S

Saudi Gazette

August 2026

Saudi Arabia to host secretariat of Makkah Joint Defense Agreement

Khalid Al-Faisalsaudi royal and politician 1939
We affirmed our commitment to activating the Makkah Joint Defense Agreement pathways in a way that strengthens integration and advances security and stability,
Today, the three countries agreed to take further steps to institutionalize their cooperation under the Makkah Agreement in a manner that strengthens their solidarity, ensures the credibility and effectiveness of collective deterrence and defense, and contributes to regional and cooperative security efforts aimed at achieving a just, comprehensive and lasting peace,

Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to activating Makkah Joint Defense Agreement

Hakan Fidanturkish Foreign Minister
With this agreement, the process of testing a new security and cooperation architecture in our region has begun,
Khalid Al-Faisalsaudi royal and politician 1939
I was pleased to lead the Kingdom’s delegation in the first meeting of the Strategic Political and Defense Committee,
We are currently trying to accomplish the difficult part,
The alliance was established with the aim of expanding. But at the outset, its foundations need to be laid very well, and its institutionalization also needs to be carried out very well,

Iran attacks Jordan, UAE after US bombs Larak Island

In a statement on X on Monday, the UAE’s Ministry of Defense described the reports as “false” and “urged the public to rely on official sources for information and to refrain from circulating rumours or inaccurate information”

Anwar Gargashemirati politician and Minister of State of Foreign Affairs
Political solutions must begin with de-escalation and restoring normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz,

Russian strikes destroy 12 million Ukraine textbooks ahead of new school term

Volodymyr Zelenskyypresident
Unesco firmly condemns all attacks against cultural property protected under international law,
The enemy is trying to burn out our education and culture,
Volodymyr Zelenskyypresident
Four companies have developed the relevant interceptor drones, and one company has the most successful technology,

Dolly Parton laid to rest alongside husband in Nashville in private funeral

Because she couldn’t have kids of her own, she always made us feel like we were hers. She loved us that way, and I’ll forever be grateful for that,
I feel incredibly lucky that I got to call her my granny. Thank you for always believing in me, loving me, and making me feel like I could do anything. I love you, Granny. Always,
Jada Starniece
I am walking around in a fog of sadness, like all of you have. “... I do not take this honor lightly. I will stand on that stage tonight, the stage she loved so much, and share my song I wrote for her and for my whole family.”
Dolly Parton's legacy is one of love, kindness, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place."... In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library."
Lainey Mae Partonniece
She didn’t just tell me to chase my dreams, she helped me get there,
It still doesn’t feel real that she’s gone. I’m going to miss her voice, her laugh, her hugs, and just knowing she was there. I’m even going to miss those 4 AM calls, and I’d give anything to see her name pop up on my phone again,
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library."

South Korean court sentences Unification Church leader to 2 years in prison

She arrived Monday for sentencing — at which prosecutors had sought a 13-year term — in a wheelchair, wearing hospital pyjamas and a surgical mask, surrounded by aides

We have confirmed that she has been sentenced to two years,
Given that she stands at the apex of the Unification Church, and considering her position and role … a prison sentence is unavoidable,
We find it impossible to accept the court's judgment that President Han Hak-ja directed the acts in question or recognised and approved their illegal purpose,
Whether she will seek a further suspension remains a matter for discussion among her attorneys in consideration of her health conditions,

Iran and US trade fire in new flare-up, killing at least two

Scott Bessenttreasury Secretary
We’re starting with the banks, and we’re telling the banks it’s not okay to have Iranian money and to aid the regime,
Donald Trumppresident
Kharg Island being blown to smithereens!!! President DJT,
Scott Bessenttreasury Secretary
You’re going to see a lot more of these every week,

Syria and Libya start 'a new chapter' in relations with Tripoli embassy reopening

Asaad al-Shaibania Syrian diplomat and politician who is currently serving as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in the Syrian transitional government since 21 December 2024 following the fall of the Assad regime
This embassy will handle the administrative follow-up for Syrians who took refuge in Libya during the years of war, at a time when there was no longer any diplomatic representation, since Tripoli had broken off relations with the former regime,
Asaad al-Shaibania Syrian diplomat and politician who is currently serving as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in the Syrian transitional government since 21 December 2024 following the fall of the Assad regime
Today, this embassy returns to reaffirm the importance and value of the Syrian-Libyan relationship,

Alswaha: Saudi Arabia will introduce Freedom of Information Law soon

Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in data centers, which constitute its primary market in artificial intelligence, accounting for up to 60 percent of its total investments. Approximately 60 percent of technological investments are directed toward these centers, and more than 80 square kilometers have been allocated for them,
The National Technology Development Program has supported more than 1,500 entrepreneurs and 5,000 companies, including nine billion-riyal companies,

Saudi Arabia condemns attacks in Niger’s capital

In a statement, the ministry affirmed the Kingdom's solidarity with the government and people of Niger against any attempt to undermine its security and stability

Saudi Arabia affirms its support for all efforts that contribute to preserving the security and sovereignty of the Republic of Niger and protecting its resources from the meddling of rebel groups,

Saudi Arabia agrees to raise Pakistani agricultural and food exports to $3 billion

The Pakistani side was headed by Minister of State for Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain and included senior government officials and representatives of the private sector in Pakistan