Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)
2017 Saudi Arabia Special Weapons News
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- Saudi Arabia pressing billionaire prince to fork out $6 billion: Report Press TV 23 Dec 2017 -- Saudi Arabian authorities are reportedly pressuring a billionaire prince whom they have detained as part of a purge to pay up a whopping USD six billion to secure his release.
- Russia to finalize Saudi S-400 deal by year-end Press TV 22 Dec 2017 -- Russia says it is working with Saudi Arabia to finalize a deal to sell advanced S-400 missile systems to the oil-rich kingdom.
- Saudi FM Reveals Riyadh Has 'Roadmap' for 'Normal' Ties With Israel Sputnik 17 Dec 2017 -- Saudi Arabia and Israel have no official ties, despite hints by several Israeli top officials at "secret contacts" with Arab countries.
- Saudi military ineffective force despite colossal budget: Report Press TV 16 Dec 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's military has proved to be an ineffective force despite the kingdom's huge imports of state-of-the-art weapons from world powers, a report says.
- Saudi kingdom has plan to establish ties with Israel, Jubeir says Press TV 15 Dec 2017 -- Amid widespread reports of behind-the-scenes cooperation between Riyadh and Tel Aviv, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir says the kingdom has a "roadmap" to establish full diplomatic ties with the Tel Aviv regime.
- Saudis comprise biggest number of terrorists arrested in Iraq: Report Press TV 12 Dec 2017 -- Saudi nationals reportedly comprise the biggest number of the foreign terrorists arrested during Iraqi army operations against the Takfiri Daesh terror group in the northern and western parts of the country.
- Tillerson Urges Saudi Arabia to Curb Military Role in Yemen VOA 08 Dec 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson urged Saudi Arabia Friday to curb its military intervention in Yemen, a country in the throes of a humanitarian crisis triggered by a two-year civil war.
- Tillerson warns Saudi about its actions in Mideast Press TV 08 Dec 2017 -- US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has warned Saudi Arabia about "the consequences" of its actions in the Middle East.
- Statement from the Royal Court SPA 07 Dec 2017 -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia followed, with great disappointment, the announcement made by the President of the United States Donald Trump, recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and relocating the United States' embassy to Jerusalem.
- 'Detained Saudi princes, tycoons agree to cash settlements' Press TV 06 Dec 2017 -- The majority of high-profile figures recently detained in Saudi Arabia's mass purge of royals and businessmen have agreed to monetary settlements in exchange for their freedom, the Saudi attorney general says.
- UAE says forming new bloc with Saudi Arabia separate from GCC Press TV 05 Dec 2017 -- The UAE and Saudi Arabia are forming a new all-out alliance as the existing crisis in the [Persian] Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has cast doubt over the future of the Arab bloc.
- CIA chief: Saudi, Israel may set up 'joint military headquarters' Press TV 04 Dec 2017 -- CIA Director Mike Pompeo says Saudi Arabia is working directly with Israel on confronting "challenges" in the Middle East, suggesting that the two sides could go as far as setting up "a joint military headquarters."
- 'Joint Military HQ' Would Help Israel, Saudi Arabia Fight Terrorism - CIA Head Sputnik 04 Dec 2017 -- Strained relations with Iran and the common threat of terrorism are the factors building a bridge between Saudi Arabia and Israel, according to Mike Pompeo.
- Saudi Arabia and Jordan start Military Exercise "Sahab 2" SPA 03 Dec 2017 -- Saudi Arabian Armed Forces and the Jordanian Armed Forces have started in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today the military exercise "Sahab 2".
- Saudi Arabia Intercepts Ballistic Missile Fired From Yemen, State Media Say RFE/RL 30 Nov 2017 -- Saudi state media report that Saudi Arabia's air force has intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen toward the kingdom.
- Saudi Royal Air Force intercepts, destroys ballistic missile fired at Kingdom's territory SPA 30 Nov 2017 -- The official spokesman of coalition forces "Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen" Colonel Turki Al-Malki, said that at 2020 pm on Thursday, the Saudi Royal Air Force (RAF) spotted the launch of a ballistic missile from within Yemeni territory towards the Kingdom's territory.
- Turkey's Love Affair with Saudi Arabia On the Rocks VOA 29 Nov 2017 -- A deal signed by Turkish and Iranian ministers Sunday to enhance efforts to break Saudi Arabian trade sanctions against Qatar, is only the latest move by Ankara against Riyadh. The two once close allies are increasingly finding themselves on opposing sides in the region.
- Djibouti hails Saudi military presence in African country as way to boost bilateral ties Press TV 28 Nov 2017 -- Djibouti's Defense Minister Ali Bahdon has welcomed the establishment of a Saudi military base on the soil of the African country, saying Djibouti-Riyadh relations are not confined to military cooperation.
- Sheikhs for Djibouti: Nation's Defense Minister Welcomes Saudi Military Base Sputnik 28 Nov 2017 -- Djibouti hosts a number of foreign military and naval facilities, including those belonging to China, Japan, Italy, France and the United States.
- Amnesty International urges Greece to scrap Saudi arms sale amid war on Yemen Press TV 27 Nov 2017 -- Amnesty International has demanded that Greece scrap a controversial arms sale to Saudi Arabia as the Riyadh regime has been leading a brutal military campaign against Yemen for more than two years.
- Iran Claims U.S. Responsible For 'Atrocities' Via Support for Saudi Arabia RFE/RL 26 Nov 2017 -- Iran has accused the United States of being responsible for "atrocities" in Yemen through its support for Saudi Arabia, which has backed the Yemeni government in the country's three-year civil war.
- Saudi Arabia Launches Islamic Counterterrorism Summit RFE/RL 26 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's crown prince has opened the first high-level meeting of a kingdom-led alliance of Muslim nations against terrorism, pledging that extremists will no longer "tarnish our beautiful religion."
- Saudi Crown Prince Vows to 'Wipe Terrorists Out From the Face of Earth' Sputnik 26 Nov 2017 -- The summit follows the Saudi crown prince's statement in favor of the country returning to "moderate Islam," which came amid a number of steps aimed at expanding women's rights.
- Saudis Launch Counterterror Coalition VOA 26 Nov 2017 -- A Saudi-led Muslim military coalition, commanded by a former Pakistan army chief, was officially launched Sunday in Riyadh where defense ministers of the participating nations met for the inaugural meeting.
- UK secretly training Saudi troops for Yemen war: Report Press TV 26 Nov 2017 -- The British Army is secretly training Saudi Arabian soldiers to fight in Yemen, where more than 12,000 people have been killed since the onset of the Saudi war in March 2015, according to a report.
- Mistakenly Posted Photos Allegedly Expose UK Training Saudi Forces in Yemen War Sputnik 26 Nov 2017 -- According to The Daily Mail, the secret training program is allegedly aimed at teaching so-called "irregular warfare" combat skills to Saudi forces and involves some 50 UK military personnel.
- Saudis Set to Launch Counterterror Coalition Commanded by Ex-Pakistan General Sharif VOA 25 Nov 2017 -- A Saudi-led Muslim military coalition, commanded by a celebrated former Pakistan army chief, will be officially launched on Sunday when Riyadh hosts defense ministers of the participating nations at its inaugural meeting.
- Saudi Arabia shelling out $7bn more for US munitions amid escalating war against Yemen Press TV 23 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has struck a $7 billion deal with American arms manufactures for precision-guided munitions, sources say, a sign that the kingdom and its allies are adamant in pushing ahead with a years-long war on Yemen despite international pressure.
- Cabinet Minister Indicates Israel Has Had Secret Contacts With Saudis Over Iran Concerns RFE/RL 20 Nov 2017 -- An Israeli cabinet minister has indicated that Israel has had secret contacts with Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries over their mutual concerns about Iran, an apparent first acknowledgment by a senior official about covert dealings.
