Saudi Crown Prince's Diplomatic Strategy

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is using threats on his life to push the U.S. to pressure Israel on a future Palestinian state as part of a potential mega-deal between the countries.

Saudi Arabia's Kingdom Holding Company and Prince Alwaleed bin Talal's stake in Twitter after Elon Musk's takeover

Saudi Arabia's Kingdom Holding Company and Prince Alwaleed bin Talal will maintain their stake in Twitter after Elon Musk's takeover. Musk, now the richest person in the world, completed a $44bn acquisition and plans to become Twitter's interim CEO.

U.S. sales of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia

The Biden administration has decided to lift a ban on U.S. sales of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia in order to meet a deal, citing changes in the conduct of the campaign in Yemen. The threat level in the region has been heightened following recent events. The administration is also negotiating defense and civil nuclear cooperation agreements.

Excavation of 7,000-Year-Old Stone Circles in Saudi Arabia

Archaeologists in Saudi Arabia excavated 7,000-year-old ancient standing stone circles, believed to be used as dwellings. The site also contained remains of livestock and seashells from the Red Sea, indicating a diversified economy and trade network in the Neolithic Period.

Saudi Arabia's Economic Challenges and Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia faces economic challenges with its Vision 2030 plan, experiencing budget deficits, rising debt, and difficulties attracting foreign investment.

Trump Organization's Luxury Tower in Saudi Arabia

The Trump Organization plans to develop a luxury Trump Tower in Saudi Arabia in partnership with Dar Global, raising concerns about conflicts of interest should former President Donald Trump return to the White House. The organization is also involved in other projects in the Middle East.

Tragic Deaths During Hajj Pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

Over 1,300 people died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to extreme temperatures and difficulties with crowd control. The high death toll has raised concerns over the authorities' precautions and support for the pilgrims during the sacred event.

Hajj pilgrimage tragedy in Saudi Arabia

Over 1,300 faithful died during the hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to intense heat, prompting calls for multiple solutions to prevent future tragedies.

Tragic Hajj pilgrimage deaths in Saudi Arabia

Over 1,300 people died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to extreme temperatures at Islamic holy sites.

Saudi Arabia's Sports Investment and 'Sportswashing'

Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in sports to improve its global image and achieve social and economic transformation through Vision 2030. The term 'sportswashing' is used to describe this strategy, but supporters argue it is about more than just image enhancement.

High Death Toll During 2024 Hajj Pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

Over 1,300 people died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to extreme high temperatures. The majority of the fatalities were unauthorized pilgrims who walked long distances in scorching heat to perform rituals in Mecca. The pilgrimage's history has seen deadly incidents, with the 2015 stampede being the deadliest, killing over 2,400 pilgrims. The extreme heat during this year's Hajj period led to many pilgrims fainting and collapsing.

Tragic Deaths during 2024 Hajj Pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

Over 1,300 people died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to extreme high temperatures. Many were unauthorized pilgrims who walked long distances in scorching heat to perform the rituals. The incident highlights the challenges of ensuring safety during the annual pilgrimage.

Death Toll from Hajj in Saudi Arabia

The death toll from this year's hajj in Saudi Arabia has exceeded 1,000, with many unregistered pilgrims dying due to extreme heat. Various countries have reported deaths, with Egypt having the highest number of casualties. The high temperatures and lack of official permits have contributed to the fatalities.

Deaths during 2024 Hajj Pilgrimage in Mecca

Over 550 Muslims have died during the 2024 hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, mainly due to heat-related illnesses. The extreme temperatures in Mecca have led to over 2,000 pilgrims being treated for heat stress. The large number of deaths and missing pilgrims have raised concerns about the safety and conditions during the pilgrimage.

U.S.-Saudi Arabia Trade and Defense Deal

The United States and Saudi Arabia are close to finalizing a landmark trade and defense deal, but negotiations are stalled due to Israel's war in Gaza and the upcoming American presidential election. The deal includes boosting Saudi's military defenses against Iran, U.S. help with Saudi civilian nuclear infrastructure, and increasing tech industry ties.

