Saudi Arabia News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet US officials in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in a crucial effort to end the ongoing war with Russia. This meeting follows Zelensky's challenging visit to the White House last month, which concluded without significant agreement. Zelensky aims to engage in "constructive dialogue," emphasizing the need for Ukraine's interests to be adequately represented during negotiations. The talks in Jeddah, which will also include discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, are viewed as vital for establishing a framework for a peace agreement and a potential ceasefire. US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff noted that this dialogue aims to bring both peace closer and ensure continued support for Ukraine. This comes amid reports of the US suspending military aid to Kyiv in a bid to push for negotiations with Moscow. Zelensky’s negotiating team includes key ministers from his administration, as ongoing tensions and the impact of sanctions on Russia remain at the forefront of discussions.

Witnesses have accused Saudi border forces of using indiscriminate force against Ethiopian migrants attempting to cross from Yemen, with reports indicating that hundreds have been killed between 2019 and 2024. A report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) details horrific accounts, including migrants facing machine gun fire and witnessing bodies along perilous routes. One Eritrean man recounted losing a leg to gunfire and seeing three others die during his crossing attempt in 2022. HRW's August 2023 report outlines a "widespread and systematic" pattern of violence by Saudi forces, suggesting the potential for crimes against humanity. Testimonies revealed instances of sexual assault by border guards, as well as shocking accounts where guards allegedly forced migrants to choose bodily targets before being shot. The increased number of Ethiopian migrants, who surged by 32% to nearly 97,000 in 2023, reflects the dire conditions stemming from civil unrest, poverty, and climate crises in their home country. Despite these troubling reports, the Saudi government has yet to provide an official response regarding the accusations.

In a significant development, the United States and Russia held their first face-to-face talks regarding Ukraine since the onset of conflict nearly three years ago. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met in Riyadh for over five hours on February 18, 2025, initiating discussions aimed at establishing a framework for future cooperation, as stated by the U.S. State Department. Despite this seemingly positive engagement, Russian officials expressed skepticism about immediate rapprochement. Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov remarked, “It is still difficult to talk about rapprochement,” indicating a cautious stance regarding the negotiations. However, both sides reportedly agreed to consider each other's interests and will establish a new consultation mechanism to improve bilateral relations disrupted by recent expulsions of diplomats. Notably absent from the discussions were representatives from Kyiv and the European Union, a situation underscored by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Glushko's dismissal of any European presence in future talks. The meeting was moderated by Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

World leaders have convened in Munich for Europe's annual security conference, with discussions heavily focused on US President Donald Trump's call for resolutions to conflicts, particularly in Ukraine. According to reports, this has led to initial consultations between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a strategic shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are positioning themselves as key players in mediating international conflicts, reflecting an erosion of traditional US dominance in the region. Analysts note that this shift stems from a desire for increased multipolarity amid changing global power dynamics. Countries like Qatar are also asserting their influence, highlighted by Doha's role in facilitating the Taliban's negotiations with the US. Furthermore, reports suggest Saudi Arabia is open to hosting dialogues regarding Iran's nuclear program, indicating a broader ambition to establish itself as a central mediator in regional conflicts. This evolving landscape underscores an increasingly competitive geopolitical environment in the Middle East.

In a significant diplomatic move, Saudi Arabia has initiated talks aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine, inviting representatives from the United States and Russia while sidelining European nations and Ukraine. According to Thomas Mayer of DER STANDARD, the negotiations began in Riyadh, marking a notable shift in the geopolitical landscape. The choice of Riyadh as the venue underscores Saudi Arabia's growing influence in international diplomacy, as it seeks to position itself as a mediator in global conflicts. The talks, which have drawn attention for their exclusivity, signal a departure from traditional negotiation hubs such as Helsinki, Geneva, or Vienna. While the immediate prospects for achieving a sustainable peace remain uncertain, the dynamics of the meeting could reshape alliances and diplomatic relations moving forward. Officials stated that the European nations, which have been significant contributors to the conflict resolution efforts, may join at a later stage, sparking concerns about their role in shaping the end of hostilities. The outcome of these discussions could set a precedent for future international negotiations.