- Air War Missile Center 2017 Exercises Wrap up SPA 16 Nov 2017 -- The Joint Exercises (Air War Missile Center 2017) were concluded, at Al-Dhafra Air Base, in Abu Dhabi, with participation of several brotherly and friendly countries.
- Saudi Arabia blackmailing detained princes to fill state coffers: Report Press TV 16 Nov 2017 -- A new report says Saudi Arabia has offered deals to detained princes and businessmen to fill depleted state coffers.
- Al-Yarmouk 2 military drill between Saudi and Jordanian land forces wraps up SPA 15 Nov 2017 -- Al-Yarmouk 2 joint military drill between Saudi and Jordanian land forces came to an end today in the presence of the commander of the northern region major general Fahd bin Abdullah Al-Mitair and a number of senior officers.
- Saudi Arabia requests urgent Arab League meeting amid regional tensions Press TV 12 Nov 2017 -- The Arab League is set to hold an extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers in Cairo next week at the request of Saudi Arabia amid tensions with Iran and Qatar.
- Riyadh Calls for Emergency Arab League Meeting Over 'Iran's Interference' Sputnik 12 Nov 2017 -- The tensions in the Middle East have exacerbated recently, as the Saudi forces intercepted a missile fired from Yemen by Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
- Saudi Officials Deny Reports of King's Abdication Plan VOA 12 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has denied reports that King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is planning to relinquish the throne in favor of his son, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman.
- Lebanon president voices concern over Hariri situation in Saudi Arabia Press TV 10 Nov 2017 -- Lebanese President Michel Aoun has told foreign diplomats of his concerns over the situation of Saad Hariri, who is said to be held in Saudi Arabia after he announced his resignation in a live broadcast from the kingdom.
- US Warns Against Using Lebanon as Venue for Proxy Conflicts - Tillerson Sputnik 10 Nov 2017 -- The US secretary of state has shed light on Washington's stance toward the situation in Lebanon following the sudden resignation of Prime Minister Hariri, who is believed to be in Saudi Arabia.
- UN chief sounds alarm about 'devastating consequences' of Saudi-Lebanon conflict Press TV 10 Nov 2017 -- United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has voiced serious concern about escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon, warning of "devastating consequences" if a war breaks out between the two countries.
- Hezbollah Leader Says Saudi Arabia Wants to Impose New PM on Lebanese People Sputnik 10 Nov 2017 -- Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has commented on former Lebanese prime minister's shock resignation.
- Senior Saudi figures beaten, tortured in custody: Report Press TV 10 Nov 2017 -- A number of high-profile figures recently detained in Saudi Arabia have reportedly sustained serious injuries under beatings and torture amid an ongoing purge by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
- Official Source at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Saudi nationals visiting or residing in Lebanon are asked to leave the country as soon as possible SPA 09 Nov 2017 -- Due to the situations in the Republic of Lebanon, the official source at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Saudi nationals visiting or residing in Lebanon are asked to leave the country as soon as possible.
- Hezbollah MPs urge Riyadh to stop meddling in Lebanon Press TV 09 Nov 2017 -- The parliamentary bloc of Hezbollah has called on Saudi Arabia to stop interfering in Lebanon's domestic affairs after Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his resignation while on a trip to Riyadh.
- Macron In Saudi Arabia Amid Regional Tensions RFE/RL 09 Nov 2017 -- French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Saudi Arabia late on November 9 for an unscheduled visit at a time of heightened tensions between Riyadh and its regional rival Tehran.
- EU Ready To Start Talks On 'Ambitious' Bilateral Agreement With Kyrgyzstan RFE/RL 09 Nov 2017 -- During a visit to Bishkek, Europe Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini has expressed the bloc's readiness to start negotiations on a new bilateral agreement between the EU and Kyrgyzstan.
- Statement by the Attorney General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on investigations by the Supreme Anti-corruption Committee SPA 09 Nov 2017 -- Sheikh Saud Al Mojeb, Attorney General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and member of the supreme anti-corruption committee formed by Royal Order on Saturday November 4, issued the following statement on Thursday November 9th:
- Over 200 Detained on Corruption Charges in Saudi Arabia - Attorney General Sputnik 09 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabian authorities have announced the first results of its massive anti-corruption campaign.
- Saudi King Will Reportedly Transfer Power to His Son in Coming Days Sputnik 09 Nov 2017 -- Saudi King Salman, 81, may abdicate from the throne in favor of his 32-year-old son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Arab media has reported in the light of seismic events that rocked the kingdom over the weekend.
- Saudi Anti-Graft Campaign Reveals At Least $100 Billion Stolen Sputnik 09 Nov 2017 -- As many as 208 people have been called in for questioning as part of an ongoing crackdown on corruption in Saudi Arabia.
- Saudi airstrikes, continued blockade show Riyadh's failure, frustration in Yemen: Iran Press TV 08 Nov 2017 -- Iran has condemned a recent aerial attack by Saudi fighter jets on residential areas in the Yemeni province of Hajjah, saying intensified airstrikes by Riyadh indicate the regime's failure to achieve its goals in the impoverished country.
- Saudi Arabia blocks over 1,200 bank accounts amid crackdown Press TV 08 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has blocked the bank accounts of over 1,200 individuals and companies as part of the kingdom's purported anti-graft campaign which is considered the biggest purge of the country's elite in the kingdom's modern history.
- Saudi Arabia Steps Up Military Operation in Yemen and Media Campaign Against Iran VOA 08 Nov 2017 -- The war of words between Iran and Saudi Arabia is escalating in the media and on the ground after the weekend launch of a ballistic missile from Yemen which hit near the airport in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. The Saudis accuse Iran of arming Yemen's Houthi rebels, who fired the missile.
- Saudi Prince Calls Iran's Alleged Supply of Missiles to Houthis 'Aggression' Sputnik 07 Nov 2017 -- With the conflict in Yemen still far from being resolved, the latest move has seen one of the warring sides lauch a missile attack targeting Saudi Arabia.
- Saudi Arabia repeats claim of Iran arming Yemen's Houthis Press TV 07 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has repeated an accusation that Iran is supplying Houthi fighters in Yemen with weapons, days after Iranian officials denied any transfer of arms to the Arab country, which has been under a Saudi-led invasion and blockade.
- Iran Denies Saudi Claim it Launched Missile from Yemen VOA 07 Nov 2017 -- Iran is denying claims from the Saudi Arabian crown prince that Iran committed a "direct military aggression" against Riyadh when Yemeni rebels launched a missile at a Saudi airport.
- Saudi Arabia threatens Iran after Yemen missile strike Press TV 06 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has ramped up threats to Iran, saying there will be a response "in the appropriate time and manner," following a missile strike from neighboring Yemen, which has been under a nonstop bombardment campaign by a Saudi-led coalition for over two and a half years.
- Saudis, Iran Trade Barbs After Huthi Ballistic-Missile Launch RFE/RL 06 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabia and Iran have exchanged accusations over the launch of a ballistic missile by Shi'ite Huthi rebels from Yemen toward the Saudi capital, with Riyadh saying the attack could be considered an "act of war" and Tehran accusing its Middle Eastern rival of war crimes.
- Saudi crackdown on high-profile figures widens Press TV 06 Nov 2017 -- Saudi authorities have detained the founder of one of the kingdom's biggest travel companies as part of an ongoing anti-corruption probe that is reportedly aimed at strengthening the crown prince's grip on power.
- Kingdom-wide Arrests in Saudi Arabia See Crown Prince Tighten His Grip VOA 06 Nov 2017 -- The writers of the television drama series "Game of Thrones" would be hard pressed to pack into one episode what happened in Saudi Arabia Saturday, which saw breathtaking arrests of scores of princes and ministers once considered untouchable.
- Saudi King, Trump Talk About Intercepted Missile VOA 05 Nov 2017 -- Saudi Arabian state media say the country's military has intercepted a ballistic missile fired from Yemen and aimed at the King Khalid International Airport northeast of Riyadh.
