Saudi FM discusses Gaza, Yemen and Sudan with Blinken

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a phone call from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday. (File/AFP)
Short Url
Updated 17 June 2024
Follow

Saudi FM discusses Gaza, Yemen and Sudan with Blinken

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received a phone call from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

During the call, the two officials discussed developments in the Gaza Strip, Yemen, and Sudan.


King Abdulaziz Foundation reveals rare images from king’s 1916 Basra visit

Updated 20 December 2025
Follow

King Abdulaziz Foundation reveals rare images from king’s 1916 Basra visit

  • Photographs form part of a wider collection documented by British photographer Gertrude Bell

RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Foundation has revealed archival photographs documenting King Abdulaziz’s tour of the outskirts of Basra in 1916, a visit that came at an early stage of his efforts to build regional relationships.

One of the photographs, taken by British photographer Gertrude Bell, shows King Abdulaziz standing with his men in the Basra desert, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The image reflects his early political and diplomatic engagement in the region, as he sought to strengthen ties with neighboring areas and engage with the wider Arab and international community, SPA added.

The photograph forms part of a wider collection documented by Bell, which records key developments and transformations across the Arabian Peninsula during the early 20th century.

The Basra visit holds particular significance in King Abdulaziz’s journey as a unifying leader. 

Rather than crossing borders in pursuit of power, the visit reflected an approach focused on stability, cooperation and long-term regional harmony, laying the groundwork for a leadership style defined by pragmatism and openness, SPA said.