About 20 US Democrat senators including some senior Democrats have written to the American President Joe Biden to express their very serious concerns about a potential deal between the United States and Saudi Arabia

US democrats skeptical of security guarantees to Saudi Arabia

Israeli minister Shlomo Karhi to visit Saudi Arabia to address Universal Conference | WION Dispatch

Israeli minister Shlomo Karhi to visit Saudi Arabia to address Universal Conference

For the first time in 13 years, a Saudi delegation visited the occupied west bank. This included Riyadh’s first non-resident ambassador to occupied Palestinian territories Naif Al Sudairi. Regional watchers are calling the visit a big step in Israel, Saudi truce. How does this development impact the region's dynamics?

Official visits between Saudi, Israel highlight warming ties

A delegation from Saudi Arabia arrived in the occupied West Bank this morning amid talk that the Kingdom is on the verge of normalising relations with the apartheid state of Israel. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the delegation was led by the non-resident envoy to the Palestinian territories, Nayef Al-Sudairi.

West Bank: Saudi delegation arrives amid talk of normalisation with Israel

A Chinese activist pleaded for authorities not to deport him after he landed at Taiwan's international airport Friday (Sep 22), and requested asylum from the United States and Canada.

Chinese activist Chen Siming asks Taiwan not to deport him

Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman says he does not care about accusations of 'sportswashing' as long as it adds to the country's GDP.

Saudi Arabia Crown Prince unfazed by sportswashing allegations

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in a U.S. television interview that his country was moving steadily closer to normalizing relations with Israel and also warned that if Iran gets a nuclear weapon, “we have to get one.”

Saudi Crown Prince MBS says ties with Israel getting ‘closer’

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in a US television interview that his country was moving steadily closer to normalizing relations with Israel and also warned that if Iran gets a nuclear weapon, “we have to get one.”

Saudi-Israel deal brokered by US could push influence against Iran

Saudi Arabia plans to develop more than 100 historic sites in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, the destinations for millions of Muslims around the world. The plan was disclosed by the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al Rabiah at a ceremony in Mecca on Monday.

Saudi Arabia to overhaul 100 historical sites in Mecca, Medina

<p>Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said the kingdom will obtain a nuclear weapon if its rival Iran does so first, in a wide-ranging interview with Fox News on Wednesday (September 20), wherein he touched upon the normalisation of ties with Israel as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If they (Iran) get&nbsp;one (nuclear weapon), we have to get one," MBS could be heard saying in one of the video&nbsp;clips of the interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about the threats associated, MBS said the kingdom is&nbsp;“concerned” whenever any country acquires a nuclear weapon. However, he suggests that no one would use a nuclear weapon because this would mean starting a “war with the rest of the world”.</p>

<p>"Any country use a nuclear weapon that means they are having a war with the rest of the world. The world cannot see another Hiroshima. If the world sees 100,000 people dead that mean you are in a war with the rest of the world," said MBS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since former US president Donald Trump reneged on the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and the Joe Biden administration refused to get back to it, Tehran has sped up its nuclear advances - threatening the stability of the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, it was in 2016 that Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, announced its plan to build 16 nuclear reactors over the next two decades with a budget of $80 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two years later, the kingdom approved its national atomic energy policy which limits the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, some experts believe that Riyadh is trying to hedge its bets as arch-rival Iran continues to make waves with its nuclear weapons programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud last year made statements, echoing the crown prince's version,&nbsp;saying the kingdom will take steps to shore up its security if Tehran gets an 'operational nuclear weapon'.</p>

<p>"If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off. We are in a very dangerous space in the region...you can expect that regional states will certainly look towards how they can ensure their own security."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/if-iran-gets-an-operational-nuclear-weapon-all-bets-are-off-says-saudi-foreign-minister-542163"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;'If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off', says Saudi foreign minister</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Every day we get closer: MBS on normalisation of ties with Israel</strong></h2>

<p>In another part of the interview, MBS touched upon the peace deal with Israel and said progress was being made to realise normalisation in the ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Every day we get closer, it seems it's for the first time real one serious. We get to see how it goes," said MBS, adding that the Palestinian issue in the context of normalisation with Israel remained significant.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-aa-component="paragraph" data-allow-readmode="">“For us, the Palestinian issue is very important. We need to solve that part. We got to see where we go. We hope that will reach a place, that it will ease the life of the Palestinians, get Israel as a player in the Middle East,” he added.</p>

