia's air defences. Trump said earlier on Friday that he believed his military restraint so far showed "strength," as he instead imposed another round of economic sanctions on Tehran. "Because the easiest thing I could do, 'Okay, go ahead. Knock out 15 different major things in Iran.' ... But I’m not looking to do that if I can," Trump told reporters at the White House. But the deployment could further aggravate Iran, which has responded to previous US troop deployments this year with apprehension. It denies responsibility for the attack on Saudi Arabia. Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement, which has been battling a Saudi-led military coalition that includes the UAE, has claimed responsibility for the strikes. Did attack launch from Iran? Relations between the United States and Iran have deteriorated sharply since Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear accord last year and reimposed sanctions on its oil exports. For months, Iranian officials issued veiled threats, saying that if Tehran were blocked from exporting oil, other countries would not be able to do so either. However, Iran has denied any role in a series of attacks in recent months, including bombings of tankers in the Gulf and strikes claimed by the Houthis. US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, have fingered southwest Iran as the staging ground for the attack, an assessment based at least in part on still-classified imagery showing Iran appearing to prepare an aerial strike. They have dismissed Houthi claims that the attacks originated in Yemen. One of the officials told Reuters the strike may have been authorized by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The United States is wary of getting dragged into another conflict in the Middle East. It has troops positioned in Syria and Iraq, two countries where Iranian influence is strong and Iran-backed forces operate openly. US officials fear Iran`s proxies might attempt to strike American troops there, something that could easily trigger a broader regional conflict. Saudi Arabia has said it was attacked by a total of 25 drones and missiles, including Iranian Delta Wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and "Ya Ali" cruise missiles. US Marine General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said officials were still hammering out the best array of capabilities to defend Saudi Arabia, noting the difficulty combating a swarm of drones. "No single system is going to be able to defend against a threat like that, but a layered system of defensive capabilities would mitigate the risk of swarms of drones or other attacks that may come from Iran," Dunford said.

Trump administration sending troops to bolster Saudi defences after attack

Drones: The future of warfare?

Imran Khan's attempt to garner Saudi's support

Pakistan PM Visits Saudi Arabia again

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday performed Umrah with his wife Bushra Bibi.

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-planning-bigger-attack-than-balakot-imran-khan-in-pok-assembly-243024">Imran Khan</a> donned an ihram (the sacred dress of Muslim pilgrims), Bibi was seen covered in a&nbsp;burqa from head to toe. Both were seen holding hands while performing Umrah.

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Prime Minister Imran Khan preformed Umrah, the doors of the Holy Kaaba were also opened for PM Imran and his delegation. 
PM Khan and his delegation were bestowed with the opportunity of going inside Holy Kaaba, they prayed for the people of Kashmir and Muslim world there. <a href="https://t.co/1AndkPSbvw">pic.twitter.com/1AndkPSbvw</a>
— PTI Multan (@PTIOfficialMTN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTIOfficialMTN/status/1174984179127345152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-little-to-cheer-in-pakistan-pm-imran-khans-first-year-238649">Pakistan Prime Minister</a> is on a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia to muster support from the Islamic nation on the Kashmir issue.

In Saudi Arabia, Khan met the Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and discussed Kashmir apart from trade, investment, and economic relations.

This is the second time that Khan and his third wife have performed Umrah. Last year, the cricketer-turned-politician married his spiritual advisor.

In May, Khan went on an 'Umrah' pilgrimage to Mecca with the First Lady during his visit to Saudi Arabia for the 14th Summit of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday performed Umrah with his wife Bushra Bibi. While Imran Khan donned an ihram (the sacred dress of Muslim pilgrims), Bibi was seen covered in a burqa from head to toe.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday performed Umrah with his wife Bushra Bibi. While Imran Khan donned an ihram (the sacred dress of Muslim pilgrims), Bibi was seen covered in a burqa from head to toe. Both were seen holding hands while performing Umrah. Prime Minister Imran Khan preformed Umrah, the doors of the Holy Kaaba were also opened for PM Imran and his delegation. PM Khan and his delegation were bestowed with the opportunity of going inside Holy Kaaba, they prayed for the people of Kashmir and Muslim world there. pic.twitter.com/1AndkPSbvw — PTI Multan (@PTIOfficialMTN) September 20, 2019 × The Pakistan Prime Minister is on a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia to muster support from the Islamic nation on the Kashmir issue. In Saudi Arabia, Khan met the Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and discussed Kashmir apart from trade, investment, and economic relations. This is the second time that Khan and his third wife have performed Umrah. Last year, the cricketer-turned-politician married his spiritual advisor. In May, Khan went on an 'Umrah' pilgrimage to Mecca with the First Lady during his visit to Saudi Arabia for the 14th Summit of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Pakistan PM Imran Khan visits Mecca, performs Umrah with wife

Kuwait has raised the security alert level at all of its ports, including the oil terminals, the state-run Kuwait News Agency reported on Friday, citing a decision by Trade and Industry Minister Khaled Al-Roudhan.