US-Saudi Arabia Security Agreement and Middle East Diplomacy

President Joe Biden's national security adviser met with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss a security agreement between the countries, including a two-state solution for the Palestinian issue.

U.S. Foreign Policy

The United States is expected to lift a ban on the sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia in the coming weeks, signaling a shift in policy from the Biden administration.

Saudi Arabia-US Security Agreement

Saudi Arabia and the United States are discussing a wide-ranging security agreement, including a two-state solution for Palestine and nuclear cooperation. The deal is crucial for the region's stability amid tensions with Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Handling of Gaza Crisis

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing criticism from fellow war cabinet members for his handling of Gaza, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and former Defense Minister Benny Gantz demanding changes in policy. Netanyahu rejected their proposals, leading to increased public and international pressure on him. The International Criminal Court's prosecutor applied to issue arrest warrants for Netanyahu and others, and some Western states announced recognition of a Palestinian state. Netanyahu's refusal to accede to demands for steps leading to Palestinian statehood, including normalization with Saudi Arabia, has further diminished his public standing.

Saudi Arabia seeking help from Biden administration to develop nuclear program

Political leaders in Saudi Arabia are seeking help from the Biden administration to develop a nuclear program, possibly as part of a larger security deal that includes normalizing ties with Israel. Discussions took place during National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's visit to Saudi Arabia and Israel. The deal is part of a greater plan to discourage Saudi Arabia from relying on China for weapons purchases.

Meeting Between White House National Security Adviser and Saudi Crown Prince

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss a security agreement amid tensions following an attack by Hamas. The discussions involved a two-state solution for Palestinians and the situation in Gaza. The agreement may include advanced weapons, trade deals, and nuclear cooperation.

Saudi Arabia's Jaumur Marina Resort and Neom Initiative

Saudi Arabia is planning an extravagant marina resort called Jaumur for the world's biggest superyachts, part of the Neom initiative. The project includes luxury villas, apartments, hotels, and aerofoil for yacht protection. However, the initiative has faced criticism for reported plans to forcefully evict locals to make way for the development.

White House National Security Adviser's Travel Plans

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia and Israel this weekend. NBC News International Correspondent Raf Sanchez reports on what to expect.

Saudi Arabia's Ambitious Development Projects

Saudi Arabia plans to build an extravagant marina resort called Jaumur for superyachts, part of the Neom initiative. This controversial project is part of the country's Vision 2030 and has faced criticism for displacing local tribes and using lethal force. Other ambitious projects include The Line, a megastructure, and Neom, a futuristic city with flying taxis and a mirrored megastructure.

Controversy Surrounding Neom Megacity Project in Saudi Arabia

Saudi government allegedly ordered troops to kill indigenous people resisting eviction for Neom megacity project led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Human rights groups condemn forced evictions and killings, while project faces challenges in meeting ambitious goals.

Saudi Arabian Government Eviction Tactics for Neom Project

Former Saudi intelligence officer claims government is killing individuals for refusing eviction ahead of construction of futuristic eco-city. Neom project heavily funded by Western nations. Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman focuses on project, hoping for modernization of kingdom.

Saudi Crackdown on Critical Online Speech

Saudi fitness influencer Manahel al-Otaibi sentenced to 11 years in prison for challenging Saudi male guardianship laws and social media posts, part of a crackdown on critical online speech in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia sentences fitness influencer to 11 years in prison

Saudi Arabia sentences female fitness influencer to 11 years in prison for online activities that criticized the government and advocated for liberal dress codes and LGBTQ+ rights. The case highlights limits on freedom of expression in the country.

Saudi Arabia's Contribution to Polio Eradication

Saudi Arabia pledges $500 million to polio vaccination initiative in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to help eradicate polio in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative is $1.2 billion short of its budget for the next three years, facing challenges due to funding shortfall, economic slowdown, and security issues in polio hotspots.

Saudi Arabia's $500 Million Pledge to Polio Vaccination Initiative

Saudi Arabia pledged $500 million to a polio vaccination initiative in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The initiative aims to eradicate polio globally, with a focus on Afghanistan and Pakistan. Despite funding shortfalls, progress has been made in reducing polio cases worldwide.

