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Saudi crown prince calls Qatari emir as Kingdom condemns ‘unjustifiable’ Iran attack on Qatar

Update Interceptor missiles are fired, after Iran’s armed forces say they targeted the Al-Udeid base in a missile attack, as seen from Doha, Qatar, June 23, 2025. (Reuters)
Interceptor missiles are fired, after Iran’s armed forces say they targeted the Al-Udeid base in a missile attack, as seen from Doha, Qatar, June 23, 2025. (Reuters)
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Updated 24 June 2025

Saudi crown prince calls Qatari emir as Kingdom condemns ‘unjustifiable’ Iran attack on Qatar

Interceptor missiles are fired, after Iran’s armed forces say they targeted the Al-Udeid base in a missile attack.
  • Kingdom affirmed solidarity and full support for Qatar, is deploying all capabilities to support country in all measures it takes
  • Widespread Arab condemnation following attacks

RIYADH: º£½ÇÖ±²¥ on Monday condemned strikes launched by Iran on targets in Qatar, a foreign ministry statement said.

“The Kingdom of º£½ÇÖ±²¥ condemns and denounces in the strongest terms the aggression launched by Iran against the sisterly State of Qatar, which constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and the principles of good neighborliness,†the statement said.Ìı

“It is unacceptable and cannot be justified under any circumstances,†it added.

º£½ÇÖ±²¥â€™s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made a phone call to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar.

During the call, the Crown Prince affirmed the Kingdom’s full support for Qatar and its condemnation of the unjustified blatant aggression launched by Iran against the gulf state, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The Crown Prince also affirmed that the Kingdom has deployed all its capabilities to support Qatar as it takes measures to protect its security and preserve its sovereignty.

The Kingdom affirmedÌıits solidarity and full support for Qatar and is deploying all its capabilities to support the country in all measures it takes, the statementÌıadded.Ìı

Iran launched missile attacks Monday on a USÌımilitary base in Qatar, retaliating for the American bombing of its nuclear sites in the early hours of Sunday morning.ÌıÌı

Qatar condemned the attack on Al-Udeid Air Base attack, but said it successfully intercepted the missiles and no casualties were reported. It said its airspace is now safe.

UAE condemnation

The UAE described the attack as a flagrant violation of Qatar’s sovereignty and airspace, and a clear contravention of international law and the UN Charter.

In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed its categorical rejection of any attack that threatens Qatar’s security and safety and undermines the security and stability of the region.

The ministry expressed the UAE’s full solidarity with Qatar and its unwavering support for all measures aimed at protecting the security and safety of its citizens and residents.

It also stressed the need for an immediate halt to military escalation, warning that the continuation of such actions would undermine regional security and drag the region down dangerous paths with disastrous repercussions for international peace and security.

The statement further called for diplomatic solutions and the principle of good neighborliness, stressing that serious dialogue remains the only way to overcome current crises and safeguard the region’s security, stability, and the safety of its people.

Egypt concerned

Egypt also expressed its strong condemnation and denunciation of the Iranian attacks, considering them a “violation of its sovereignty, a threat to its territorial integrity, and a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.â€

Egypt also expressed its “deep concern over the rapidly escalating and dangerous situation in the region,â€Ìıstressing its "complete rejection of all forms of military escalation or infringement on the sovereignty of states,â€Ìıaccording to a statement from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

Bahrain urges international action

Bahrain affirmed its “full support for the sisterly State of Qatar following the Iranian attack on its territory."

Bahrain expressed its solidarityÌıas “required by the bond of brotherhood and blood, and affirms the solidarity of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries in these sensitive circumstances facing the region, to exert the necessary efforts to exercise self-restraint, avoid escalation, and resolve all disputes through peaceful means,â€Ìıaccording to the Bahrain News Agency.

The kingdom called on the international community and the UN Security Council to shoulder theirÌıresponsibilities in condemning the attacks, and taking effective steps to deter Iran's irresponsible actions. It also urged cooperationÌıto restore stability and prevent further escalation in the region, embracing dialogue and diplomacy to preserve the security of the region and the peace of its people.