- Retaliatory missile launched at Riyadh airport was Borkan H2, Yemen says Press TV 05 Nov 2017 -- The Yemeni army has confirmed that it targeted Saudi Arabia's King Khalid international airport in Riyadh with a long distance Borkan H2 ballistic missile.
- Minister of Culture and Information: Fighting corruption is state's approach to promoting integrity and advancing reform SPA 05 Nov 2017 -- Minister of Culture and Information Dr. Awad bin Saleh Al-Awad said that the royal decree on fighting corruption and tracking corrupt people is the state's approach to promoting integrity and advancing the reform that the state has led under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Crown Prince.
- A Series of Anti-Graft Royal Orders Announced, related Committee led by Crown Prince Formed SPA 04 Nov 2017 -- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud issued a series of royal orders.
- Houthis Fire Ballistic Missile at King Khalid Int'l Airport in Riyadh - Reports Sputnik 04 Nov 2017 -- Saudi air defense forces said on Friday they had intercepted a ballistic missile that was fired from Yemen in the northeast of the Saudi capital, according to media reports.
- Saudi royal family forms committee, arrests princes, ministers Press TV 04 Nov 2017 -- Dozens of princes, ministers and former ministers have been detained by Saudi Arabia's Anti-Corruption Committee.
- Saudi Crown Prince Tackles Extremism on the Road to Social, Economic Reform VOA 04 Nov 2017 -- The recent flurry of social and economic reform coming out of Saudi Arabia has left some Saudis ecstatic, others more circumspect, and a few conservatives bewildered or even angry.
- Saudi Arabia plans to extract uranium for nuclear program Press TV 31 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans to extract its own uranium as part of efforts to bolster its nuclear program and attain "self-sufficiency" in the production of "nuclear fuel."
- Trump Advisor Kushner Makes Unannounced Saudi Arabia Visit - Reports Sputnik 30 Oct 2017 -- US presidential adviser Jared Kushner conducted an unannounced visit to Saudi Arabia earlier in the week, Politico reported Sunday, citing an unnamed White House official.
- In Saudi Arabia, UN envoy seeks to further initiatives to end violence in Yemen UN News 25 Oct 2017 -- A United Nations envoy has met with senior Yemeni and Saudi officials to discuss his initiatives to end fighting in Yemen, stressing that "this is at heart a political conflict so it can only be solved with political negotiations."
- UK arms sales to Saudis topped £1.1bn in first half of 2017 Press TV 25 Oct 2017 -- Britain's sales of military equipment to Saudi Arabia hit £1.1 billion in the first six months of this year, according to the latest government data.
- Remarks at the Saudi Arabia-Iraq Inaugural Coordination Council Meeting US Dept. of State 22 Oct 2017
- Remarks With Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir US Dept. of State 22 Oct 2017-
- Tillerson Promotes Closer Iraq-Saudi Ties VOA 22 Oct 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Sunday promoted improving ties between Saudi Arabia and Iraq as a way to counter Iran's growing military assertiveness in the region.
- Arms shipments to Saudis skyrocket under Trump: Report Press TV 16 Oct 2017 -- US President Donald Trump, who repeatedly condemned Saudi policies during the 2016 election campaign, has allowed more than a billion dollars worth of arms to be delivered to the Saudi kingdom, which is committing war crimes in the neighboring Yemen, a new report shows.
- 'Russia, Saudi Arabia almost finalize S-400 deal' Press TV 13 Oct 2017 -- Russia and Saudi Arabia are in talks to sign an agreement on the purchase by Riyadh of the Russian S-400 surface-to-air missile defense system.
- Saudi Ground Forces Arrive in Pakistan for Joint Military Exercise SPA 12 Oct 2017 -- Saudi ground forces arrived in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan today to participate in the joint military exercise dubbed "Al-Samsam 6" to be taken place early next week.
- Saudi Arabia, Bahrain start joint naval drills in Persian Gulf Press TV 10 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabia and Bahrain have started joint naval exercise in the Persian Gulf waters as the Manama regime has been trying for years to draw closer to Saudi authorities and receive their assistance in the heavy-handed crackdown against pro-democracy activists and opposition figures.
- Kremlin Defends Missile Deal With Saudi Arabia RFE/RL 10 Oct 2017 -- The Kremlin says an agreement to sell Russian missiles to Saudi Arabia does not pose a threat to any other country.
- Russia, Saudi Arabia Agree on S-400, Other Weapons Deliveries Sputnik 09 Oct 2017 -- Russia and Saudi Arabia have agreed on the supply of S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems, as well as a number of other weapons, including the Kalashnikov AK-103.
- U.S. approves possible 15-bln-USD sale of THAAD missiles to Saudi Arabia People's Daily 07 Oct 2017 -- The U.S. State Department has approved on Friday a possible 15-billion-U.S. dollar sale of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems to Saudi Arabia, according to a statement released by the Pentagon.
- Russia-Saudi Cooperation Limited Despite Big Energy, Military Deals VOA 07 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabian King Salman bin Abdulaziz's groundbreaking visit to Russia this week saw billions of dollars signed in investment deals in energy and defense that will deepen ties between Moscow and Riyadh, despite their confrontational past.
- Saudi Arabia - Terminal High Altitude Area Defense and Related Support, Equipment and Services DSCA 06 Oct 2017 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Saudi Arabia for Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) and related support, equipment and services for an estimated cost of $15 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
- Kremlin says Russia-Saudi military cooperation not directed at 3rd party Press TV 06 Oct 2017 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has briefed reporters about the peaceful content of recent talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia.
- Putin, Salman hold talks behind closed doors in Moscow Press TV 06 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi King Salman have held talks behind closed doors in the Russian capital of Moscow, reportedly discussing bilateral and regional issues.
- Russian submarines launch cruise missiles at Daesh positions in Dayr al-Zawr Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- Two Russian submarines have fired a barrage of Kalibr cruise missiles at positions of Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria's eastern province of Dayr al-Zawr, where the country's forces are making territorial gains against the terrorists.
- Syria will never forget Iran's sacrifices, support: Assad Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- President Bashar al-Assad says his country will never forget the sacrifices of the Islamic Republic in support of the Syrian government and nation during the hard times of war.
- Russian airstrike kills 49 Takfiri terrorists in Syria's Idlib Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- The Russian military says 49 Takfiri militants, including seven commanders, have been killed during an airstrike on terrorist positions in Syria's Idlib Province.
- OPCW Says Found Evidence of Chemical Weapons Use in Syria's Hama in March Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons said Thursday that it had found evidence of the use of sarin or sarin-related chemicals following an incident in Syria's Hama province in March.
- Russian Airstrike in Syria Leaves Al Nusra 'Emir' in Coma, 49 Terrorists Dead Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Aerospace Forces launched a surgical assault against the rebranded Al Nusra Front terrorist group, killing 49 fighters including seven leaders, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense.
- Saudi Arabia agrees to buy Russian S-400 air defense system Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has signed preliminary agreements to buy S-400 air defense systems and receive "cutting-edge technologies" from Russia as King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is on an official trip to Moscow as the first Saudi monarch to visit the European country.
- Russia, Saudi Arabia Pledge To Boost Ties During King's Landmark Visit RFE/RL 05 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has hosted Saudi King Salman for talks at the Kremlin, in the first official visit to Russia by a reigning Saudi monarch.
- Fresh Start: Saudi Arabia Turns to Russia Seeking to Diversify Foreign Relations Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- Riyadh has started diversifying its foreign relations due to the US' further rapprochement with Tel Aviv, Russian political scientist Vyacheslav Smirnov told Radio Sputnik. According to the expert, the first ever visit of King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud to Moscow is likely to strengthen Russo-Saudi ties.