<p data-aa-component="paragraph" data-allow-readmode=""><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-netanyahu-hold-talks-pledge-to-normalize-israeli-saudi-ties-638024"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Biden and Netanyahu hold talks, pledge to normalise Israeli-Saudi ties</strong></a></p>

<p>The statement by the crown prince came hours after&nbsp;United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met on the sidelines of the UNGA and vowed to forge a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said the kingdom will obtain a nuclear weapon if its rival Iran does so first, in a wide-ranging interview with Fox News on Wednesday (September 20), wherein he touched upon the normalisation of ties with Israel as well.

Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) said the kingdom will obtain a nuclear weapon if its rival Iran does so first, in a wide-ranging interview with Fox News on Wednesday (September 20), wherein he touched upon the normalisation of ties with Israel as well. "If they (Iran) get one (nuclear weapon), we have to get one," MBS could be heard saying in one of the video clips of the interview. Speaking about the threats associated, MBS said the kingdom is “concerned” whenever any country acquires a nuclear weapon. However, he suggests that no one would use a nuclear weapon because this would mean starting a “war with the rest of the world”. "Any country use a nuclear weapon that means they are having a war with the rest of the world. The world cannot see another Hiroshima. If the world sees 100,000 people dead that mean you are in a war with the rest of the world," said MBS. Ever since former US president Donald Trump reneged on the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and the Joe Biden administration refused to get back to it, Tehran has sped up its nuclear advances - threatening the stability of the region. Notably, it was in 2016 that Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, announced its plan to build 16 nuclear reactors over the next two decades with a budget of $80 billion. Two years later, the kingdom approved its national atomic energy policy which limits the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. However, some experts believe that Riyadh is trying to hedge its bets as arch-rival Iran continues to make waves with its nuclear weapons programme. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud last year made statements, echoing the crown prince's version, saying the kingdom will take steps to shore up its security if Tehran gets an 'operational nuclear weapon'. "If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off. We are in a very dangerous space in the region...you can expect that regional states will certainly look towards how they can ensure their own security." Watch | 'If Iran gets an operational nuclear weapon, all bets are off', says Saudi foreign minister × Every day we get closer: MBS on normalisation of ties with Israel In another part of the interview, MBS touched upon the peace deal with Israel and said progress was being made to realise normalisation in the ties. “Every day we get closer, it seems it's for the first time real one serious. We get to see how it goes," said MBS, adding that the Palestinian issue in the context of normalisation with Israel remained significant. “For us, the Palestinian issue is very important. We need to solve that part. We got to see where we go. We hope that will reach a place, that it will ease the life of the Palestinians, get Israel as a player in the Middle East,” he added. Also read | Biden and Netanyahu hold talks, pledge to normalise Israeli-Saudi ties The statement by the crown prince came hours after United States President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met on the sidelines of the UNGA and vowed to forge a historic peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Saudi crown prince says kingdom will obtain nuclear weapon if Iran does so

Saudi Crown Prince MBS says Israel normalisation getting ‘closer’

Saudi Arabia has invited a Houthi delegation to Riyadh for talks on a Yemen ceasefire. Watch the video to know more.

Saudi Arabia invites Yemen's Houthi delegation to Riyadh for ceasefire talks

India, U.S, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union have seemingly check-mated Chinese President Xi Jinping by establishing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to connect Asia and Europe by promoting economic integration.

New spice route & geopolitical ramifications

In a bid to secure vital metals for their respective energy transitions, the United States and Saudi Arabia are engaged in talks that could reshape the global electric vehicle supply chain.

US and Saudi Arabia in talks for metals partnership in Africa

China's BRI has a new rival. India, US, Saudi Arabia and the European Union announced a multinational rail and ports deal on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The corridor will link India with the Middle East and Europe. The move is seen as a weapon to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative. Watch this video to know more.

Experts weigh in on ambitious economic corridor announced at G20 summit. Will it counter China's BRI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held the first Leaders’ Meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council in Delhi on Monday.

Indian PM, Saudi Crown Prince hold first strategic meet, discuss energy, defence

The Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, arrived in Delhi on Saturday. He is in India for a three-day state visit, and while there, he will take part in the G20 Summit. Ashwini Vaishnaw, a minister for the Union, welcomed Mohammed bin Salman.

