RIYADH: An independent assessment panel on Yemen found airstrikes launched by the Saudi-led coalition fully justified.
The coalition complied with military rules of engagement and international humanitarian laws, the panel said.
The coalition on Sunday renewed its call to international agencies to sit “face to face” to discuss untrue reports of civilian casualties and violations in Yemen.
“The Joint Incidents Assessment Team (JIAT) has invited international human rights bodies to discuss all cases, and provide details for assessment before accusing the coalition of reckless attacks,” said JIAT spokesman and legal adviser Mansour Ahmed Al-Mansour.
“We’ve asked them to give full information, including photos and coordinates of targets proving violations… but have received inadequate information,” he added.
“JIAT, representing the member states of the Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen, found airstrikes justified and in accordance with international humanitarian laws in five different cases, citing the presence of armed militants at or near those targets.”
On allegations regarding an airstrike on Al-Sabeen Maternity Hospital in Sanaa on Aug. 4, 2016, Al-Mansour said: “JIAT assessed the incident and found military activities by former (Republican Guards) supporting the armed Houthi militia based inside the former special security forces camp in Sanaa.”
He added: “Coalition forces targeted specific buildings inside the camp, which were legitimate military targets, using guided bombs that accurately hit the targets.”
The bombs’ vibration and shockwaves caused “minor collateral damage” to the hospital nearby, Al-Mansour said. JIAT concluded in its probe that the coalition did not target the hospital, he added.
On accusations regarding the bombing of a residential building in Ibb governorate on Sept. 24 last year, Al-Mansour said the coalition targeted a building used by Houthi militants as their military headquarters.
“This was a legitimate target, located at a distance of 1,070 meters from the claimed residential building,” he added.
Regarding the bombing of Al-Senidar Factory complex in Bani Al-Harith in Sanaa on Sept. 13 last year, he said JIAT assessed the incident and found that “six ballistic missiles were launched toward Saudi Arabia from northern Sanaa from Sept. 4-23 last year.”
He added: “Coalition forces carried out aerial surveillance and reconnaissance missions on these areas, and spotted a convoy of three trucks accompanied by an armed military vehicle.”
He said coalition forces tracked the convoy until it entered Al-Senidar Factory complex, located north of Sanaa.
“The forces then targeted the warehouses inside the complex… a legitimate military target,” Al-Mansour added.
Regarding a Human Rights Watch report in December 2016 about a coalition attack on Al-Zaydiyah security building in Hodeida governorate, he said JIAT found the attack justified because Houthi militants and foreign accomplices were using the building for military purposes.
“Thus the building lost its legal protection prescribed as per international conventions,” said Al-Mansour, adding that this led the coalition to target the building using precision-guided bombs.
He also justified the bombing of Salaa Palace Museum in Taiz, saying it was used “as a weapons storage facility and military barracks by the Houthis.”
Independent body rejects criticism of coalition airstrikes in Yemen
Independent body rejects criticism of coalition airstrikes in Yemen
Kuwait’s crown prince meets foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations
- Meeting takes place on sidelines of 46th extraordinary meeting of GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers discuss developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza
RIYADH: The crown prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, met the Saudi minister of foreign affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the foreign ministers of other Gulf Cooperation Council member states at Bayan Palace in Kuwait City on Thursday
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 46th extraordinary meeting of the GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers and other officials discussed the latest developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.
They stressed the need to uphold Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the aftermath of the fall of President Bashar Assad’s regime this month, and condemned Israeli authorities for their attacks against Syria and Lebanon.
They also affirmed the GCC’s support for the Palestinian people and called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith
- Hira Cultural District has books, gifts and special cuisine
- ‘Revelation Exhibition’ focuses on messages to prophets
MAKKAH: As winter arrives, the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, a landmark destination combining history, knowledge and services for tourists, has emerged as a hub for residents and visitors seeking cultural and recreational experiences.
At the heart of the district lies the “Revelation Exhibition,” which vividly narrates the story of divine messages to the prophets. It features a section focused on the life of Prophet Muhammad and the significance of Hira Mountain.
Using cutting-edge audiovisual technology, the exhibition is an immersive and enriching journey through Islamic history, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The district’s cultural library offers a treasure trove of information on the history of Makkah and Madinah, the life of the prophet, and the legacy of Hira Mountain and its surrounding areas.