- Putin: Saudi King's Visit to Russia a Landmark Event Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said during his first ever meeting with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud that the monarch's visit to Russia is a landmark event.
- Saudi King Salman in Russia on historic visit Press TV 04 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's King Salman has arrived in the Russian capital, Moscow, on a first such visit by a monarch in the kingdom's history.
- Saudi regime begins joint drill with France amid war on Yemen Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- Saudi Arabia and France have begun a joint military exercise in the southwest of the kingdom. The drill takes place at a time that a deadly campaign led by the regime in Riyadh keeps claiming more lives in the impoverished Yemen.
- Egyptian Saudi joint military exercise Faisal "11" wraps up in Egypt SPA 25 Sep 2017 -- The Saudi Egyptian joint "Faisal 11" military maneuvers concluded in the Arab Republic of Egypt in the presence of the Commander of the Egyptian Air Force Lieutenant General Pilot Younis Al-Sayed Al-Masri and Commander of the Acting Saudi Royal Air Force Major General Pilot Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Otaibi and a number of officers.
- At UN Assembly, Saudi Arabia pledges to press ahead in combat against terrorism, extremism UN News 23 Sep 2017 -- The threat of terrorism is among the most serious challenges facing the international community, Adel Ahmed Al-Jubeir, Minister for Foreign Affairs told the United Nations General Assembly today, stressing that his country would continue to work to counter the scourge, as well as extremism in all forms and manifestations.
- Amid Yemen war, Saudi signs military cooperation deal with Britain Press TV 19 Sep 2017 -- Britain and Saudi Arabia have signed a framework deal on military and security cooperation as the Riyadh regime intensifies its ongoing campaign against Yemen.
- Human Rights Watch censures Saudi's 'coordinated crackdown on dissent' Press TV 15 Sep 2017 -- Human Rights Watch has decried Saudi Arabia's "coordinated crackdown on dissent" against a backdrop of arresting scores of opponents, including prominent clerics, in the kingdom.
- Conservative Aceh Shows Limits of Saudi Investment in Indonesia VOA 13 Sep 2017 -- It could have been game, set and match for Saudi cultural expansion into Aceh, Indonesia's westernmost province, after it was wrecked by a 2004 tsunami that caused devastation across the region. Saudi Arabia immediately sent aid to the region which, in the face of such disaster, might have been unusually receptive to new ideas.
- Saudi Air Force prepares for "Faisal" maneuvers with Egyptian Air Force in Egypt SPA 12 Sep 2017 -- The Saudi Royal Air Force (RAF) is preparing to begin the "Faisal 11 maneuvers" with high-class aircraft with the Egyptian Air Force to be launched in the Arab Republic of Egypt at the end of next week.
- Official source: State Security Presidency was able to detect, thwart Daesh terrorist organization s terrorist plot against two headquarters of Ministry of Defense in Riyadh SPA 12 Sep 2017 -- An official source said that, the State Security Presidency - following up on terrorist threats targeting the kingdom s security and capabilities and tracking those responsible - was able to carry out a qualitative operation in detecting and thwarting a terrorist plot by Daesh terrorist organization against two headquarters of Ministry of Defense in Riyadh by suicide operation with explosive belts. The results of the security operation resulted in the following:
- Saudi authorities arrest 20 opponents amid talk of king's abdication Press TV 11 Sep 2017 -- Saudi security forces have reportedly arrested nearly 20 people, known for opposing the absolute monarchy in the Persian Gulf kingdom, in the past 24 hours.
- Is a Saudi-Iran Thaw Possible? VOA 10 Sep 2017 -- Saudi Arabia and Iran are rethinking their rivalry and a highly tentative, as well as a deniable, courtship is underway, say analysts. But it is fraught pitfalls and last week in London Saudi Arabia's foreign minister dismissed talk of a possible thaw as "laughable," saying Iran would have to change its policies dramatically for that to happen.
- Saudi crown prince 'wants out' of war on Yemen: Leaked emails Press TV 15 Aug 2017 -- Purported emails recently leaked show that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is seeking an exit from the war that Saudi Arabia has been waging against Yemen on his initiative, more than two years into a conflict the Riyadh regime has been unable to win.
- Saudi-Iraqi border crossing reopens after 27 years Press TV 15 Aug 2017 -- Saudi Arabia and Iraq have announced they would soon reopen a major border crossing for trade after some 27 years of closure.
- Saudi razes hundreds of houses in Shia-majority town Press TV 14 Aug 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has reportedly laid waste to at least 320 houses in an eastern Shia-majority town, which it has placed under siege for about three months.
- Vice Custodian of Two Holy Mosques Chairs Cabinet's Session SPA 14 Aug 2017 -- Vice Custodian of Two Holy Mosques Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud chaired the Cabinet's Session which was held at Al-Salam palace in Jeddah today.
- Reports: Iraq To Mediate Between Saudi Arabia, Iran RFE/RL 14 Aug 2017 -- An Iraqi leader has said his country will take the role as mediator between rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran, media in Iraq and Iran are reporting.
- Saudi forces cordon off Shia town of Awamiyah: HRW Press TV 13 Aug 2017 -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) says Saudi forces have encircled the predominantly Shia town of Awamiyah and sealed it off since July, raising concerns about the humanitarian situation there.
- Saudi Arabia sentences senior Shia clergyman to 13 years in prison Press TV 10 Aug 2017 -- A court in Saudi Arabia has sentenced distinguished Shia cleric Ayatollah Sheikh Hussein al-Radhi to 13 years in prison as the Riyadh regime presses ahead with its heavy-handed crackdown on members of the religious community.
- Iraq, Saudi Arabia Reopen Land Border and Prepare to Resume Air Links VOA 08 Aug 2017 -- Saudi Arabia and Iraq say they are in the process of improving relations after the first busloads of Iraqi pilgrims entered the Saudi kingdom through a border crossing at Arar, which had been closed for 27 years. The nations also say that they are resuming air transportation, but have not set a date for the first flights.
- Saudi bulldozers reduce Awamiyah to rubble as residents flee violence Press TV 04 Aug 2017 -- Saudi military bulldozers have almost razed Awamiyah to the ground amid the deadly crackdown on the besieged Shia town, forcing hundreds of its residents to flee their homes.
- Saudi regime forces kill civilian in Awamiyah as clashes continue Press TV 02 Aug 2017 -- Saudi police forces have killed a civilian during their latest raid on the besieged Shia-majority town of Awamiyah.
- Saudi forces set ablaze Shia homes in restive Awamiyah Press TV 01 Aug 2017 -- Saudi forces have set fire to homes belonging to Shia residents in the besieged town of Awamiyah that has been the scene of a heavy-handed regime crackdown on the minority community.
- 2 killed as Saudi police intensify attacks on besieged Shia-populated town Press TV 29 Jul 2017 -- Saudi security forces have killed at least two young men in a besieged town in the kingdom's Shia-populated Eastern Province, as the Riyadh regime continues its heavy-tactics crackdown there, targeting dissidents.
- Saudi Shias told to leave Awamiyah or die: Sources Press TV 29 Jul 2017 -- Local sources in the al-Awamiyah town in Saudi Arabia's Shia-populated Eastern Province say the locals have been told to either leave their homes or face death at the hands of security forces.
- HRW urges Riyadh to clarify deposed crown prince's status Press TV 27 Jul 2017 -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Saudi Arabia to clarify whether restrictions are imposed on recently-deposed crown prince Mohammed bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's freedom of movement.
- Prince Salman seeking to remove head of Saudi national guard: Report Press TV 26 Jul 2017 -- Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, who became the next in line for the throne by sweeping aside his father's nephew Mohammed bin Nayef, is now planning to secure his path to power by removing the kingdom's National Guard Minister Mutaib bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud , according to a new report.
- One killed as Saudi forces shell homes in Shia town Press TV 26 Jul 2017 -- Saudi regime forces have launched a fresh wave of shelling attacks against a besieged town in Saudi Arabia's Shia-populated Eastern Province, killing at least one person and damaging several houses.