Omani rejection

Oman condemned the ongoing escalation in the region. An official spokesperson for the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the Iranian missile attack on Qatar as “a rejected and condemned act†that violated the sovereignty of a Gulf Cooperation CouncilÌıstate, contradicted the principles of good neighborliness, and risked expanding the conflict to devastating effect.

Kuwait

Kuwait also denounced the Iranian strike, calling it a “blatant violation†of Qatari sovereignty and airspace and “a dangerous escalation that threatens peace, security, and stability in the region.â€

Iraq’s deep concern

The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep concern over the “dangerous and accelerating escalation,†describing the attack on Qatar as a turning point that could expand the conflict and warned of the risks posed by the involvement of new actors in the confrontation.

Jordan

Jordan strongly condemned the missile strike, calling it a “flagrant violation†of Qatar’s sovereignty and international law. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates affirmed Jordan’s “absolute solidarity†with Qatar in confronting threats to its security and stability.

Wider Arab response

Morocco joined the chorus of condemnation, with its Ministry of Foreign Affairs describing the attack as a “blatant missile strike†and reiterating the Kingdom’s full solidarity with Qatar.

Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi said the organization was “surprised†butÌıstrongly condemned the Iranian attack, calling it a direct threat not just to Qatar but to all GCC states. He reaffirmed the Council’s unity and expressed surprise that the strike came despite the GCC’s condemnation of Israeli actions and ongoing mediation efforts.

The Arab Parliament echoed these concerns, labelling the attack “a flagrant and unacceptable violation of Qatari sovereignty†and warning of the dangers of further escalation.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the strike as a violation of a sister nation’s sovereignty, cautioning that it would heighten tensions and hamper de-escalation efforts.

Palestine also issued a statement of support for Qatar, describing the attack as a “blatant violation†of its sovereignty and affirming solidarity with the Qatari people.

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French solidarity

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday called for a return to negotiations after Iran’s attack.

“The spiral of chaos must end,†he wrote on X. “I call on all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, de-escalate and return to the negotiating table.†He expressed his solidarity with Qatar.

Speaking to broadcaster France 2, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said: “This is a dangerous escalation in which Iran bears a heavy responsibility. It is a cycle of violence that puts the region at risk of a widespread conflagration, which would have very serious repercussions even here at home.â€

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UN chiefÌı‘deeply alarmed’

The UN Secretary-General is deeply alarmed by the further escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, a spokesperson for Antonio Guterres said Monday.

“From the outset of the crisis, the Secretary-General has repeatedly condemned any military escalation in this conflict, including (Monday)’s attack by Iran on the territory of Qatar. He further reiterates his call on all parties to stop fighting,†the spokesperson said. 

“The Secretary-General urges all member states to uphold their obligations under the UN Charter and other rules of international law,†they added.


Riyadh gears up for global fire, rescue contest

Riyadh gears up for global fire, rescue contest
Updated 9 sec ago

Riyadh gears up for global fire, rescue contest

Riyadh gears up for global fire, rescue contest

RIYADH: º£½ÇÖ±²¥, represented by the General Directorate of Civil Defense, will host the World Fire and Rescue Championship in Riyadh from Oct. 26 to Nov. 1.

The event, organized in partnership with the International Sport Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers, will feature participants from 22 countries.

Firefighting and rescue sports simulate real-life firefighting operations in a competitive framework that tests athletes’ speed, endurance and teamwork, according to the Saudi Press Agency report.

The championship includes four main competitions: hook ladder climbing; the 100-meter hurdles race; the 400-meter relay race; and the water pump and hose firefighting race.

º£½ÇÖ±²¥ joined the federation in 2022 to help develop fire and rescue sports locally and globally, enhance international cooperation, and build human capabilities.

This is achieved through sharing knowledge, expertise and skills, and introducing new rescue and firefighting technologies, the SPA reported.

Aleksandr Chupriyan, president of the federation, praised the Kingdom’s efforts, expressing confidence that º£½ÇÖ±²¥ will deliver an outstanding championship.