In a significant diplomatic meeting held in Saudi Arabia, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine on February 18, 2025. The talks took place without representatives from Ukraine or the European Union, leading to heightened concerns about transparency and potential agreements, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He emphasized that Ukraine will not recognize any agreements made without its involvement. The meeting set the stage for a potential face-to-face encounter between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. U.S. officials, including National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, attended with the intention of exploring avenues towards a peaceful resolution. However, Rubio warned that resolving the complex conflict would require more than just one meeting. French President Emmanuel Macron held an emergency gathering of European leaders in response to the talks, aiming to unify a stance on Ukraine’s future. Lavrov dismissed European participation in the negotiations, expressing skepticism about their intentions, while also hinting at expectations for territorial concessions from Ukraine.

In a significant diplomatic move, top diplomats from Russia and the United States are scheduled to meet in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine, a meeting that marks the first of its kind since the conflict began in February 2022. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and President Vladimir Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov will engage with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, among others. However, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has not been invited, raising alarm among European leaders, according to reports. Zelensky is planning to visit Saudi Arabia shortly after the Russia-US meeting. He has indicated that Kyiv "cannot recognise any agreements" made about them without their involvement, as stated by his spokesperson, Sergiy Nykyforov. The Kremlin has characterized the forthcoming discussions as an effort to mend US-Russia relations, which have deteriorated significantly due to the ongoing conflict. In response to Washington's shift in policy towards Moscow, European leaders convened in Paris to address their concerns, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressing a readiness to contribute military support if necessary.

Saudi Arabia has expressed willingness to mediate between the Trump administration and Iran regarding a new nuclear agreement, according to CNN. The kingdom's interest arises from concerns that Iran may accelerate its pursuit of nuclear weapons now that its regional proxies have been weakened, diminishing deterrents against Israeli actions. Sources indicate that Riyadh aims to leverage its close relationship with President Donald Trump to facilitate diplomatic discussions with Iran. Although it is unclear if Saudi Arabia has formally proposed its mediation, this initiative highlights the kingdom's desire to enhance its relations with Iran and secure a role in future negotiations. Despite Trump's expressed interest in entering talks, the Iranian response remains ambiguous; Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has previously labeled discussions with the United States as "not smart." This complex backdrop underscores the geopolitical stakes involved as Saudi Arabia and Qatar both rush to participate in what could be critical negotiations concerning regional stability and nuclear proliferation.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to meet in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to negotiate an end to the ongoing Ukraine war, according to an announcement made after Trump's recent phone conversation with Putin. This meeting highlights Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's rising international influence, as he has re-established relations with both the U.S. and Russia despite being previously ostracized following the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. The meeting in Saudi Arabia represents a neutral grounding, allowing both leaders to avoid taking sides in the conflict. The Crown Prince, who has avoided making a definitive stance in the Ukraine war, previously facilitated a prisoner exchange involving over 200 Ukrainian captives in 2022, demonstrating Saudi Arabia's growing role as a mediator. While Trump and bin Salman have expressed interest in normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, they face challenges, especially concerning Trump's controversial proposal to relocate Palestinians in Gaza. Nevertheless, the meeting's agenda may extend beyond Ukraine, potentially addressing broader stability in the Middle East.

In a notable shift for Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabia has decided to prohibit children from accompanying pilgrims to the holy site due to safety concerns linked to severe overcrowding, as announced by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on February 10, 2025. The ministry emphasized that the ban aims to enhance the welfare of children during the pilgrimage, which is notorious for its vast crowds. Priority will also be granted to first-time pilgrims this year. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has modified its visa policy affecting individuals from 14 nations, including India, who will now only be eligible for single-entry visas instead of multiple-entry ones. This policy change, effective February 1, aims to reduce unauthorized entries for the pilgrimage, which contribute to overcrowding at pilgrimage sites. The affected countries include Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen. Registration for Hajj 2025 has commenced, with pilgrims encouraged to use the Nusuk app to select their Hajj packages and companions.