- Kingdom has supported Yemen with more than eight and a half billion dollars in 26 months SPA 23 Jul 2017 -- Advisor at the Royal Court and General Supervisor of King Salman Center Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabiah said that the cholera epidemic has been endemic in Yemen for many years due to the depletion of health infrastructure and poor public health standards.
- King Salman Relief Center provides assistance to Yemen worth $ 615 million SPA 23 Jul 2017 -- King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid has provided for brothers in Yemen since it was launched by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud a number of projects amounted to 139 different projects for the Yemeni governorates in various fields including relief, humanitarian aid, shelter, agriculture and water programs in collaboration with 84 national and local partners, focusing on children and women projects and support for Yemeni refugees in Djibouti and Somalia with an amount of US $ 615,839,175.
- Saudi security system overhauled on overnight royal decrees Press TV 20 Jul 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has issued a series of overnight decrees to overhaul the country's security and intelligence apparatus, a move that could spark fresh concerns about the royal's increased inclination to give more power to his son and the second to the throne Mohammed.
- Saudi 'entities' channeling money to terrorist groups: US State Dept. Press TV 20 Jul 2017 -- The United States has praised Qatar's "strong partnership" in the fight against "terrorism," but accused individuals and "entities" in Saudi Arabia of channeling money out of the country to "terrorist" organizations.
- 'Coup' at midnight in the Arabian Desert Press TV 20 Jul 2017 -- Mohammed bin Salman, a prince who rose from obscurity when his father became Saudi Arabia's king in 2015 and who ultimately ousted an elder to become crown prince, gained that status in a secretive push that had been "planned out" in advance, a report has revealed.
- Jeremy Corbyn says UK arms sales to Saudi Arabia 'unethical' Press TV 10 Jul 2017 -- Britain's opposition Labour Party Leader Jeremy Corbyn has criticized a UK High Court ruling that allows London to continue arms sales to Saudi Arabia.
- UK court: Saudi arms sales lawful Press TV 10 Jul 2017 -- The UK High Court has reviewed a plea against the country's arms sales to Saudi Arabia in the light of the fact that the kingdom is waging a bloody war against Yemen, deciding that the government's weapons sales are not in contravention of the law.
- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Chairs Cabinet s Session SPA 10 Jul 2017 -- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud chaired the Cabinet s session at Al-Salam Palace in Jeddah on Monday afternoon.
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is determined to firmly face whoever dares to harm its stability and security, King says SPA 09 Jul 2017 -- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has said that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is determined to firmly face whoever dares to harm its stability and security and get him accountable and punished.
- Labour leader calls for end to UK arms sales to Saudi Arabia Press TV 01 Jul 2017 -- Britain's Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn has denounced the use of UK-made weapons in Saudi Arabia's war against Yemen, calling on the government to block further arms sales to the kingdom.
- Ex-Saudi crown prince under house arrest after royal reshuffling: Report Press TV 29 Jun 2017 -- The deposed crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Nayef, has reportedly been put under house arrest after the recent reshuffling in the country's royal succession.
- Saudi FM calls Qatar demands non-negotiable, Qatar calls them unrealistic Press TV 27 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir has said that Arab states' demands from Qatar are non-negotiable.
- Egypt's Sisi ratifies controversial islands deal with Saudis Press TV 24 Jun 2017 -- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has endorsed a controversial agreement with Saudi Arabia on the transfer of the sovereignty of two Red Sea islands to the kingdom.
- Egyptian President Ratifies Red Sea Islands Transfer to Saudi Arabia Sputnik 24 Jun 2017 -- Egyptian President has ratified the maritime border demarcation agreement with Saudi Arabia, the state-controlled MENA agency reported Saturday, citing a government statement.
- Saudis Say Suicide Terror Attack Foiled Near Grand Mosque RFE/RL 24 Jun 2017 -- The authorities in Saudi Arabia say police have foiled a "terrorist action" against Islam's holiest site, with a suicide bomber blowing himself up near the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca.
- Mecca Terror Plot Foiled, Saudi Authorities Say VOA 24 Jun 2017 -- Saudi forces disrupted a terrorist plot to attack worshippers Friday in the vicinity of Mecca's Grand Mosque, a spokesman for the Interior Ministry said Saturday.
- Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman US Dept. of State 21 Jun 2017
- Saudi king relieves Nayef as crown prince Press TV 21 Jun 2017 -- Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has replaced Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud with his own son, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, the deputy crown prince and defense minister.
- A number of royal orders issued SPA 21 Jun 2017 -- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud issued today a number of royal orders as follows:
- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Directs Governors of Regions to Receive Allegiance-Pledge on Behalf of the Crown Prince SPA 21 Jun 2017 -- Emanating from the keenness of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on the welfare of citizens and his wish for facilitating for them not to travel to Makkah, he has directed Governors of Regions, Governors of Governorates and Heads of Centers to receive the allegiance-pledge on behalf of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense on Wednesday 26/9/1438 AH.
- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Calls for Pledging Allegiance to Prince Mohammed bin Salman as Crown Prince SPA 21 Jun 2017 -- According to the Royal Order No. (A / 255) dated on 26/9/1438 AH including the selection of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud as Crown Prince, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has called for pledging allegiance to Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, as the Crown Prince, at Al-Safa Palace in Makkah after Taraweeh prayers on Wednesday 26/9/1438 AH.
- Prince Mohammed bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Pledges Allegiance to Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz as Crown Prince SPA 21 Jun 2017 -- Prince Mohammed bin Naif bin Abdulaziz pledged allegiance to Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz on the occasion of his selection as the Crown Prince at Al-Safa Palace in Makkah, praying to Allah Almighty for his all success.
- Saudi Power Struggle Ends With King Promoting His Son to Be Heir Sputnik 21 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's King Salman has dramatically decided to change the line of succession. His original heir, his nephew, Prince Mohammed bin Nayef has also been fired from his job as interior minister.
- Saudi King Appoints Son Mohammad Bin Salman as New Crown Prince Sputnik 21 Jun 2017 -- Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has fired crown prince Muhammad Bin Nayef, replacing him with own son Mohammad Bin Salman, according to the king's decree.
- Saudi King Elevates Son to Crown Prince VOA 21 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's King Salman has promoted his 31-year-old son Mohammed bin Salman to crown prince, making him next in line to the throne while also serving as defense minister and overseeing an effort to overhaul the country's economy.
- Analysts: Appointment of New Saudi Crown Prince Is No Surprise VOA 21 Jun 2017 -- The appointment of Saudi King Salman's son, Mohammed bin Salman, to be the new crown prince, replacing his cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef, had long been rumored, but may have been precipitated by acute regional tensions, including the war in Yemen, the intensifying regional struggle with Iran, and the recent crisis with Qatar.
- Number of Iranian fishing boats driven toward KSA unknown IRNA 18 Jun 2017 -- An informed source said that the number of boats driven by sea waves toward Saudi Arabia is unknown, adding one or three boats could have entered Saudi waters.
- Iranian fisherman killed by Saudi coastguards IRNA 18 Jun 2017 -- An Iranian fisherman has been killed by Saudi Arabia coastguards, an official at the Interior Ministry announced.
- Baseless Expectations: Saudi Arabia Rejects Turkish Idea to Station Troops There Sputnik 17 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia does not intend to allow Turkey to form a military base in the Kingdom as there is no need for it, the Saudi Press Agency stated Saturday, citing an official source.
- Saudi king strips crown prince of prosecution oversight Press TV 17 Jun 2017 -- Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz has stripped the country's crown prince of powers overseeing criminal investigations, designating a new public prosecution office to function directly under the king's authority.
- Saudi Foreign Minister holds a press conference at Saudi Embassy in London SPA 17 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir affirmed that the Kingdom's hosting of the historic conference which brought together a number of Islamic and Arab countries with the United States of America aims to change the language of dialogue between Arab and Islamic countries and their counterparts in the West.