This knowledge can be explored through books, scientific references, and interactive displays.
Beyond its historical and educational appeal, the cultural district constitutes a vibrant destination for leisure and commerce.
Restaurants and cafes serve a mix of local dishes inspired by Makkah’s heritage alongside international cuisine, while shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs reflecting the district's identity.
The Saudi Coffee Museum adds a distinctive flavor to the experience. Here guests can savor traditional Saudi coffee while learning about its regional variations and preparation methods.
For those seeking adventure, the district provides access to the Cave of Hira via a specially paved pathway, allowing visitors to connect with the site’s spiritual and historical significance.
A visitors’ center provides comprehensive information on the district’s features, services and cultural offerings.
Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah
MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s attorney general, Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib, praised the strong relationship between the Kingdom and Turkiye as he welcomed a delegation led by his Turkish counterpart, Muhsin Senturk, to Makkah on Thursday.
The officials discussed legal collaborations between their nations and affirmed their desire to enhance judicial cooperation to serve common interests, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season
- The pop-up experience offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles
RIYADH: Harry Potter: A Riyadh Season Adventure is one of the many enthralling and enchanting experiences on offer at Riyadh Season this year.
The pop-up experience, brought to life by Warner Bros., offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles.
Set in the vibrant Boulevard City, the area is designed to showcase some of the most iconic locations from the beloved film series, such as Hogwarts and others.
Interactive technology plays a significant role in the experience. Guests can take part in a Great Hall Sorting Experience, where they find out which Hogwarts house they belong to, and engage in Quidditch activities, as well as practice their Quaffle skills on the pitch.
There is also a zone where visitors can try wands and cast magical words they learned from the film series, like “Expecto Patronum.”
For those looking to take a piece of the magic home, the Wizarding World Shops offer exclusive merchandise, ranging from wands to house scarves, and the Three Broomsticks Food Hall offers refreshing drinks, cupcakes and other desserts.
Costumes are a big part of the fun experience, and there is a dedicated area for shopping, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect outfit to enhance their visit.
Maram Al-Ruwaili, a passionate fan dressed as a Slytherin, shared her excitement: “I’ve been a Potterhead since 2003. Now at 31, I still consider myself a big fan. I’ve tried one Harry Potter experience before, but not in Saudi Arabia.
“This time, sitting in the Great Hall, surrounded by sound effects from the films, made it feel like we were true Hogwarts students. The atmosphere, especially with the Dementors and Christmas sounds, was magical.”
The event has attracted a diverse crowd, including international visitors.
Nanditha Krishnakumar, an enthusiastic attendee from India, expressed her love for the experience: “I’ve adored Harry Potter since childhood, and this is truly amazing. It feels so lifelike and brings my dreams to life. I love Slytherin; it might seem like an evil house, but it’s one of my favorites. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.”
Aisleen de Asis, a nurse who has lived in Saudi Arabia for almost a decade, shared her perspective: “Harry Potter is a significant part of my childhood. I heard about this experience from friends and colleagues who enjoyed it, and I had to check it out myself. Being here brings back so many nostalgic memories.”
The Harry Potter experience at Riyadh Season also celebrates community and shared passion.
Fans from various backgrounds are coming together to relive the magic of their childhood, creating connections through their love for the series.
The excitement is palpable, as visitors share their stories, dress up as their favorite characters, and take part in the interactive activities that bring the magic of the books and films to life.
Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the series, the magical experience is not to be missed.
Misk Foundation celebrates NGO graduates
RIYADH: The Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, also known as Misk, celebrated the graduation of the fourth cohort of the Misk Initiatives Incubator and Impact Accelerator programs at a ceremony held recently at Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City in Riyadh.
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Al-Swaha and Misk Foundation CEO Badr Al-Badr, along with representatives of government agencies, NGOs and donors, attended the ceremony.
During the event, 11 youth initiatives were transformed into nonprofit organizations with the support of the Misk Initiatives Incubator program. Four NGOs were empowered through the Impact Accelerator program, contributing to achieving the objectives of the nonprofit sector and enhancing the role of young people in development.
Fifteen NGOs took part in the two programs, benefiting 177 people. They were provided with more than 2,000 hours of mentorship and financial grants exceeding SR7 million ($1.86 million) to support the implementation of projects serving young people. The ceremony also featured inspiring success stories, highlighting future projects aimed at amplifying social impact.