In a significant policy shift, Saudi Arabia has announced that children will no longer be permitted to accompany pilgrims for Hajj 2025 due to safety concerns over extreme overcrowding. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated that the decision aims to protect the well-being of children amidst the annual surge of devotees, emphasizing the potential risks associated with the pilgrimage's high density. Additionally, the Saudi government will prioritize first-time pilgrims for this year's Hajj. Registration has already begun, with Saudi citizens and residents able to sign up through the Nusuk app or the official online portal. The ministry urged local pilgrims to prepare adequately before Hajj package sales commence. Moreover, changes to visa regulations have been implemented, limiting individuals from 14 countries—including India and Indonesia—to single-entry visas, effective February 1. The move aims to prevent unauthorized pilgrimages that contribute to overcrowding at holy sites, as many previously entered on multiple-entry visas without registering for Hajj. According to the ministry, this measure will help manage the volume of pilgrims more effectively during the Hajj season.

In a significant move for Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabia has banned children from participating in the pilgrimage due to concerns over extreme overcrowding. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated that the decision aims to ensure the safety and well-being of children, highlighting the potential risks associated with large crowds. According to the ministry, priority will also be given to first-time pilgrims in this year's registration process. The registration for Hajj 2025 has commenced, with Saudi citizens and residents able to enroll through the Nusuk app or the official online portal. The ministry urged applicants to verify their information and register any companions traveling with them, emphasizing the importance of preparedness. Additionally, as part of its new visa policy effective February 1, individuals from 14 nations, including India, will only be eligible for single-entry visas. This change aims to combat unauthorized pilgrimages that contribute to overcrowding at pilgrimage sites. Countries affected include Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, and others.

Salma Al-Shehab, a 36-year-old PhD student from Leeds University, has been released from prison in Saudi Arabia after facing a 34-year sentence for tweeting in support of women’s rights. Al-Shehab was detained during a family holiday in January 2021, just days before returning to the UK. According to Lina al-Hathloul, head of monitoring and advocacy at rights group ALQST, her release comes as a relief as Al-Shehab had not seen her children during her four-year incarceration. Initially sentenced to three years, Al-Shehab's punishment was increased to 34 years after the prosecution introduced additional charges related to her social media activity, including alleged complicity in “public unrest” for following and retweeting activists. Amnesty International condemned her jailing as unjust and politically motivated, noting that her only "crime" was expressing support for women’s rights. While activists celebrate her release, they emphasize the need to lift her ongoing travel ban to allow her to return to the UK and continue her academic pursuits. The Saudi government has not officially acknowledged her release.

In a significant policy change, Saudi Arabia has announced that children will be prohibited from participating in the Hajj pilgrimage in 2025 due to safety concerns related to severe overcrowding. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that this decision aims to protect children from potential hazards during this major religious event, where massive crowds gather each year. "This step has been taken to ensure the safety and well-being of children," officials stated. Additionally, the ministry has declared that first-time pilgrims will receive priority registration. The registration for this year's Hajj has already commenced, allowing Saudi citizens and residents to apply via the Nusuk app or official online portal. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has modified its visa policy, effective February 1, 2025, restricting applicants from 14 countries, including India, to single-entry visas. This measure targets the rise of individuals entering the country without proper authorization during the Hajj, contributing to overcrowding. The affected nations also include Algeria, Egypt, and Pakistan, among others, as authorities seek to enhance regulation of the pilgrimage process.

Salma al-Shehab, a Saudi student at Leeds University, has been released after her original 34-year prison sentence for social media activity was significantly reduced. Al-Shehab was arrested during a family holiday in Saudi Arabia on January 15, 2021, just days before returning to the UK. She was convicted in 2022 for using Twitter to allegedly cause public unrest and destabilize national security, according to reports from rights group ALQST. In January 2025, ALQST announced that her sentence had been reduced to four years, with an additional four years suspended. The group emphasized that al-Shehab should now be granted her full freedom, including the right to travel to continue her studies. Saudi Arabia has not officially commented on her release or the modification of her sentence, nor did Saudi officials respond promptly to inquiries from The Associated Press. Al-Shehab is a member of the Shia Muslim minority in Saudi Arabia, which has faced systemic discrimination in the predominantly Sunni kingdom.