- Saudi coastguard kills Iranian fisherman in Persian Gulf Press TV 17 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's coastguard has killed an Iranian fisherman in the waters south of Iran, a senior border official of the Islamic Republic says.
- One killed as Saudi forces intensify attacks on Shia town Press TV 14 Jun 2017 -- Saudi regime forces have launched a fresh wave of attacks against a besieged town in Saudi Arabia's Shia-populated Eastern Province, killing at least one person and injuring nearly 40 others over the past 48 hours.
- U.S. Senate Narrowly Defeats Bid To Block Some Saudi Arms Sales RFE/RL 14 Jun 2017 -- The U.S. Senate has narrowly defeated a move to block President Donald Trump's planned sale of $500 million in precision-guided munitions to Saudi Arabia out of concern they could be used to kill civilians in Yemen.
- Saudi Civil Aviation General Authority confirms commitment to prevent all Qatari airlines and aircraft from landing at Kingdom's airports SPA 13 Jun 2017 -- The General Authority of Civil Aviation said in a statement yesterday that it is committed to its decision issued on 10/9/1438 H, corresponding to 5/6/2017, on banning all Qatari aviation companies and aircraft registered in the State of Qatar from landing at the Kingdom's airports or transiting its sovereign airspace.
<li><a href="/wmd/library/news/iran/2017/iran-170613-rferl01.htm">Zarif Says Saudi Arabia Supports Terrorists In Western, Eastern Iran</a> <u>RFE/RL</u> 13 Jun 2017 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has accused Saudi Arabia of "actively" backing terrorist groups in western and eastern Iran.</li>
- Trump faces growing Senate resistance on Saudi arms deal Press TV 08 Jun 2017 -- US Senators are seeking to block at least a portion of US President Donald Trump's massive sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia, amid fresh disputes among Persian Gulf nations.
- Saudi Arabia - Blanket Order Training DSCA 05 Jun 2017 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a blanket order training program for the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) and other Saudi forces. The estimated cost is $750 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on June 2, 2017.
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - AN/TPQ-53(V) Radar Systems and Related Support DSCA 05 Jun 2017 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for AN/TPQ-53(V) radar systems and related support. The estimated cost is $662 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
- 6 Countries, Including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE Cut Diplomatic Ties With Qatar VOA 05 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen and Maldives cut diplomatic ties Monday with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terrorism.
- What Is Happening in Qatar? VOA 05 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Yemen and Maldives cut diplomatic ties Monday with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terrorism.
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia severs diplomatic and consular relations with Qatar SPA 05 Jun 2017 -- An official source stated that the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia emanating from exercising its sovereign rights guaranteed by the international law and protecting its national security from the dangers of terrorism and extremism has decided to sever diplomatic and consular relations with the State of Qatar, close all land, sea and air ports, prevent crossing into Saudi territories, airspace and territorial waters, and start immediate legal procedures for understanding with fraternal and friendly countries and international companies to implement the same procedure as soon as possible for all means of transport to and from the State of Qatar for reasons relating to Saudi national security.
- Saudi, UAE, Bahrain, Egypt cut ties with Qatar Press TV 05 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt have cut diplomatic ties and all land sea and air contacts with Qatar, accusing the Persian Gulf country of supporting terrorism and interfering in their internal affairs.
- Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, U.A.E. Cut Contacts With Qatar, Citing 'Terrorism' RFE/RL 05 Jun 2017 -- Several Arab nations have cut diplomatic ties with Qatar, citing the country's alleged support for Islamist groups and its close relations with Iran.
- Saudi-Qatar diplomatic dispute escalates People's Daily 05 Jun 2017 -- The political tug-of-war between a Saudi-led group of Arab countries and the Gulf state of Qatar escalated on early Monday when Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt said they cut their diplomatic relations with Doha after a week of tit-for-tats and accusations on "terrorism support."
- Four Arab States Cut Diplomatic Ties With Qatar Sputnik 05 Jun 2017 -- Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates on Monday decided to sever diplomatic ties with Qatar.
- Saudi Arabia Cuts Diplomatic Relations With Qatar Following Bahrain Sputnik 05 Jun 2017 -- Saudi Arabia reportedly severed diplomatic relations with Qatar.
- Russia, Saudi Arabia Hail Oil Output Deal For Stabilizing World Markets RFE/RL 31 May 2017 -- Russia and Saudi Arabia on May 30 praised their agreement on oil production curbs, which they said had helped stabilize global oil prices, and agreed to pursue more cooperative efforts.
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - Navy Blanket Order Training DSCA 23 May 2017 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a Navy blanket order training program. The estimated cost is $250 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on May 22, 2017.
- Rohani Criticizes Trump's Saudi Summit, Says Vote Shows Iranians Want Engagement RFE/RL 22 May 2017 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani has criticized a summit of Muslim countries that was attended by U.S. President Donald Trump, calling the meeting in Saudi Arabia a "a show with no meaning."
- Massive US-Saudi arms deal upsets Israeli leaders Press TV 22 May 2017 -- Israel has voiced concern about the ability to retain its "qualitative military edge" in the Middle East following the $110 billion arms package signed between the US and Saudi Arabia over the weekend.
- Joint Statement between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America Issued SPA 22 May 2017 -- The joint statement between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America is issued as follows:
- President Trump's Speech to the Arab Islamic American Summit The White House 21 May 2017
- Trump tells Muslim leaders not to shelter terrorists Press TV 21 May 2017 -- President Donald Trump has said the United States seeks "a coalition of nations" to stamp out extremism in the Middle East and urged Muslim countries to ensure "terrorists find no sanctuary on their soil."
- Trump Calls For Coalition To 'Stamp Out Extremism,' Slams Iran During Landmark Speech RFE/RL 21 May 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has called for a "coalition of nations" in the Middle East to come together with the aim of "stamping out extremism" during a landmark speech on May 21, the second day of his visit to Saudi Arabia.
- Trump Calls for Muslim Unity in Fight Against Terrorism VOA 21 May 2017 -- U.S. President Donald Trump called Sunday for Muslim unity in the fight against terrorism, telling dozens of Arab and Muslim leaders at a regional summit in Riyadh it was "a battle between good and evil."
- US-Saudi Arabia seal weapons deal worth $110 billion Press TV 20 May 2017 -- United States President Donald Trump has closed an arms deal with Saudi Arabia worth almost $110 billion, and extending up to $350 billion over 10 years.
- Saudi King Says Trump Visit Will Strengthen Cooperation, Enhance Global Security RFE/RL 20 May 2017 -- Saudi Arabia's king says the ongoing visit of U.S. President Donald Trump to the kingdom will "strengthen our strategic cooperation" and help enhance global security and stability.
- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Receives US President SPA 20 May 2017 -- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received at Al-Yamamah palace here today President Donald Trump of the United States of America.
- US to Supply Saudi Arabia With THAAD, Patriot Missile Systems Sputnik 20 May 2017 -- Saudi Arabia will receive from the United States Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense systems to protect itself and the region "from missile or other airborne attacks," according to US Department of State.
- US Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia May Reach $350Bln Over Next 10 Years Sputnik 20 May 2017 -- The United States and Saudi Arabia will sign a joint vision statement and nine defense cooperation agreements, including eight letters of acceptance and one letter of intent, according to White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders.
- Washington, Riyadh Agree $110Bln Contracts on Military Sales to Saudi Arabia Sputnik 20 May 2017 -- The contracts will help provide stability in the region, a US official said.
- Trump's Visit to Saudi Arabia Will Strengthen Global Security - Saudi King Sputnik 20 May 2017 -- Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz said that the visit of US President Donald Trump to Saudi Arabia will contribute to the global security and development of the bilateral cooperation.