G20 Summit 2023: Saudi crown prince arrives in New Delhi

In the 12 months ending in July, the U.S. Census Bureau found that China's percentage of U.S. Goods imports dropped to its lowest level since 2006. The latest data indicated that China supplied an average of 14.6% of imported goods during that time. That's down from a high of 21.8% in the year leading up to March of 2018, driven by trade tensions with Asia.

American businesses restructuring supply chains amid china shift

The latest education Ministry orders parents of children who stay away from school for over 20 days without a good reason could reportedly get imprisoned.

Saudi Arabia: Parents to get jailed if students miss school

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Education said on Thursday that parents of students, who remain absent from school for 20 days without an excuse or reason, could be imprisoned by the authorities.

Students skipping school in Saudi Arabia can put parents in jail

<p>In a significant course of action against the disruptions caused by the airlines, Saudi Arabia has introduced new amendments for consumer rights protection, allowing air travellers to receive compensation for various disruptions caused by the airlines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) stated that these changes aim to enhance the passenger experience and support the growth objectives of the aviation sector in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are the new rules?</strong></h2>

<p>Under the new rules, passengers will have the option to cancel their journey in the event of flight delays. Compensation of up to 200 per cent of their ticket price can be claimed by passengers if flights are cancelled, overbooked, or make unscheduled stopovers. Additionally, travellers whose baggage is lost or damaged by the airline can receive monetary compensation of up to $1,750 (SAR 6,568), as outlined in the GACA statement.</p>

<h2><strong>When will the new rules come into effect?</strong></h2>

<p>These regulations will take effect on November 20 of this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The regulations&nbsp;will address issues such as ticketing, boarding, in-flight services, baggage handling, and accessibility for passengers with special needs.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/direct-cairo-delhi-flight-launched-after-pm-modis-egypt-visit-622607">Direct Cairo-Delhi flight launched after PM Modi's Egypt visit</a></strong></p>

<p>Abdulaziz al-Dahmash, the Vice President of GACA for Quality and Passenger Experience, said that these changes prioritise passengers by strengthening regulations to ensure better service quality during travel disruptions. He added that these regulations align with the broader Saudi Aviation Strategy growth agenda.</p>

<p>“The regulations cover new ground in supporting passengers affected by travel disruptions and support the Kingdom’s broader Saudi Aviation Strategy growth agenda,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>How the decision was made?</strong></h2>

<p>Before announcing these regulations, the aviation authority consulted various stakeholders, including the public, air service providers, and international organisations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India is world's 3rd-largest air passenger market</strong></p>

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<p>In a related effort, GACA's head, Abdulaziz al-Duailej, previously announced plans to invest over $100 billion in the aviation sector within seven years, with a goal of expanding airport capacity to handle 330 million passengers by 2030. The plan also includes increasing services to 250 destinations, which is projected to contribute $75 billion within the same timeframe.</p>

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In a significant course of action against the disruptions caused by the airlines, Saudi Arabia has introduced new amendments for consumer rights protection, allowing air travellers to receive compensation for various disruptions caused by the airlines.

In a significant course of action against the disruptions caused by the airlines, Saudi Arabia has introduced new amendments for consumer rights protection, allowing air travellers to receive compensation for various disruptions caused by the airlines. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) stated that these changes aim to enhance the passenger experience and support the growth objectives of the aviation sector in Saudi Arabia. What are the new rules? Under the new rules, passengers will have the option to cancel their journey in the event of flight delays. Compensation of up to 200 per cent of their ticket price can be claimed by passengers if flights are cancelled, overbooked, or make unscheduled stopovers. Additionally, travellers whose baggage is lost or damaged by the airline can receive monetary compensation of up to $1,750 (SAR 6,568), as outlined in the GACA statement. When will the new rules come into effect? These regulations will take effect on November 20 of this year. The regulations will address issues such as ticketing, boarding, in-flight services, baggage handling, and accessibility for passengers with special needs. Also read | Direct Cairo-Delhi flight launched after PM Modi's Egypt visit Abdulaziz al-Dahmash, the Vice President of GACA for Quality and Passenger Experience, said that these changes prioritise passengers by strengthening regulations to ensure better service quality during travel disruptions. He added that these regulations align with the broader Saudi Aviation Strategy growth agenda. “The regulations cover new ground in supporting passengers affected by travel disruptions and support the Kingdom’s broader Saudi Aviation Strategy growth agenda,” he added. How the decision was made? Before announcing these regulations, the aviation authority consulted various stakeholders, including the public, air service providers, and international organisations. Also watch | India is world's 3rd-largest air passenger market × In a related effort, GACA's head, Abdulaziz al-Duailej, previously announced plans to invest over $100 billion in the aviation sector within seven years, with a goal of expanding airport capacity to handle 330 million passengers by 2030. The plan also includes increasing services to 250 destinations, which is projected to contribute $75 billion within the same timeframe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia mandates heavy compensation for flyers in new aviation rules to combat flight disruptions