Oil Prices and Political Influence

An MSNBC panel suggested that Russia and Saudi Arabia might be purposely driving up oil and gas prices to help Donald Trump politically. Gas prices have increased by approximately 6% in April, with concerns that the rise may continue beyond June.

Human Habitation in Lava Tubes in Saudi Arabia

Archaeologists have discovered evidence of human habitation within lava tubes in the deserts of northern Saudi Arabia, with findings dating back at least 7000 years. The underground tunnels provided shelter from the hot desert climate and are transforming understanding of the prehistory of the Arabian peninsula.

Rising Gas Prices and Political Influence

Stephanie Ruhle on MSNBC's '11th Hour' stated that rising gas prices are due to production cuts from Russia and Saudi Arabia who may want to benefit former President Donald Trump's 2024 presidential campaign.

Saudi Arabia's involvement in repelling an Iranian attack on Israel

Saudi Arabia helped a regional military coalition repel an Iranian attack against Israel, with 99% of Iranian drones and missiles destroyed. The Saudi Royal family had a system to intercept suspicious entities in its airspace. Iran instigated the Gaza war to thwart US efforts for a Saudi normalization deal.

Saudi Arabia's Economic Aid to Pakistan

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister visits Pakistan to help overcome economic crisis, with talks of investing $5 billion in the country. Pakistan is also in discussions with the IMF for a bailout.

Iran's Alleged Role in Gaza Conflict and Saudi-Israeli Relations

Unnamed Saudi official accuses Iran of engineering the war in Gaza to sabotage Saudi-Israeli relations. Saudi Arabia froze relations with Israel after Hamas attacks. Several countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, collaborated with the US and Israel to intercept Iranian attacks.

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 Projects

Saudi Arabia's ambitious plan to become the center of the world through the Vision 2030 projects, including building futuristic cities and skyscrapers, is facing setbacks and criticism due to unrealistic goals and reliance on oil. The flagship project, The Line, has been dramatically scaled back, and doubts have been raised about technology that is yet to be invented. The projects are struggling to attract foreign investors and facing criticism for human rights abuses. Despite the grand plans, there are concerns about the practicality and feasibility of these projects.

Saudi Arabia's Neom Project

Saudi Arabia has scaled back its ambitions for the Neom project, reducing the expected number of residents and completion timeline. Financial concerns and delays in budget approval signal challenges in achieving Vision 2030 goals.

Women's Tennis Association Finals in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia will host the Women's Tennis Association finals for the next three years with record prize money, despite concerns over the country's human rights record.

Trump venues hosting LIV Golf tournaments

Amateur golfers will play at Trump National Doral in Miami alongside professionals in a tournament hosted by LIV Golf, sponsored by Saudi Arabia. The Trump family's ties with Saudi Arabia and conflicts of interest are highlighted as they shift focus from city-center hotels to golf resorts. Despite declining city-center hotel business, Trump's golf courses have seen increased profits and international recognition through LIV Golf tournaments.

Former President Donald J. Trump's Conversation with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince

Former President Donald J. Trump spoke with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in their first publicly disclosed conversation since Trump left office. The discussion's details remain undisclosed, but it could impact Biden's negotiations with Saudi Arabia for Middle East peace.

Luxury Lagoon Resort in Saudi Arabia

Treyam in Saudi Arabia is a luxury lagoon resort that promises a unique experience bridging the desert and the sea with innovative design and sustainability focus.

Saudi Arabia's Chairmanship of the UN Commission on the Status of Women

Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the UN, Abdulaziz Alwasil, was elected as chair of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, sparking outrage from human rights groups due to Saudi Arabia's poor record on women's rights. The appointment was made without objection from other member states.

Saudi Arabia appointed chair of UN women's rights forum

Saudi Arabia appointed as chair of the United Nations' top forum for women's rights and gender equality, despite its poor record on women's rights. Human rights organizations criticize the decision, highlighting the country's discriminatory practices.