In a significant statement, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman declared on February 5, 2025, that the kingdom will not normalize relations with Israel until a Palestinian state is established. During the opening session of the Shura Council, he reiterated Saudi Arabia's condemnation of Israeli actions against Palestinians, emphasizing the importance of achieving an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Crown Prince bin Salman stated, “We renew the kingdom’s rejection and strong condemnation of the crimes of the Israeli occupation authority against the Palestinian people," outlining Saudi Arabia's ongoing commitment to Palestinian sovereignty. This pronouncement counters previous normalization agreements brokered by the United States under President Donald Trump, which saw Israel establish ties with Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. Despite efforts by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to negotiate a normalization deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel, the Crown Prince's remarks indicate a steadfast position that prioritizes Palestinian statehood as a prerequisite for diplomatic relations.

On February 5, 2025, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its position against normalizing relations with Israel unless a Palestinian state is established. This statement followed remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that Saudi Arabia had not made the two-state solution a prerequisite for peace. Saudi officials stressed their unwavering support for a Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders, a key point in the ongoing discourse regarding Middle Eastern peace efforts. Trump's announcement about the anticipated addition of more countries to the Abraham Accords comes amid heightened tensions and conflicting narratives concerning regional alliances. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also echoed a commitment to pursuing peace with Saudi Arabia, indicating an evolving diplomatic landscape in the region. Experts note that despite declarations of intentions, significant obstacles remain concerning the intricacies of Palestinian statehood and broader Arab-Israeli relations. These remarks underscore the complexities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, highlighting the centrality of Palestinian statehood in discussions of international relations with Israel.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia announced on February 5, 2025, that the kingdom will not normalize relations with Israel until a Palestinian state is established. This statement marks a significant setback for U.S. efforts to broker such a deal. During the opening session of the advisory Shura Council, bin Salman emphasized the kingdom's ongoing commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights, denouncing Israeli actions as "crimes of the Israeli occupation authority" against the Palestinian people. The Crown Prince reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia's objective is to achieve an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. The normalization of relations dealt a transformative shift in Middle Eastern diplomacy, beginning in 2020 with agreements brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump between Israel, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. In recent discussions, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed hope for a normalization deal with Saudi Arabia, contingent upon a ceasefire in Gaza. However, bin Salman's remarks reiterate the Kingdom's long-standing position on Palestinian statehood as a condition for further diplomatic engagement.

On February 5, 2025, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its long-standing position that normalization of relations with Israel is contingent upon the establishment of a Palestinian state. This assertion followed remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who implied that Riyadh was no longer prioritizing the two-state solution. According to Saudi officials, any peace agreement must adhere to the parameters established prior to the 1967 borders. In contrast, Trump expressed optimism that numerous countries would soon join the Abraham Accords, suggesting potential progress toward peace with Saudi Arabia. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also echoed a commitment to work towards peace with the Kingdom. The discourse surrounding Israel-Saudi relations remains complex, particularly as external influences, including U.S. policy, continue to shape the diplomatic landscape. These statements come during heightened expectations for potential agreements in the Middle East, yet underline the ongoing challenges related to Palestinian statehood. The situation remains fluid as negotiations evolve and regional dynamics shift.

Saudi Arabia has firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's proposal to "take over" the Gaza Strip, emphasizing that the establishment of a Palestinian state is a prerequisite for any normalization of relations with Israel. According to a statement from the Saudi foreign ministry on Wednesday, the kingdom's position regarding Palestinian rights is "not negotiable," directly contradicting Trump's assertion that Saudi Arabia sought no Palestinian homeland in a recent press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reaffirmed this stance clearly, dismissing any discussions regarding the displacement of Palestinians as unacceptable amid ongoing violence in Gaza. As the conflict rages, fears have grown among Palestinians of experiencing another "Nakba," reminiscent of their historical displacement during the formation of Israel. This diplomatic conflict underscores the challenges facing U.S. efforts to broker a normalization deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel, particularly in light of recent events in Gaza, which have fostered deep anger throughout the Arab world.