Saudi Arabia witnessed a spell of strong winds and severe lightning storms on Tuesday, causing widespread damage across the west Asian nation.

Strong winds & lightning storms witnessed in Mecca, Jeddah

UK's Metropolitan Police has decided to drop a probe against King Charles's Charities. The probe was launched after media reports suggested that a Saudi businessman was offered honours after making donations to one of the Charities. The UK police said the prosecutors failed to establish that any of the offences have been committed.

UK King Charles' charities donations under scanner

A new report indicates that Russia is using Japanese, South Korean machines to produce drones.

Russia-Ukraine war: Is Russia using Western military components?

Is saudi arabia rethinking ties with Iran? Saudi Arabia recently called on its citizens to quickly leave Lebanese territory, where the Iran-backed Hezbollah group wields significant power. Rival armed groups are clashing in the Palestinian camp of Ain el-Hilweh in the country's south. Ain el-Hilweh is the largest of 12 Palestinian camps in Lebanon, hosting around 80,000 of up to 250,000 Palestinian refugees countrywide. The clashes come at a time when the united states are pushing for a Saudi-Israel normalisation deal. Some analysts say the Saudi-Iran deal in March challenged Washington's role as the main outside power broker in West Asia. Here's a look at what's brewing in the region...

US still the main outside power broker in West Asia? | Lebanon: Clashes in Palestinian camp

As members of his far-right government rule out making concessions to the Palestinians as part of any deal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's national security adviser claims that the path to normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia is "still long."

'Road to normalising ties with Saudi Arabia ‘still long’', says Israeli official

The white house has dispatched its national security advisor Jake Sullivan to Saudi Arabia for talks with Saudi crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman.

White House advisor Jake Sullivan meets Saudi crown prince

<p>England midfielder Jordan Henderson has entered the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, parting ways with&nbsp;Liverpool, on a three-year deal. The development was confirmed by both the clubs on Thursday (July 27).&nbsp;As per reports in the British media, Henderson acquired a big deal as the Saudi club -- who recently hired Steven Gerrard as the manager --&nbsp;would pay approximately a whopping 12 million pounds ($15.55 million) to the ex-Liverpool skipper along with add-ons.</p>

<p>Thus, the 33-year-old&nbsp;is likely to receive a weekly salary of around 700,000 pounds, according to British media. Henderson, who ended his 12-year-stint at Anfield, shared an emotional post on his official Instagram account, on Wednesday (July 16), as he confirmed his departure and wrote, "It's hard to put these last 12 years into words and it's even harder to say goodbye. I will always be a Red. Until the day I die. Thank you for everything. You'll never walk alone."</p>

<p>Henderson had a merry run in Liverpool, playing close to 500 games across all competitions -- such as the&nbsp;Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup. However, his move to the Saudi Arabian side is also making waves for another reason. Saudi is a place where&nbsp;homosexuality is illegal and Henderson has often been a vocal advocate&nbsp;for LGBTQ+ rights as well as an avid supporter of Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfer-jordan-henderson-confirms-liverpool-exit-after-12-years-joins-steven-gerrard-at-al-ettifaq-619852">Football Transfer: Jordan Henderson confirms Liverpool exit after 12 years, joins Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq</a></strong></p>

