Arab states express solidarity with Saudi Arabia over suicide bomb blast

Shattered windows as man walks by building where Saudi officials say Abdullah Al-Shehri blew himself up during arrest. (AFP)
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Updated 13 August 2022
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Arab states express solidarity with Saudi Arabia over suicide bomb blast

  • Abdullah Al-Shehri detonated a suicide vest when authorities attempted to arrest him in Jeddah, injuring four
  • Arab world praised the Kingdom's effort to maintain security and safeguard lives

DUBAI: Arab nations have expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia on Saturday in the wake of the death of a suicide bomber in Jeddah.

Abdullah Al-Shehri detonated a suicide vest when authorities attempted to arrest him in Jeddah, injuring a Pakistani resident and three security men.

In a statement, the UAE condemned the blast, reiterating its stance against “all threats to the Kingdom’s security and stability.”

The country’s ministry of foreign affairs commended the efficiency of the Saudi security forces during the operation and measures taken to maintain public safety, conveying wishes for a speedy recovery of those injured in the blast.

Bahrain was another Gulf country that reaffirmed “unwavering solidarity” with Saudi Arabia and commended relentless efforts to preserve national security. It also praised the vigilance of security forces in dealing with the wanted man.

Kuwait reiterated its backing to the Kingdom’s effort against security threats. “Kuwait stands by Saudi Arabia and supports all measures it may take to safeguard its security and the safety of its people,” Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement published by state news agency (KUNA).

The ministry lauded the efficient security operation and the authorities’ targeted efforts to block any bid that poses a threat to the Kingdom’s stability.

In a statement published by the state news agency (PETRA), Jordan conveyed support to the Kingdom “in every step taken to protect its security.”
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Haitham Abu Alfoul praised efforts of Saudi security forces in addressing threats to the Kingdom’s stability and safety.

 

 

Egypt also voiced support to Saudi Arabia’s fight against “all forms of terrorism” and any violation that threatens national security.  

In an official statement, the Egyptian foreign ministry hailed the Kingdom’s proactive measures and capabilities to track down terrorists and safeguard lives.  

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned the bombing and praised the Kingdom’s firm action against any threat that undermines its safety and security.

Meanwhile, Arab Parliament Speaker Adel Al-Asoumi stressed on his confidence in the Kingdom’s vigilance to protect its vital facilities, combat terrorism, and ensure the safety of its citizens and expats.

On Friday, the Saudi security state announced the operation of tracking down and arresting Al-Shehri, who was among nine wanted individuals involved in a 2015 terrorist operation that targeted a mosque in Saudi Arabia. He has been listed as a wanted person by authorities in the Kingdom for the past seven years, according to the statement.


Saudi foreign minister: Youth are ‘future leaders’, ’messengers of peace’

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Saudi foreign minister: Youth are ‘future leaders’, ’messengers of peace’

  • Prince Faisal chairs opening session of Global Forum of UN Alliance of Civilizations

RIYADH/SYDNEY: Youth are the leaders of the future and messengers of peace, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah said on Sunday. 
He made the remarks at the opening of the 11th Global Forum of the UN Alliance of Civilizations in Riyadh. 
Saudi Arabia is hosting the forum under the theme: “Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity: Advancing a New Era of Mutual Respect and Understanding in a Multipolar World.” 
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations Miguel Angel Moratinos attended the forum. 
The event also featured foreign ministers, political and religious leaders, heads of international organizations, and civil society representatives. 
In his opening address, the foreign minister affirmed that hosting the forum demonstrates the Kingdom’s support for UN efforts to promote dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among civilizations and cultures. 
He said that Saudi Vision 2030 reflects a national commitment to moderation, openness to other civilizations, and opposition to hate speech and extremism. 
Prince Faisal said that the 11th session of the UN Alliance of Civilizations provides an opportunity to review past efforts and exchange ideas on managing diversity through communication and dialogue among civilizations and religions. 
The minister highlighted the important role of youth in fostering a peaceful and tolerant world. 

He said: “They are the leaders of the future and messengers of peace.”
Prince Faisal expressed his pleasure at the strong youth participation. “In this context, I cannot help but express my great pleasure at seeing so many young people in this hall.” 
He said that a dedicated youth forum will be held alongside the main event, and the venue will also host the graduation ceremony for the eighth cohort of the Salam Project for Civilizational Communication’s Young Leaders Qualification Program. 
“Accordingly, it can be said that this UN Alliance of Civilizations forum is a forum for youth,” he added. 
The forum aims to review two decades of global dialogue, address current challenges, and plan future collaboration to enhance mutual understanding and support international peace and stability.