Association of Tennis Professionals bidding process for a tenth Masters 1000 event

The Association of Tennis Professionals is opening the bidding process for a tenth Masters 1000 event, potentially in the first week of the season, to allow other oil-rich states to compete with Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia had made a $1.3bn offer for this event and other tournament rights, but now other countries like Qatar, the UAE, and Tennis Australia have the opportunity to bid. The ATP aims to unify tennis through collaboration and fair representation.

Dragon Ball Theme Park in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund will build the world's first Dragon Ball theme park near Riyadh, including multiple attractions and themed experiences based on the popular franchise. The park will honor the legacy of Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, who passed away in March 2024.

Dragon Ball Theme Park in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia to build the world's first 'Dragon Ball' theme park near Riyadh, inspired by the popular comic series. The park will feature rides, attractions, hotels, and restaurants.

Saudi Arabia's $40 Billion Investment in Artificial Intelligence

The government of Saudi Arabia plans to create a $40 billion fund to invest in artificial intelligence, potentially partnering with Silicon Valley's Andreessen Horowitz. This move showcases the nation's global business ambitions and efforts to diversify its economy.

Criticism of Steven Mnuchin's Bid to Buy TikTok

Sen. Ron Wyden criticizes former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin over ties to Middle Eastern money in bid to buy TikTok from Chinese owner. Mnuchin assembling group of investors, including Saudi Arabia and other Gulf state governments. Wyden expresses concern over potential ownership by MAGA Trump crony backed by Saudi Arabia. Mnuchin faces scrutiny for potential fundraising on taxpayer's dime during final days in Trump administration.

Saudi Arabia's Mining Ambitions

Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy by investing in mining to extract over $2.5 trillion in metals, become a global minerals hub, and attract companies in EV and battery manufacturing. The kingdom's ambitious plans include joining the mainstays of oil, gas, and petrochemicals as part of its Vision 2030 effort.

PGA Tour and LIV Golf Series

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan expresses hope for deal with Saudi backers of renegade LIV Golf series. Golfer Scottie Scheffler comments on division in sport due to players defecting. Monahan confident in negotiating deal with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.

USCIRF Visit to Saudi Arabia

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom terminated a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia after USCIRF Chairman Abraham Cooper, an Orthodox rabbi, was asked to remove his kippah head covering. Cooper refused to comply, citing his religious beliefs.

Saudi Arabia's $2 Billion Offer to Merge Tennis Tours

Saudi Arabia has made a $2 billion offer to merge the men's and women's tennis tours, separate from the four grand slams. ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi is in talks with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) to create a new PIF Tour model which could potentially cause tension with the existing Premium Tour model. Gaudenzi is proposing a unified tennis commissioner for the ATP and WTA Tours.

American Diplomatic Trip to World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia

An American diplomatic trip to a World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia was cut short when authorities demanded a Jewish member of the group remove his religious head covering, which he refused to do, leading to discussions about religious freedom and antisemitism in the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman calls for end to 'heinous crimes' in Gaza

Saudi Arabia's King Salman calls for an end to 'heinous crimes' in Gaza in Ramadan message, urging the international community to intervene and establish safe humanitarian corridors.

Robot Gropes Woman at AI Event in Saudi Arabia

A robot named Mohammad groped a woman at an AI event in Saudi Arabia, sparking controversy and raising ethical concerns about integrating robots into everyday life.

Ukrainian President Zelensky's Visit to Saudi Arabia

Ukrainian President Zelensky visited Saudi Arabia, had a positive meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, discussed the 'Peace Formula' to end Russian invasion, talked about economic cooperation, and Saudi Arabia offered support for a 'Global Peace Summit' in Switzerland.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's Visit to Saudi Arabia

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy visited Saudi Arabia to push for a peace plan and the return of prisoners of war from Russia, with the support of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Underwater Communications Cable Attacks

Four underwater communications cables between Saudi Arabia and Djibouti have been struck out of commission, likely due to attacks by Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, causing a disruption in communications between Europe and Asia.