<p>As for the Al-Ettifaq club, it finished at the seventh spot in&nbsp;the top-tier Saudi Pro League last season. With the admission of Henderson and an astute young manager in Gerrard, a lot is expected of the club in the coming years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about Gerrard's signing, it surprised many as English managers often stay in their home country. After his move to the Saudi, his former teammate Ryan Babel told&nbsp; talkSPORT,&nbsp;"Initially, of course, it is surprising [that he went to manage there]. Overall if you look at especially English managers, they tend to stay in England, but at the same time, I feel like we are entering in a new wave of new managers, right? Young managers, former players."</p>

<p>He further added, "Look, at the end of the day we don’t know if Steven Gerrard had a lot of possibilities at this very moment, but I feel like as a manager if you’re out of the picture for too long maybe the door is slowly getting shut on you for these types of opportunities. Maybe it was one of those things he felt like ‘Hey, I want to stay busy, I’m still young, this is right now the opportunity I’ve got so let’s grab it'."</p>

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England midfielder Jordan Henderson has entered the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, parting ways with Liverpool, on a three-year deal. The development was confirmed by both the clubs on Thursday (July 27).

England midfielder Jordan Henderson has entered the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, parting ways with Liverpool, on a three-year deal. The development was confirmed by both the clubs on Thursday (July 27). As per reports in the British media, Henderson acquired a big deal as the Saudi club -- who recently hired Steven Gerrard as the manager -- would pay approximately a whopping 12 million pounds ($15.55 million) to the ex-Liverpool skipper along with add-ons. Thus, the 33-year-old is likely to receive a weekly salary of around 700,000 pounds, according to British media. Henderson, who ended his 12-year-stint at Anfield, shared an emotional post on his official Instagram account, on Wednesday (July 16), as he confirmed his departure and wrote, "It's hard to put these last 12 years into words and it's even harder to say goodbye. I will always be a Red. Until the day I die. Thank you for everything. You'll never walk alone." Henderson had a merry run in Liverpool, playing close to 500 games across all competitions -- such as the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup. However, his move to the Saudi Arabian side is also making waves for another reason. Saudi is a place where homosexuality is illegal and Henderson has often been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights as well as an avid supporter of Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign. Also read: Football Transfer: Jordan Henderson confirms Liverpool exit after 12 years, joins Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq As for the Al-Ettifaq club, it finished at the seventh spot in the top-tier Saudi Pro League last season. With the admission of Henderson and an astute young manager in Gerrard, a lot is expected of the club in the coming years. Speaking about Gerrard's signing, it surprised many as English managers often stay in their home country. After his move to the Saudi, his former teammate Ryan Babel told talkSPORT, "Initially, of course, it is surprising [that he went to manage there]. Overall if you look at especially English managers, they tend to stay in England, but at the same time, I feel like we are entering in a new wave of new managers, right? Young managers, former players." He further added, "Look, at the end of the day we don’t know if Steven Gerrard had a lot of possibilities at this very moment, but I feel like as a manager if you’re out of the picture for too long maybe the door is slowly getting shut on you for these types of opportunities. Maybe it was one of those things he felt like ‘Hey, I want to stay busy, I’m still young, this is right now the opportunity I’ve got so let’s grab it'." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

OFFICIAL! Liverpool's Jordan Henderson joins Saudi club Al-Ettifaq on a three-year deal

<p>On Thursday (July 27), it became official that England midfielder and Liverpool star Jordan Herderson has moved to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Henderson had already shared a heartfelt post before both clubs made it official on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this came the end of Henderson's run in the Reds, where he spent 12 years and featured in&nbsp;nearly 500 games across&nbsp;competitions, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reacted to Henderson's move and said 'it is sad, absolutely strange'.</p>

<h2><strong>'We will miss him as a man and as a player'</strong></h2>

<p>On Liverpool's official website, Klopp pointed out, "It's sad, absolutely strange, because he is the only captain I had here at Liverpool, but I think it is exciting for him as well. We will miss him, without a shadow of a doubt, that's clear - as a man and as a player. But, as I said, that's football."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-liverpools-jordan-henderson-joins-saudi-club-al-ettifaq-on-a-three-year-deal-619985">It's OFFICIAL. Liverpool's Jordan Henderson joins Saudi club Al-Ettifaq on a three-year deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Klopp further opined, "Hendo is a really good package, a really good package. There is the physical part, but there is the super-technical part. He is technically really, really good. You cannot have this amount of Premier League games, you cannot be captain of Liverpool, you cannot play in the most important games in the world if you are technically not on a super-high level - and he is. Right foot, left foot really good."</p>

