Saudi Cabinet emphasizes continued importance of Palestinian cause

King Salman chaired the session. (SPA)
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Updated 06 May 2020
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Saudi Cabinet emphasizes continued importance of Palestinian cause

  • Ministers also briefed during virtual meeting on latest COVID-19 developments
  • Members reiterate condemnation of terrorist attack last week in Sinai that left 10 Egyptian soldiers dead

RIYADH: The Saudi Cabinet on Tuesday affirmed that the Palestinian cause remains a “central issue” for Arabs and Muslims.

During a virtual meeting chaired by King Salman, ministers also reviewed the outcome of an emergency meeting of Arab League foreign ministers, convened last week, that condemned plans by the Israeli authorities to annex Palestinian land.

As part of a unity government agreement between Likud and Blue and White, the Israeli parliament is expected in the coming months to vote on extending Israeli sovereignty over parts of the West Bank.

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The Cabinet also reviewed the latest developments in the coronavirus crisis, including the precautions and preventive measures that have been taken by the Saudi authorities to limit the spread of the virus, and the care being provided to those who are infected. They were briefed on levels of preparedness, and plans to preserve public health and limit the effects of the pandemic.

Ministers also reviewed the findings of a study that identified coronavirus hot spots in the Kingdom, and traced the movements and contacts of patients to help prevent further outbreaks. In addition, they were updated on the efforts to help Saudi nationals in other countries who want to return to the Kingdom.




The Cabinet met via video link on Tuesday. (SPA)

Cabinet members praised the strenuous efforts being made by government agencies, committees and task forces to combat the pandemic and limit its effects, particularly on health.

After the meeting, acting Minister of Media Majed Al-Gasabi told the Saudi Press Agency that the cabinet also highlighted the Kingdom’s affirmation, during a recent virtual meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement, of its commitment to the objectives and principles relating to the response to the pandemic. These include closer collaboration and transparency between all nations to enhance the global response to the health, economic and social repercussions of the crisis.

The Cabinet also reiterated the Kingdom’s condemnation of a terrorist attack in Sinai on April 30 that killed 10 Egyptian soldiers. Ministers affirmed Saudi Arabia’s solidarity with Egypt in its war on terrorism, and passed on their condolences and sympathy to the Egyptian government and people, and to the families of those who died.


Najran’s camels are embedded in local culture and traditions

Camels are not only a vital livestock resource in Najran, but also a cornerstone of local identity and tradition. (SPA)
Updated 25 December 2025
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Najran’s camels are embedded in local culture and traditions

  • Several distinct camel breeds are found in the region
  • Animals permeate Arab consciousness, says expert

RIYADH: In Najran, camels are not only a vital livestock resource but also a cornerstone of local identity and tradition.

According to Hadi Benyan Al-Amer, head of Najran’s Camel Association, the region has several distinct camel breeds.

Principal among them is the Awarik, an ancient Arabian lineage linked to territories where arak trees flourish, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.

These light-colored, sparsely-haired camels possess remarkable resilience, and are prevalent across southern Arabia.

The Majahim are characterized by dark hues spanning black to brown, and excel in both milk yield and endurance.

The Asayil are prized for their sleek, lean physiques, and dominate in speed-based competitions.

Al-Amer said traditional water sources known as Odood, or traditional water wells and artesian wells, have sustained herders navigating the Empty Quarter’s grazing lands for generations.

These permanent water points, equipped with dedicated drinking basins for camels, showcase the animals’ extraordinary environmental resilience.

Among the principal wells accessible from Najran are Al-Minkhali, Abu Shadid, Hamra Nathil, Tamani, Umm Al-Wahat, and Khujaima.

Countless additional wells dot the Empty Quarter and adjacent territories, forming the backbone of camel owners’ far-reaching pastoral networks.

Dr. Hind bint Dawood Al-Shuqair of Najran University’s Arabic Language Department explained how camels have permeated Arab consciousness through legends and stories spanning thousands of years.

Representing endurance, power, and grace, they have become inseparable from Arab cultural identity.

Archaeological evidence at Al-Ukhdood, Mount Al-Tharwa and Hima, preserves through carvings and ancient artwork the deep bond between people and camels, Al-Shuqair said.

She drew attention to Saudi Arabia’s substantial investment in camel heritage, exemplified by proclaiming 2024 as the Year of the Camel.

This designation emphasizes their importance to national prosperity and cultural heritage while backing global initiatives to promote awareness of camels as valuable economic and cultural assets.

The Kingdom further demonstrates its commitment to protecting the animals through the annual King Abdulaziz Festival, the SPA reported.