- Saudi Arabia to Buy Four Lockheed Martin Littoral Combat Ships for $6Bln Sputnik 20 May 2017 -- Saudi Arabia will reportedly buy four Freedom-class Littoral Combat Ships from Lockheed Martin under a foreign military sale.
- Trump, Saudi King Salman Sign a Nearly $110-Billion Defense Deal VOA 20 May 2017 -- Saudi Arabian King Salman bin Abdulaziz and U.S. President Donald Trump signed a nearly $110 billion agreement Saturday to bolster the military capabilities of Saudi Arabia.
- Jared Kushner personally intervened in Saudi arms deal: Report Press TV 19 May 2017 -- US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner personally intervened on a recent arms deal with Saudi Arabia ahead of Trump's visit to the kingdom this week, said a report.
- Saudi Arabia seeks to become major global arms supplier Press TV 19 May 2017 -- Saudi Arabia says it is set to create a new military industries firm as part of its plan to become a major global arms supplier and gradually wean itself off oil revenues.
- Saudi Arabia Hopes to Go Self-Sufficient With Weapons by 2030 Sputnik 19 May 2017 -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is to establish a state-run arms manufacturing company, which will produce ammunition, rock-launchers, armored vehicles and radars for the country's steadily strengthening military.
- Trump on way to Riyadh, planning to sell $350 billion arms: Pak media IRNA 18 May 2017 -- President Donald Trump will announce a mammoth US arms package in Riyadh for Saudi Arabia that could reach $350 billion, a Pakistani media report said.
- Little Being Left to Chance for Trump's Saudi Visit VOA 07 May 2017 -- It isn't the first time a new U.S. President has promised a fresh start in American-Arab relations. Eight years ago Barack Obama promised a beneficial reset in a speech delivered in Cairo entitled "A New Beginning."
- Iranian Defense Minister Dehghan Warns Saudi Arabia Over 'Battle' Comments RFE/RL 08 May 2017 -- Iran says it would hit back at nearly all of regional rival Saudi Arabia's territory with the exception of Islam's holiest places if the Saudis do anything "ignorant."
- Trump mulling over major weapons deals, THAAD sale in Saudi visit Press TV 05 May 2017 -- US President Donald Trump is planning to sign multi-billion dollar weapons deals with Saudi Arabia during his upcoming visit to the country, including the possible sale of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system.
- US advancing sale of precision-guided missiles to Riyadh: Saudi FM Press TV 05 May 2017 -- The US administration has taken measures to advance the sale of warheads and precision-guided missiles to Saudi Arabia as part of additional military and intelligence assistance to the kingdom's bloody intervention in Yemen.
- Saudi Arabia must reform 'unacceptably broad' counter-terrorism law - UN rights expert UN News 05 May 2017 -- Saudi Arabia must stop using its anti-terror law to violate the right to free speech of its people, and end the use of torture terrorist suspects during investigations, a United Nations human rights expert urged at the end of his mission to the country.
- Ambassador Al-Jaber confirms that Kingdom, coalition countries have no ambitions in Yemen SPA 04 May 2017 -- The Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Yemen, Mohammed bin Saeed Al Jaber, said that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab alliance countries have no ambitions in Yemen and its aim is that Yemen, the Yemenis and the region enjoy security and stability.
- King Salman's brother, head of kingdom's succession council, dies Press TV 03 May 2017 -- King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's older brother, Prince Mishaal, who was the head of the country's succession council, has died.
- Iran Denounces Saudi Refusal To Engage In Dialogue As 'Destructive' RFE/RL 04 May 2017 -- Iran has reacted to a rare televised interview by Saudi Arabia's deputy crown prince, accusing him of stoking tensions in the region with a "destructive" statement ruling out dialogue with Tehran.
- Saudi Crown Prince Rules Out Opening Dialogue With Rival Iran RFE/RL 03 May 2017 -- In a rare televised interview, Saudi Arabia's deputy crown prince has said there is no possibility that he would open a dialogue with rival Iran because of its Shi'ite ambitions "to control the Islamic world."
- Saudi Arabia Seeks to Develop Military Industry - Defense Minister Sputnik 03 May 2017 -- Defense Minister Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud said that Saudi Arabia intends to develop military industry.
- >We are in a race against time to achieve the Kingdom's vision 2030, Prince Mohammed bin Salman announces SPA 02 May 2017 -- In a 50-minute interview with Al-Thamnah (the 8th) TV program aired here this evening, Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense, confirmed that the implementation of the Kingdom's vision 2030 is done through its three-faceted programs, one runs until 2020, another to 2025 and the third to 2030.
- US, Saudi Arabia Affirm Cooperation in Countering 'Iran's Mischief' VOA 19 Apr 2017 -- The United States is pledging support for Saudi efforts to counter Iran's destabilizing activities in the region.
- Mattis Arrives in Saudi Arabia for Talks on Strengthening Strategic Ties AFPS 18 Apr 2017 -- Defense Secretary Jim Mattis began a visit to Saudi Arabia today to discuss efforts to strengthen commitments to the U.S.-Saudi security partnership.
- Media Availability with Secretary Mattis En Route to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia DoD 18 Apr 2017 -- Presenter: Defense Secretary Jim Mattis
- Pentagon Chief in Saudi Arabia With Focus on Strategic Alliances VOA 18 Apr 2017 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis is in Saudi Arabia, his first stop on a sweeping tour across the Middle East and the Horn of Africa to discuss America's role in regional security.
- Russian Lawmakers, Saudi King Disagree On Future Of Syria's President RFE/RL 16 Apr 2017 -- A delegation from Russia's upper house of parliament, the Federal Council, have met in Riyadh with Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud for talks about the war in Syria.
- Saudi king congratulates US for attacking Syria with missiles Press TV 08 Apr 2017 -- Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has called US President Donald Trump to praise in person Washington's recent missile strike against a Syrian army air base.
- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Congratulates US President on Courageous Decision regarding Implementing Military Operation in Syria SPA 08 Apr 2017 -- The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud congratulated the President Donald Turmp of the United States of America on his courageous decision regarding implementing a military operation in Syria which came in the interest of the region and world.
- Saudi fighter pilots get 60% pay boost as Yemen bombing rages Press TV 03 Apr 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has increased its air force pilots' salary by up to 60 percent shortly after its bombing campaign against Yemen enters its third year.
- Saudi Arabia, Sudan hold joint aerial drills amid war on Yemen Press TV 31 Mar 2017 -- The Saudi and Sudanese air forces have staged joint wargames in Sudan to boost their military capabilities amid their ongoing war against Yemen.
- Security Spokesman of Interior Ministry Announced Killing of Two Terrorists, Arresting Four, and Confiscating Explosives, Arms and Ammunition During a Raid on A Farm in Qatif Province SPA 29 Mar 2017 -- The Ministry of Interior today announced the killing of two terrorists, arresting of four, and confiscating explosives, arms and ammunition during a raid on farm in Qatif province early yesterday, with no fatalities or injuries among security personnel or citizens.
- Former Pakistan Army Chief Set to Take Command of 'Muslim NATO' VOA 28 Mar 2017 -- Pakistan's former army chief, Raheel Sharif, is set to become the first commander of a new Saudi-led counterterrorism coalition of mostly Sunni Islamic states, a move frustrating neighboring Shi'ite Iran in addition to prevailing domestic opposition and criticism.
- Royal Saudi Navy works as protector and supporter SPA 28 Mar 2017 -- The Royal Saudi Navy works to protect the coast of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, participates in providing military support and protection for oil installations on the coast of the Arabian Gulf, works side by side with the rest of Saudi armed forces within the Coalition Command to Support the Legitimacy in Yemen, and secures Bab-el-Mandeb Strait from any hostile breaches to ensure regional and international security.