"The decision emphasises that all measures have to be taken to protect the vessels and the ports facilities," it said.

The announcement comes after two important oil production facilities in neighboring <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-says-abundantly-clear-iran-was-behind-saudi-oil-attacks-250674">Saudi Arabia were hit by drones</a> and missiles on September 14, curtailing the crude output of the world's top oil exporter.

Yemen's Houthi group claimed the attacks but a US&nbsp;official said they originated from southwestern Iran. Tehran, which support the Houthis, denied any involvement in the attacks.

Kuwait has raised the security alert level at all of its ports, including the oil terminals, the state-run Kuwait News Agency reported on Friday, citing a decision by Trade and Industry Minister Khaled Al-Roudhan.

Kuwait has raised the security alert level at all of its ports, including the oil terminals, the state-run Kuwait News Agency reported on Friday, citing a decision by Trade and Industry Minister Khaled Al-Roudhan. "The decision emphasises that all measures have to be taken to protect the vessels and the ports facilities," it said. The announcement comes after two important oil production facilities in neighboring Saudi Arabia were hit by drones and missiles on September 14, curtailing the crude output of the world's top oil exporter. Yemen's Houthi group claimed the attacks but a US official said they originated from southwestern Iran. Tehran, which support the Houthis, denied any involvement in the attacks.

Kuwait raises security alert level at oil and commercial ports: State media

US support for Saudi Arabia an irony, Watch video to know more.

US support for Saudi Arabia an irony

The Houthi movement attracts its Zaidi-Shia followers in Yemen by promoting regional political-religious issues in its media, including the overarching US-Israeli conspiracy and Arab collusion.

Who are the Houthis? Know their history

Amidst heightened tensions in the region following the drone attack on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-heading-to-saudi-arabia-over-iran-tensions-pence-250263">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> on Wednesday met Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) and expressed support for the Kingdom's right to defend itself.

"Met with #Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today to discuss the unprecedented attacks against Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure. The US&nbsp;stands with #SaudiArabia and supports its right to defend itself. The Iranian regime's threatening behaviour will not be tolerated," Pompeo said in a tweet.

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Met with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Saudi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Saudi</a> Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today to discuss the unprecedented attacks against Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure. The U.S. stands with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiArabia</a> and supports its right to defend itself. The Iranian regime’s threatening behavior will not be tolerated.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1174451339042144256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A US State Department spokesperson said Pompeo discussed "the recent attacks by Iran against oil facilities in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-aramco-pursues-ipo-planning-despite-attack-damage-doubts-250228">Saudi Arabia</a>" with the Saudi Crown Prince.

Both of them agreed that "this was an unacceptable and unprecedented attack that not only threatened Saudi Arabian national security but also endangered the lives of all the American citizens living and working in Saudi Arabia, as well as the world's energy supply in general."

"The Secretary and the Crown Prince discussed the need for the international community to come together to counter the continued threat of the Iranian regime and agreed that the Iranian regime must be held accountable for its continued aggressive, reckless, and threatening behaviour," the Spokesperson added.

The drone attack on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia was claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran.

The attack took place on Saturday escalating tensions in the region.

Amidst heightened tensions in the region following the drone attack on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday met Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) and expressed support for the Kingdom's right to defend itself.

Amidst heightened tensions in the region following the drone attack on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday met Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) and expressed support for the Kingdom's right to defend itself. "Met with #Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today to discuss the unprecedented attacks against Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure. The US stands with #SaudiArabia and supports its right to defend itself. The Iranian regime's threatening behaviour will not be tolerated," Pompeo said in a tweet. Met with #Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today to discuss the unprecedented attacks against Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure. The U.S. stands with #SaudiArabia and supports its right to defend itself. The Iranian regime’s threatening behavior will not be tolerated. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) September 18, 2019 × A US State Department spokesperson said Pompeo discussed "the recent attacks by Iran against oil facilities in Saudi Arabia" with the Saudi Crown Prince. Both of them agreed that "this was an unacceptable and unprecedented attack that not only threatened Saudi Arabian national security but also endangered the lives of all the American citizens living and working in Saudi Arabia, as well as the world's energy supply in general." "The Secretary and the Crown Prince discussed the need for the international community to come together to counter the continued threat of the Iranian regime and agreed that the Iranian regime must be held accountable for its continued aggressive, reckless, and threatening behaviour," the Spokesperson added. The drone attack on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia was claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran. The attack took place on Saturday escalating tensions in the region.

US stands with Saudi Arabia, says Mike Pompeo after meeting Crown Prince

Saudi Arabia unveils new ‘evidence’ proving Iranian involvement in oil attacks. Watch video to know more.

Saudi Arabia unveils new ‘evidence’ proving Iranian involvement in oil attacks

Global Oil Markets Jittery After Strikes On Oil Facilities In Saudi Arabia

Gravitas: Saudi Energy Minister: Oil Output will be back online

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