<p>"Let me say, this midfield Fabinho, Hendo, Gini and then Millie, these four for three positions, I think nobody would have said it would be a successful midfield because something is lacking - but nothing was lacking because the boys were all a real package. That's what was so good and Hendo was a super-important part of that," he added.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that&nbsp;Al-Ettifaq would be paying about 12 million pounds ($15.55 million) along with&nbsp;add-ons for the former Liverpool captain Henderson, as per reports in the British media.</p>

<p>The 33-year-old, who is set to don&nbsp;the number 10 shirt in his new club, is expected to receive a whopping weekly salary of approximately 700,000 pounds, as per reports, in Al-Ettifaq. He has signed a three-year deal with the club, who finished seventh in the top-tier Saudi Pro League last season.</p>

<p>Recently, Steven Gerrard -- another Liverpool legend -- also joined Al-Ettifaq as the manager.</p>

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On Thursday (July 27), it became official that England midfielder and Liverpool star Jordan Herderson has moved to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Henderson had already shared a heartfelt post before both clubs made it official on Thursday.

On Thursday (July 27), it became official that England midfielder and Liverpool star Jordan Herderson has moved to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Henderson had already shared a heartfelt post before both clubs made it official on Thursday. With this came the end of Henderson's run in the Reds, where he spent 12 years and featured in nearly 500 games across competitions, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reacted to Henderson's move and said 'it is sad, absolutely strange'. 'We will miss him as a man and as a player' On Liverpool's official website, Klopp pointed out, "It's sad, absolutely strange, because he is the only captain I had here at Liverpool, but I think it is exciting for him as well. We will miss him, without a shadow of a doubt, that's clear - as a man and as a player. But, as I said, that's football." Also read: It's OFFICIAL. Liverpool's Jordan Henderson joins Saudi club Al-Ettifaq on a three-year deal Klopp further opined, "Hendo is a really good package, a really good package. There is the physical part, but there is the super-technical part. He is technically really, really good. You cannot have this amount of Premier League games, you cannot be captain of Liverpool, you cannot play in the most important games in the world if you are technically not on a super-high level - and he is. Right foot, left foot really good." "Let me say, this midfield Fabinho, Hendo, Gini and then Millie, these four for three positions, I think nobody would have said it would be a successful midfield because something is lacking - but nothing was lacking because the boys were all a real package. That's what was so good and Hendo was a super-important part of that," he added. It is to be noted that Al-Ettifaq would be paying about 12 million pounds ($15.55 million) along with add-ons for the former Liverpool captain Henderson, as per reports in the British media. The 33-year-old, who is set to don the number 10 shirt in his new club, is expected to receive a whopping weekly salary of approximately 700,000 pounds, as per reports, in Al-Ettifaq. He has signed a three-year deal with the club, who finished seventh in the top-tier Saudi Pro League last season. Recently, Steven Gerrard -- another Liverpool legend -- also joined Al-Ettifaq as the manager. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We will miss him': Jurgen Klopp reacts as Jordan Henderson leaves Liverpool to join Saudi club Al-Ettifaq

<p>Former Liverpool player Ryan Babel recently opened up on Steven Gerrard's surprising move to manage Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Babel, who shared the Liverpool dressing room with Gerrard, feels there is a trend&nbsp;of young managers and former players entering the managerial world. He believes this&nbsp;might have played a part in Gerrard's mind to consider switching&nbsp;to the Saudi.</p>

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<h2><strong>'We are entering in a new wave of new managers'</strong></h2>

<p>"Initially, of course, it is surprising [that he went to manage there]. Overall if you look at especially English managers, they tend to stay in England, but at the same time, I feel like we are entering in a new wave of new managers, right? Young managers, former players," Babel said while speaking on talkSPORT.</p>

<p>He further added, "Look, at the end of the day we don’t know if Steven Gerrard had a lot of possibilities at this very moment, but I feel like as a manager if you’re out of the picture for too long maybe the door is slowly getting shut on you for these types of opportunities. Maybe it was one of those things he felt like ‘Hey, I want to stay busy, I’m still young, this is right now the opportunity I’ve got so let’s grab it'."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-scores-twice-as-inter-miami-crush-atlanta-to-reach-knockout-round-of-the-leagues-cup-619454">Lionel Messi scores twice as Inter Miami crush Atlanta to reach knockout round of the Leagues Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>Backing Babel's point of view, there is a huge influx of players and young managers in the Saudi Pro League, mainly due to financial gains. While English managers mostly prefer to stay in their home country, Gerrard's move might have come as a surprise but it can surely be seen as the beginning of a new trend. Much of this will depend on how he progresses&nbsp;in managing&nbsp;Al-Ettifaq.</p>

