Author: Amir Muhammad Khan

By Amir Muhammad Khan RIYADH: A Consultative Ministerial Meeting of Foreign Ministers from Arab and Islamic countries called on Iran to immediately halt its attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council nations, as well as Jordan, Azerbaijan, and Turkiye. The meeting, held in Riyadh, brought together foreign ministers from across the region to address escalating tensions and reaffirm shared commitments to peace and stability. In a joint statement issued after the meeting, the ministers underlined the necessity of respecting international law, international humanitarian law, and the principles of good neighborliness. They said these steps were essential to de-escalate conflicts, restore security, and…

By Muhammad Amir RIYADH: Saudi Arabia will sight the Shawwal moon today, with the final announcement regarding moon sighting to be made after evaluating testimonies. If the moon is not sighted, Saudi Arabia will observe the 30th fast on Thursday and Eidul Fitr will fall on March 20. The Saudi Supreme Court has directed citizens to report moon sightings to the nearest court and have their testimonies recorded. Saudi Arabia and most Arab countries commenced Ramadan on February 18. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will meet tomorrow to sight the Shawwal moon and announce the date of Eidul…

By Muhammad Amir RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense announced that its air defense systems have shot down more than 60 drones attempting to enter the country’s eastern regions overnight. According to foreign news agency AFP, multiple statements posted on social media platform X confirmed that a total of 61 drones were destroyed after midnight before reaching their intended targets. Officials said the drones were approaching the eastern areas, but timely interception prevented any damage on the ground. The Ministry emphasized that the country’s defense systems remain fully alert, and all necessary measures are being taken to neutralize potential threats.…

By Muhammad Amir RIYADH: A total of 91 Pakistani nationals stranded in Saudi Arabia have departed for Pakistan, with support from the Embassy of Pakistan, which arranged flights, hotel accommodation, and meals for the passengers. The embassy coordinated with Saudi authorities to ensure smooth rescheduling of flights and provided facilities to help stranded Pakistanis manage their stay. The passengers left from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, marking their return home amid ongoing logistical challenges. #PakistanEmbassy #SaudiArabia #StrandedPakistanis #Riyadh #RepatriationFlights

By Muhammad Amir Khan RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has warned Iran that if the attacks continue, the Kingdom could allow US forces to use its bases for operations against Iran, according to sources. A British news agency, citing sources, reported that Gulf countries had not allowed the United States to use their airspace for attacks on Iran. However, if the strikes persist, Saudi Arabia may permit US forces to use its military bases. Meanwhile, Iran has said it is not targeting Gulf countries but rather American interests in the region. Tehran has also demanded the closure of US military bases in…

By Amir Muhammad Khan RIYADH: Pakistan’s Chief of Defense Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, met Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss regional security and recent Iranian attacks on the Kingdom. The meeting highlighted defense cooperation under the strategic pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, with special focus on the recent Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting Saudi territory. #Pakistan #SaudiArabia #AsimMunir #KhalidBinSalman #IranAttacks

By Amir Muhammad Khan RIYADH: A senior Saudi official has accused the United States of redirecting its air defence resources from the Gulf to Israel, Daily Metro Morning reported, amid rising tensions across the Middle East. The official claimed Washington had quietly shifted its strategic focus, moving systems that were previously deployed to protect Gulf states from missile and drone threats. If confirmed, the move would represent a major recalibration of US military posture in a region that has long relied on American security guarantees. For decades, Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia have anchored their defence strategies on close military…

By Amir Muhammad Khan RIYADH: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held a series of high-level meetings with regional counterparts during the OIC Executive Committee gatherings in Jeddah, highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties across the Islamic world. On the sidelines, Dar met the Foreign Minister of the Maldives, Abdulla Khaleel, and Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, to discuss strategic cooperation. During his meeting with the Maldivian minister, Dar reaffirmed the longstanding brotherly ties between Pakistan and the Maldives. Both leaders pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation and reiterated support for the legitimate rights of…

By Amir Muhammad KhanJEDDAH: Saleh bin Saad Al-Murabba, acting director general of passports, inspected passport halls at King Abdulaziz International Airport to assess preparedness for the expected influx of Umrah pilgrims during Ramadan. The tour included arrival and departure areas as well as dedicated Hajj and Umrah terminals, reviewing the implementation of the seasonal operational plan during one of the busiest periods for religious travel. Officials briefed Al-Murabba on the Evaluation and Performance Measurement Unit, which monitors real-time performance indicators and completion rates to enhance services for pilgrims. The acting director general called for intensified efforts and a unified team…

By Amir Muhammad Khan JEDDAH: The Pakistan Journalists Forum, the country’s oldest voluntary media organization, held a web conference to mark the 299th Foundation Day of Saudi Arabia. The event was themed “Foundation Day of Saudi Arabia and Vision 2030: History, Identity and Bright Future.” Forum members paid tribute to Saudi leadership, noting the country’s remarkable development under the guidance of its people and rich historical heritage. Speakers highlighted the achievements of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, describing Saudi Arabia as a guiding force for the Islamic world. Forum President Maroof Hussain, General Secretary Jamil…