Saudi Arabian officials have stated they are "not in a rush" to establish normalized relations with Israel, highlighting the importance of a two-state solution as a prerequisite for any formal ties. This statement comes as former U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for the inclusion of Saudi Arabia in the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab nations. In ongoing efforts to mediate the situation, Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to visit both Saudi Arabia and Israel to discuss a potential ceasefire deal and normalization talks. Trump aims to strengthen U.S.-Saudi ties, proposing an investment of $1 trillion from Saudi Arabia, alongside calls for lower oil prices. Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan emphasized the longstanding strategic relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, asserting that mutual benefits and cooperation will persist under Trump's leadership.

Saudi Arabian officials have stated they are not in a hurry to normalize relations with Israel, highlighting that any future ties are contingent upon establishing a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution. This announcement comes amid former U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to incorporate Saudi Arabia into the Abraham Accords, a series of agreements aimed at promoting peace in the Middle East. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, is scheduled to visit both Saudi Arabia and Israel, focusing on negotiations for a ceasefire agreement and discussions regarding normalization. Trump is also advocating for significant Saudi investment in the U.S., with a targeted amount of $1 trillion, alongside initiatives to lower oil prices. Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan emphasized the importance of longstanding strategic relations between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, noting the mutual benefits of continued cooperation under Trump’s influence.

Saad Almadi, a 74-year-old American-Saudi dual citizen, is reportedly facing coercion from Saudi authorities to renounce his U.S. citizenship after being imprisoned for social media posts critical of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Following his release from a Saudi prison in March 2023, Almadi received an exit ban preventing him from returning to his home in Florida. His son, Ibrahim Almadi, claims that Saudi officials threatened his father with further restrictions if he did not comply with the demands to give up his American citizenship. According to a U.S.-based human rights group, Almadi is among several dual nationals expressing similar concerns regarding coercive practices by the Saudi government aimed at silencing dissent. Ibrahim has criticized the Biden administration's response to his father's situation, stating that if this were a matter involving countries like Russia or Iran, the U.S. would have acted more decisively. The Saudi government, which does not recognize dual citizenship, has maintained that its actions are part of broader efforts to combat corruption and security threats. U.S. officials have confirmed that Almadi remains a U.S. citizen and are working to provide him with consular support. Advocacy groups are calling for greater U.S. intervention to assist Almadi and other detained or restricted American citizens in Saudi Arabia.

Archaeologists have uncovered fossilized human footprints in northern Saudi Arabia that are estimated to be around 115,000 years old. This remarkable find was made at a prehistoric lakebed site, known as "the trace," located in the Nefud Desert. The footprints were discovered among hundreds of animal prints, suggesting the area was a significant site for prehistoric travel, likely used as a freshwater source during dry periods. The findings indicate that seven hominin footprints belong to early Homo sapiens, as evidence suggests they predated Neanderthal presence in the region. The lakebed conditions were ideal for preserving these ancient prints, which could provide crucial insights into human migration patterns during climate change. Researchers highlighted that the lack of hunting evidence, such as tool marks on animal bones, implies these early humans may have been transient visitors, primarily seeking potable water rather than engaging in extensive hunting activities. The discovery emphasizes the importance of the Alathar lakeshore as a historic corridor for both humans and large animals in a time before the onset of the last ice age. This study not only sheds light on the lifestyle of these ancient populations but also enhances our understanding of human adaptability in changing environments.

Saudi Arabia has executed six Iranian nationals convicted of drug trafficking, according to the official Saudi Press Agency. The executions took place in Dammam, on the kingdom's eastern coast, in response to charges of "clandestinely introducing hashish" into the country. The Ministry of Interior reported the executions without disclosing the specific dates. In 2024, Saudi authorities recorded 117 executions related to drug trafficking, as part of a broader anti-drug campaign initiated in previous years. This marks a continuation of a crackdown that resumed after a moratorium on death penalties for drug offenses was lifted two years ago. Despite the heightened enforcement, Saudi Arabia's approach to capital punishment faces significant criticism from human rights organizations. Amnesty International highlighted that Saudi Arabia conducted the world's third-highest number of executions in 2023, trailing only China and Iran. The Saudi government maintains that the death penalty is a necessary measure to preserve public order. In a broader context of regional tensions, diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran were reinstated in March 2023 following a period of severed ties that began in 2016 over the execution of a prominent Shiite cleric.