<h2><strong>'When I went to Saudi I got a real family feeling'</strong></h2>

<p>On being a part of the Saudi club, Gerrard told Al-Ettifaq's Twitter account on July 23 (Sunday), "When I went to Saudi I got a real family feeling. It made me actually feel welcomed. There are three things I always consider in order -- it needs to be right for my family first and foremost. We have to be excited and motivated by the challenge."</p>

<p>"Secondly I think the football project needs to be ambitious, it needs to be for the right reasons, and then of course you need to feel secure with the contract, but this comes at the very end," he stated.</p>

<p>In recent times, Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr), Karim Benzeme (Al-Ittihad), etc. have moved to the Saudi League. Even&nbsp;Robbie Fowler, a former teammate of Gerrard,&nbsp;recently took over as the coach of the Saudi second-division team Al-Qadsiah.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All eyes are now on Gerrard and how Al-Ettifaq fares under his guidance. In the last season, they ended seventh in the top-tier Saudi&nbsp;League.</p>

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Former Liverpool player Ryan Babel recently opened up on Steven Gerrard's surprising move to manage Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Babel, who shared the Liverpool dressing room with Gerrard, feels there is a trend of young managers and former players entering the managerial world.

Former Liverpool player Ryan Babel recently opened up on Steven Gerrard's surprising move to manage Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Babel, who shared the Liverpool dressing room with Gerrard, feels there is a trend of young managers and former players entering the managerial world. He believes this might have played a part in Gerrard's mind to consider switching to the Saudi. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ettifaq Club | نادي الاتفاق (@ettifaq) × 'We are entering in a new wave of new managers' "Initially, of course, it is surprising [that he went to manage there]. Overall if you look at especially English managers, they tend to stay in England, but at the same time, I feel like we are entering in a new wave of new managers, right? Young managers, former players," Babel said while speaking on talkSPORT. He further added, "Look, at the end of the day we don’t know if Steven Gerrard had a lot of possibilities at this very moment, but I feel like as a manager if you’re out of the picture for too long maybe the door is slowly getting shut on you for these types of opportunities. Maybe it was one of those things he felt like ‘Hey, I want to stay busy, I’m still young, this is right now the opportunity I’ve got so let’s grab it'." Also read: Lionel Messi scores twice as Inter Miami crush Atlanta to reach knockout round of the Leagues Cup Backing Babel's point of view, there is a huge influx of players and young managers in the Saudi Pro League, mainly due to financial gains. While English managers mostly prefer to stay in their home country, Gerrard's move might have come as a surprise but it can surely be seen as the beginning of a new trend. Much of this will depend on how he progresses in managing Al-Ettifaq. 'When I went to Saudi I got a real family feeling' On being a part of the Saudi club, Gerrard told Al-Ettifaq's Twitter account on July 23 (Sunday), "When I went to Saudi I got a real family feeling. It made me actually feel welcomed. There are three things I always consider in order -- it needs to be right for my family first and foremost. We have to be excited and motivated by the challenge." "Secondly I think the football project needs to be ambitious, it needs to be for the right reasons, and then of course you need to feel secure with the contract, but this comes at the very end," he stated. In recent times, Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr), Karim Benzeme (Al-Ittihad), etc. have moved to the Saudi League. Even Robbie Fowler, a former teammate of Gerrard, recently took over as the coach of the Saudi second-division team Al-Qadsiah. All eyes are now on Gerrard and how Al-Ettifaq fares under his guidance. In the last season, they ended seventh in the top-tier Saudi League. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'It is.....' Ryan Babel reacts to Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard's move to Saudi as Al-Ettifaq manager

The latest round of voluntary crude oil output cuts evidence the cooperation between heavyweight producers and allies Russia and Saudi Arabia, the kingdom’s Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said on Wednesday.

Saudi energy minister says latest Riyadh-Moscow oil cuts showed unity with Russia

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