He said this year’s event will feature elite civil defense and rescue teams from around the world competing in a humanitarian profession dedicated to safeguarding human life.


Hajj conference to spotlight tech, services

Hajj conference to spotlight tech, services
Updated 27 min ago

Hajj conference to spotlight tech, services

Hajj conference to spotlight tech, services

JEDDAH: The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in partnership with the Pilgrim Experience Program, will hold the fifth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah from Nov. 9 to 12, under the theme “From Makkah to the World.â€

The event will feature more than 80 sessions and 60 workshops, with participants including academics, researchers, and representatives of Hajj affairs offices and diplomatic missions. 

Additionally, more than 2,400 trainees from around the world are expected to attend, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

More than 260 exhibitors from 137 countries will showcase the latest technologies and services related to the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem.

This year’s conference is expected to launch high-impact initiatives. And officials will sign new agreements to enhance the integration of technology, urban development, and services for pilgrims.

On Monday, Makkah Deputy Gov. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz met with Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah in Jeddah to review pilgrim services.

The officials also discussed final preparations for the conference, which will include representatives from the public and private sectors.


Burj Al Khazzan reimagined for a sustainable Riyadh

Burj Al Khazzan reimagined for a sustainable Riyadh
Updated 16 min 26 sec ago

Burj Al Khazzan reimagined for a sustainable Riyadh

Burj Al Khazzan reimagined for a sustainable Riyadh
  • Riyadh’s landmark water tower could be transformed into a cultural and ecological space by 2030
  • The concept will blend Najdi architecture, bioclimatic innovation, and sensory experience

RIYADH: In the heart of Al-Watan Park, in the historic district of Al-Futah, stands a familiar yet overlooked silhouette: the Burj Al Khazzan. This 61-meter-tall water tower, built in the 1970s by Swedish architect Sune Lindstrom, long served a crucial role: storing water for a rapidly growing capital.

Today, as Riyadh redefines its urban identity under Vision 2030 and the Green Riyadh initiative, the Burj may soon begin a new life — cultural, ecological, symbolic.

Still at the conceptual stage, the transformation project was envisioned by Stella Amae, a Franco-Japanese architecture firm based in Paris and Barcelona, after a consultation launched by the Public Investment Fund.

“The Burj is a unique object. It speaks of heritage, of water, of collective memory. We want to make it a living landmark, a Tree of Life,†said Alexandre Stella, co-founder of Stella Amae.

The concept structure : a bioclimatic façade that interacts with air, light, sound and humidity. (Supplied)

The design draws inspiration from the trunk of the date palm — a regional symbol — and the triangular patterns of Najdi architecture. The structure would become a bioclimatic facade, interacting with air, light, sound, and humidity to create a true sensorial ecosystem.

“We envisioned a living skin, one that breathes. It would capture the sounds of the city, diffuse soft light, include bird nesting boxes … This would not be a frozen monument, but a living urban organism,†he added.

More than an architectural gesture, the project aims to meet a social need: to create a space for gathering, contemplation, and transmission — in a district already rich in cultural institutions.

FASTFACT

The proposed structure includes
  • A public space at the base of the tower combining cultural and commercial activities

  • A rooftop designed to host events and offer breathtaking views over the park

  • Subtle lighting of the structure, activated during celebrations and special occasions

“The neighbourhood lacks a central point, a gathering space. The water tower could become that symbolic core,†Stella said.

A sustainable, reversible, and experimental architecture

The project follows a sustainable and experiential design approach, with particular attention to environmental impact and long-term viability.

One of its key technical features is the use of ultra-high performance fiber concrete — a cutting-edge French engineering innovation that ensures structural strength and durability over time.

The design is inspired by the trunk of the date palm and the triangular motifs of Najdi architecture. (Supplied)

Another central principle is reversibility. The bioclimatic facade is designed as a lightweight, removable structure, non-invasive to the original building — allowing full restoration of the water tower if needed, in a spirit of heritage preservation and architectural temporality.

