The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's strong condemnation of the Israeli occupation forces' demolition of buildings belonging to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of occupied East Jerusalem. In an official statement, the Kingdom affirmed that this action constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law.

Historical background and context of events

This escalation comes in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood, a persistent flashpoint, where dozens of Palestinian families face the threat of forced eviction to make way for Israeli settler organizations. These demolitions are part of a systematic policy aimed at altering the demographic character of occupied East Jerusalem. Targeting facilities belonging to UNRWA, the UN agency established in 1949 to provide assistance and protection to Palestinian refugees, is not only an attack on UN property but also a direct assault on the Palestinian presence and international humanitarian work in the city.

The importance of UNRWA's humanitarian role

UNRWA plays a vital role in providing essential services to millions of Palestinian refugees in the region, including education, healthcare, relief, and social services. The Kingdom affirmed in its statement its full support for the Agency in its noble humanitarian mission, stressing that targeting it exacerbates the suffering of the Palestinian people and undermines international efforts to deliver essential aid. The protection of relief organizations, their staff, and their premises is a fundamental principle of international norms and laws that must not be compromised.

Saudi call for international responsibility

The Kingdom reiterated its categorical rejection of ongoing Israeli violations and held the international community responsible for confronting these aggressive practices and Israel's approach of continuing its crimes against international aid organizations and the Palestinian people. Riyadh called for serious and effective steps to be taken to protect aid organizations and ensure their ability to carry out their work without hindrance, and to put an end to these violations that threaten security and stability in the entire region and undermine the chances of achieving a just and comprehensive peace.

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's sincere condolences and deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and to the people and government of the brotherly Islamic Republic of Pakistan, following the tragic fire that broke out in a shopping center in Karachi, resulting in deaths and injuries. This stance reaffirms the Kingdom's solidarity with Pakistan in times of hardship.

Background of the incident and historical relations

A fire broke out in a busy shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan's economic capital, causing significant casualties and property damage. Rescue and civil defense teams rushed to the scene to control the blaze and evacuate the injured, while local authorities launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and assign responsibility. Such incidents highlight the importance of safety standards in large commercial buildings.

The Saudi message of condolence reflects the depth of the historical and strategic relations that bind Riyadh and Islamabad. These relations are not limited to political and economic aspects, but extend to deeply rooted religious, cultural, and popular ties. The Kingdom has consistently stood by Pakistan in various crises, whether natural disasters or economic challenges, which represents a fundamental pillar of the two countries' foreign policy based on Islamic and fraternal solidarity.

The importance and impact of the Saudi position

On the diplomatic front, this gesture from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs is more than just a protocolary measure; it is a clear message of political and moral support for the Pakistani people and their leadership. It also reinforces the Kingdom's image as a leading nation in the Islamic world, one that pays close attention to the issues of its brothers and sisters and shares in their joys and sorrows. Such stances contribute to strengthening bilateral ties and coordinating common positions in regional and international forums.

This expression of condolence is expected to have a positive impact on the Pakistani people, who hold the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its leadership in high esteem. Solidarity during times of human tragedy strengthens the bonds between peoples and underscores that relations between nations are built not only on interests but also on shared human values ​​and noble principles.