- Saudi General Hails US Pledge to Boost Intel, Military Support Against Iran Sputnik 20 Mar 2017 -- A top Saudi military general says the Trump Administration has vowed it will significantly increase US intelligence support and defense cooperation with Riyadh against "Iran-backed" Houthis in Yemen.
- No love lost as Saudi Arabia, China tie up Press TV 18 Mar 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has clinched a raft of economic deals with China to reverse or slow down the pace at which the kingdom is losing its status as China's predominant oil supplier.
- Deputy Crown Prince Meets US Secretary of Defense and US Senior Officials SPA 17 Mar 2017
- US State Department approves weapons sales to Saudi Arabia Press TV 10 Mar 2017 -- The administration of US President Donald Trump has approved the resumption of weapons sales to Saudi Arabia which critics have linked to Riyadh's killing of civilians in Yemen, reports say.
- Saudi foreign minister makes rare visit to Iraq amid frosty ties Press TV 25 Feb 2017 -- Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir has made a rare visit to Baghdad as the first by a high-ranking Saudi official since the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003.
- Turkey, Saudi advance own interests in Iraq: Ex-US ambassador to Baghdad Press TV 24 Feb 2017 -- After a full liberation of Mosul, Iraq needs to dispatch its troops to the border with Syria, Turkey and Saudi Arabia to prevent terrorists from returning to the country, a US-based journalist says.
- Saudi Frigate Was Hit by Drone Boat, Not Suicide Bomber: US Navy Sputnik 22 Feb 2017 -- A top US Navy official is reporting that a Houthi vessel responsible for an attack on the Saudi frigate Al Madinah in late January was actually the work of a drone boat filled with explosives, instead of a suicide bomber, as previously reported.
- Riyadh may send forces to Syria to back US campaign against Daesh: Saudi FM Press TV 21 Feb 2017 -- Saudi Arabia says it is ready to support the United States in its so-called war against the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in Syria by sending ground troops and special forces to the war-torn Arab country.
- Saudi uses Scottish smart bombs in Yemen by UK-trained air force: Report Press TV 19 Feb 2017 -- A recent report has disclosed that Scottish-made Paveway IV laser-guided smart bombs have been dropped on Yemen by UK-trained Saudi air force as the Riyadh regime pushes ahead with its atrocious bombardment campaign against its conflict-ridden southern neighbor.
- Saudi Arabia 'purchasing offensive weapons' Press TV 17 Feb 2017 -- Military analysts at IHS Jane's have revealed that Saudi Arabia and several other Western-backed Arab countries in the Middle East are purchasing weapons suited for a more offensive military program in distant locations.
- Saudi deports 40k Pakistani workers amid troubled economy Press TV 14 Feb 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has expelled nearly 40,000 Pakistani migrant workers over the past four months amid widespread international criticism of the Riyadh regime's mistreatment of foreign workers in the kingdom.
- UK to continue Saudi arms sales despite funeral bombing in Yemen Press TV 12 Feb 2017 -- A new report reveals that British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson had urged the UK government to continue arms sales to Saudi Arabia even after Riyadh bombed a funeral in Yemen last October that killed over 140 people and sparked global condemnation.
- Saudi Frigate Attacked by Houthis Returns to Base Sputnik 09 Feb 2017 -- A Royal Saudi warship struck by Houthi bombers safely returned to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a coastal city approximately 40 miles west of Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
- Halting weapons sales to Saudi risks political issues: UK Press TV 08 Feb 2017 -- The UK government says it can't halt its weapons sales to Saudi Arabia because of "serious political ramifications."
- UK High Court to review arms deals with Saudi Arabia Press TV 07 Feb 2017 -- The UK High Court is set to review the country's weapons deals with Saudi Arabia, after activists accused the government of British Prime Minister Theresa May of complicity in Riyadh's war crimes against Yemen.
- Pentagon: Houthi Attack on Saudi Ship Intended for US Seacraft Sputnik 01 Feb 2017 -- A recent maritime suicide bombing off the coast of the Yemen may have been a "dress rehearsal" for a comparable attack on US destroyers patrolling waterways in the Middle East.
- Readout of Secretary Mattis' Call with Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Deputy Crown Prince and Minister of Defense Mohammed bin Salman DoD 31 Jan 2017
- Saudi frigate comes under terrorist attack west of Hodeida by three Houthi suicide boats SPA 30 Jan 2017 -- The command of the coalition to support legitimacy in Yemen announced in a statement today 30/01/2017 that a Saudi frigate came under a terrorist attack by three suicide boats belonging to the Houthi militias while on patrol west of the port of Hodeida.
- Why Saudi Arabia, Egypt Have Kept Mum About Muslim Travel Ban VOA 30 Jan 2017 -- Public fury over the Trump administration's ban on travel from several Muslim majority countries may not be abating, but many Muslims in the Middle East and beyond are taking the measure in stride.
- White House Says Saudis Agree On Need For Syria, Yemen Safe Zones RFE/RL 30 Jan 2017 -- The White House says President Donald Trump and Saudi Arabia's King Salman voiced support for the idea of safe zones in Syria and Yemen in an hour-long phone call.
- Trump, Saudi King Agree to Back Safe Zones in Syria and Yemen VOA 29 Jan 2017 -- The White House says President Donald Trump and Saudi King Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud have agreed to back safe zones in Syria and Yemen.
- Saudi Arabia Showcases Newly Received US F-15SA Fighters - Reports Sputnik 26 Jan 2017 -- The Royal Saudi Air Force fleet is getting new US-developed F-15SA Strike Eagle multirole fighters, local media report.
- Riyadh unveils modern US-made warplane Press TV 25 Jan 2017 -- Saudi Arabia has unveiled a new bomber manufactured by the United States despite international criticism about the kingdom's devastating war on neighboring Yemen.
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - 74K Persistent Threat Detection System (PTDS) Aerostats DSCA 23 Jan 2017 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for 74K Persistent Threat Detection System (PTDS) Aerostats and related equipment, support, and training. The estimated cost is $525 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
- Saudis Bow Out of Contract to Develop Ukraine's Grom-2 Missile System Sputnik 21 Jan 2017 -- Last year it was reported that Saudi investors had secretly invested about $40 million into the development of the Grom-2: a new Ukrainian tactical short range ballistic missile (SRBM) system designed to compete with Russia's Iskander. However, reports now suggest that the Saudis have cut off funding, leading to the suspension of the program.
- Egyptian High Court Rejects Decision to Give Red Sea Islands to Saudi Arabia Sputnik 16 Jan 2017 -- A high court in Egypt upheld on Monday a previous ruling that overturned the government's decision to transfer two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia, the Daily News newspaper reported.
- Egyptians Applaud Court Ruling Reversing Cession of Red Sea Islands VOA 16 Jan 2017 -- The Egyptian public is applauding a court ruling against a government agreement last year to hand over the strategic Red Sea islands of Tiran and Sanafir to Saudi Arabia.
- Egyptian court rules against handover of islands to Saudi Arabia Press TV 16 Jan 2017 -- A top court in Egypt has upheld a ruling against the government's decision to hand over two strategic Red Sea islands to the Saudi regime under a controversial deal, which has sparked public outrage.
- Spain king due in Riyadh with talks on lucrative warship deal on agenda Press TV 13 Jan 2017 -- Spain's monarch is due in Saudi Arabia to reportedly help secure a lucrative warship deal with Riyadh, which has been under fire by rights groups for its bloody war against neighboring Yemen.
- Ex-Pakistan Army Chief to Lead Saudi-led Anti-terrorism Coalition VOA 08 Jan 2017 -- Pakistan's former army chief Raheel Sharif is said to have been appointed first commander-in-chief of a new counterterrorism coalition of 39 Islamic countries led by Saudi Arabia.
- Two suspected Daesh terrorists killed in Saudi capital Press TV 07 Jan 2017 -- Two suspected Daesh Takfiri terrorists have been shot and killed in Saudi Arabia's capital city, says the Interior Ministry.
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