The project involves international creative talent, including Studio Jouan for sound design and BOA Light Studio for lighting. No local partners have been involved yet, because the project is still in the exploratory phase.

The targeted potential delivery date is 2030 — echoing the broader transformation milestones of the Saudi capital.

While the project is at a design phase, Stella Amae is currently working on an archaeology research center and museum in Al-Sufouh, Dubai, with X-Architects.

Concept overview: a lively public space at the base of the tower, an event rooftop overlooking the park, and discreet lighting activated for special occasions. (Supplied)

The firm has also contributed to several major projects in the Middle East, including a residential project at Diriyah Gate 2 with AS.Architecture Studio in Paris and the Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Grand Mosque in Diriyah, in collaboration with X-Architects from Dubai.

However, the potential Burj Al-Khazzan project holds a unique place in their approach: “It raises questions about urban heritage, water, memory … It is not just an architectural object. It is a piece of the city, a piece of history that we want to turn into the future,†Stella said.

Turning a former water tower into a Tree of Life is a powerful metaphor for a city seeking to grow a new kind of urbanism — one that honors its past and looks toward a more sustainable future.


Saudi cultural movement in the spotlight at Central Saint Martins college in London

The event was organized by Ghadah Alharthi.
The event was organized by Ghadah Alharthi.
Updated 20 min 54 sec ago

Saudi cultural movement in the spotlight at Central Saint Martins college in London

The event was organized by Ghadah Alharthi.
  • Symposium aims to highlight the significant effects of Saudi arts, culture and innovation in shaping the future of creativity across the region
  • Titled ‘New Directions from the Middle East and Asia,’ the event is organized by Ghadah Alharthi, a cultural adviser and associate professor in culture and innovation

LONDON: Central Saint Martins college in London has hosted an arts and culture symposium that explored the cultural transformation in º£½ÇÖ±²¥, and its influence across the wider region.

The event, titled “New Directions from the Middle East and Asia,†was organized by Ghadah Alharthi, a cultural adviser and associate professor of culture and innovation at the college, which is part of the University of the Arts London. It aimed to highlight the significant effects Saudi arts, culture and innovation are having in shaping the future of creativity across the Middle East and Asia.

It offered the gathered experts and creative professionals a day of panel discussions showcasing the Kingdom’s cultural movement and its role in connecting the Middle East and Asia to the wider world.

Alharthi told the participants how the Saudi Vision 2030 plan for national development and diversification emphasizes the development of people as a foundation for cultural innovation. The symposium also highlighted the role of cultural institutions in efforts to support and nurture emerging talent, and examined the role innovation and creativity play in enhancing cultural communities and boosting the creative economy.

The participants included Saudi artist Lulwah Al-Homoud, the founder of Isdar in Riyadh, whose works were on display at the event; Sheikha Marwa bint Rashid Al-Khalifa, president of the Bahrain Arts Society; Aryana Khan, head of cultural networking organization Frieze Connect; Suzy Sikorski, director of business development at Bonhams auction house; Mimi Nguyen, a lecturer in digital innovation and founder of Nguyen Wahed Gallery in New York; and Peter Harrigan from Medina Publishing in the UK.


Saudi crown prince congratulates Japan’s new premier

Saudi crown prince congratulates Japan’s new premier
Updated 22 October 2025

Saudi crown prince congratulates Japan’s new premier

Saudi crown prince congratulates Japan’s new premier

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated Sanae Takaichi as she become Japan’s first female prime minister, the Saudi Press Agency reported early on Wednesday.

Japan’s parliament elected Takaichi on Tuesday and she underlined her commitment to boosting Japanese defense as she prepared to host visiting U.S. President Donald Trump next week.

Takaichi replaces outgoing Shigeru Ishiba after the long-ruling Liberal Democratic Party suffered disastrous losses in July elections for parliament’s upper house and lost its majority in the lower house last year. 

Her election comes a day after the LDP struck a deal in a fragile coalition with a new partner expected to pull her governing bloc further to the right.

— with input from The Associated Press.