Germany holds 2 over military base attack plot for Russia

BERLIN: Two German Russian nationals have been arrested in Germany on suspicion of plotting sabotage attacks, including on US military facilities, in what officials called a serious effort to undermine military support for Ukraine. Authorities have searched the homes and workplaces of the two suspects who stand accused of working for a foreign secret service. … Read more

Saudi Shoura Council speaker holds meetings during official trip to Jordan

RIYADH: In a world fixated on beauty and aesthetic perfection, Saudi artist Asrar Al-Qarni is boldly producing anti-aesthetic and unsettling art. Through her work, the 33-year-old challenges traditional notions of beauty and protests conformity. She compels viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and explore darker aspects of society. This unconventional approach to art can be seen … Read more

Iran holds funeral for officers killed in embassy strike

UNITED NATIONS: International aid groups said on Thursday there is nothing more they can do to protect staff in the Gaza Strip and that it is up to Israel to avoid killing them as the United Nations appealed for direct humanitarian coordination with the Israeli military. Global outrage at the humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian … Read more

Oman’s general inflation index holds steady at 105.3 in February

RIYADH: Oman’s general inflation index remained stable at 105.3 in February compared to the same period in 2023, according to the latest official data.  The data from the National Center of Statistics and Information also highlighted that the inflation rate had decreased to 0.0 percent in February compared to 1.8 percent recorded in the corresponding … Read more

Saudi inflation holds steady at 1.8% in February: GASTAT 

RIYADH: Moody’s Investors Service has retained a positive outlook for Saudi Arabia’s banking sector thanks to the Kingdom’s economic diversification programs. In its latest report, the US-based credit rating agency said the demand for credit for government-backed projects will improve loan performance and generate strong profit for banks in Saudi Arabia. “The banks’ operating environment … Read more

Forsterling holds off Hull and Ciganda to win Aramco Team Series Tampa

RIYADH: There is an abiding enthusiasm for cricket in Saudi Arabia especially among expatriates from Asian nations already familiar with the game. Relatively new tournaments that have helped boost this enthusiasm include the Indian Premier League, the Pakistan Super League and the Bangladesh Premier League. Fans love watching the game with family and friends at … Read more

Saudi deputy FM attends Antalya Diplomacy Forum, holds meetings on behalf of crown prince

JEDDAH: Nestled in the heart of Jeddah’s historic district are heritage hotels launched by the Jeddah Historic District Program under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture and in partnership with Al-Balad Development Co. These hotels, including Beit Jokhdar, Beit Al-Rayess and Beit Kedwan, have been meticulously restored while preserving their architectural features to provide … Read more

Saudi Arabia’s inflation holds steady at 1.6% in January: GASTAT 

SINGAPORE: Oil prices fell on Thursday after a larger-than-expected jump in US crude inventories, raising concerns about demand in the world’s largest economy and top oil consuming nation, according to Reuters. Brent crude futures fell 34 cents, or 0.4 percent, to $81.26 a barrel at 6:37 a.m. Saudi time, while US West Texas Intermediate crude … Read more

Saudi defense minister holds bilateral meetings during counterterrorism talks in Riyadh

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman held talks on Saturday with the Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of Libya’s Government of National Unity Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, in Riyadh. Prince Khalid conveyed greetings to Dbeibeh from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The talks were held on the sidelines of … Read more

US Fed holds key rate steady for fourth straight meeting

WASHINGTON: The US Federal Reserve voted Wednesday to leave interest rates unchanged for a fourth straight meeting, but said the “risks to achieving its employment and inflation goals are moving into better balance.” The Fed has a dual mandate to keep both inflation and the unemployment rate low, and has been heavily focused on bringing … Read more