“I was the closest person to Charlie”: Candace Owens makes explosive claims about Charlie Kirk amid growing controversy

Candace Owens has sparked fresh controversy by claiming Charlie Kirk was unaware of important details during his relationship with Erica Kirk. She alleged that Erica misrepresented her ties to Kanye West’s circle, raising questions about credibility and hidden truths. The comments have sparked intense online debate, with critics demanding evidence while supporters citing Owens’ closeness to her claims as a reason to take them seriously.

Candace Owens has started another online scandal with her comments about suspicious behavior of people close to her Kanye West. His statements have been rapidly circulated on social media and have drawn mixed reactions from supporters and detractors, placing him in doubt. What is most surprising is the confidence that Owens is able to convey in her descriptions, which highlights the fact that she is very close to the people she is writing about. She presents her arguments as a matter of personal experience rather than speculation; This has increased public criticism. As the debate heats up, audiences find themselves torn between her claims and the need for verifiable facts and the debate has become a broader debate on truth, impact and credibility.

Candace Owens doubles down on claims, sparking intense online debate

Owens’ comments have sparked widespread discussion, largely due to the detailed and personal tone she uses to explain her stance. She did not hold back, outlining her belief that key information had been hidden, suggesting a deeper story beneath the surface.Here Candace Owens said, “It’s my personal opinion that there was a deal. When I look at the evidence, when I look at everything, I see it when I see how duplicitous she was and I know Charlie didn’t know these things because I was there. I was the closest person to Charlie.”She continued, “When he was dating, he was just starting to date Erica. Well, no one spent much time with her or talked to her much. He didn’t know these things about Erica Kirk or that Erica Franz Fey was her name at the time. We didn’t know she was telling people that she knew people who were around Kanye when he sent out the tweet that something wasn’t right. We all know something isn’t right. And I’m just amazed at the people who are going to pretend like it’s all perfectly normal.”The power of his words has sparked a larger conversation about influence, perception, and credibility in high-profile circles. Critics say these types of claims require solid evidence, especially when they involve more than one person and their reputation. However, supporters say his proximity to the situation makes his claims more credible.Essentially, this ongoing debate reflects a tension that is common in today’s media. Personal testimony can be powerful, but it can also make people overly skeptical. With more people joining the conversation, the focus has now shifted to whether new evidence will emerge or whether it is still a battle of stories based on opinion and public perception.

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1,300 years of Islamic history in one place: inside Saudi Arabia’s Othman bin Affan Mosque in Jeddah world News

1,300 years of Islamic history in one place: inside Saudi Arabia's Othman bin Affan Mosque in Jeddah
Othman Bin Affan Mosque/Image: SPA

Nestled among the narrow medieval streets in historic Jeddah, the Othman bin Affan Mosque offers a rare, layered look into the city’s past. Fresh excavations at the site have revealed more than 1,300 years of continuous history, linking early Islamic foundations to global trade routes and evolving architectural traditions, the Saudi Press Agency reports.

a foundation from the beginning islam And Jeddahrise of

The Othman bin Affan Mosque dates back to 33 AH (654 CE), making it one of the oldest archaeological and religious sites in Jeddah. Its historical significance is directly linked to Caliph Othman bin Affan, who designated Jeddah as the primary Islamic port. This decision turned the city into a major gateway for pilgrims to Mecca as well as a center of maritime trade.Situated along ancient paths and surrounded by traditional buildings, the mosque has been in continuous use for over 1,300 years. This uninterrupted use highlights not only its religious significance, but also its role in the everyday life of the city over the centuries.The mosque’s endurance reflects how Jeddah has evolved along with it, growing from an early Islamic settlement into a thriving port city that connects different regions of the world.

Layers of history in the major Islamic empires

Recent excavations have revealed that the mosque has several historical layers, each dating to the major Islamic periods. These layers confirm that the site remained active in:

  • Umayyad Caliphate (661–750 CE/beginning 41 AH)
  • Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258 AD)
  • Mamluk Sultanate (1250–1517 CE/until 923 AH)

Overall, these periods extend from 41 AH (661 CE) to 923 AH (1517 CE), representing almost a thousand years of continuous development and use.During the Umayyad period, early coral-stone foundations and port-related development supported increasing numbers of pilgrims and traders. This was a time when Islamic rule expanded rapidly, spreading from Spain to India, and Jeddah began to establish itself as a major maritime centre.Under the Abbasids, often referred to as the Islamic Golden Age, the region saw advances in science, knowledge, and infrastructure. Evidence from the mosque, including glass lamps and aqueduct channels, suggests improvements in both mihrabs and water systems. These developments indicate that Jeddah was not only a trade center but also part of a broader intellectual and cultural network across the Red Sea.The Mamluk era brought further changes. The Mamluks, known for their military strength and control over trade routes, strengthened Jeddah’s fortifications. Discoveries from this period, including the import of ebony from Ceylon and ceramic fragments, point to increased commercial activity and long-distance trade. During this time the mosque developed as a flexible structure within a fortified and economically active port city.

Evidence of global trade and advanced engineering

One of the most important findings from the excavation is a sophisticated water system approximately 800 years old. The system reflects advanced engineering techniques used to manage water resources in coastal environments, indicating a high level of urban planning and technical knowledge.Equally remarkable are the rare ebony columns found in the mihrab. Scientific analysis has discovered these materials in ancient Ceylon, present-day Sri Lanka, providing clear evidence of Jeddah’s historical maritime trade ties in the Indian Ocean.The discovery of early Chinese porcelain among the thousands of artifacts recovered from the site has further strengthened this narrative. These objects confirm that Jeddah was part of a vast trade network connecting the Middle East to Asia.Overall, these findings show that the mosque was more than a place of worship. It serves as a point within a wider system of trade, travel and cultural exchange, reflecting the city’s importance on global maritime routes.

ebony

Ebony Pillar/Image: SPA

Architectural development in seven stages

The mosque has gone through seven distinct architectural phases, all of which are now digitally documented. This detailed documentation provides information on how the structure adapted over time in response to changing needs and influences.The construction techniques seen in these phases highlight traditional coastal construction methods, including:

  • Use of coral stone as primary material
  • Integration of wooden structural elements
  • Design adjustments to suit humidity and coastal weather conditions

Each phase represents a stage in the mosque’s development, whether through expansion, repair or adaptation. These changes reflect both functional needs and the influence of different historical periods.Digital preservation of these stages ensures that the architectural history of the mosque is recorded in detail, allowing researchers and visitors to better understand its transformation over the centuries.

A living heritage site in modern Jeddah

Today, the Othman Bin Affan Mosque serves as both a place of worship and a cultural landmark. It has become a major destination on Jeddah’s cultural routes, attracting visitors interested in the city’s history and heritage.The site blends Islamic history with contemporary cultural activities, creating a space where the past is actively preserved while remaining relevant to the present. This approach supports broader efforts to preserve the architectural identity and historical heritage of the state.What makes the mosque particularly important is its continuity. It is not a relic that has been discarded or cast aside. Instead, it remains an active part of the city, carrying on a heritage dating back more than 1,300 years.

An ongoing story of faith, business and urban life

The discoveries at the Othman bin Affan Mosque offer a detailed account of the development of Jeddah. From its early days as a designated Islamic port to its role in global trade networks, the mosque reflects the city’s evolution over the centuries.From the coral stone foundation to the imported ebony and porcelain, each layer exposed adds to the story. It shows how religion, commerce and daily life merged in one place, shaping both the mosque and the city around it.In simple words, this place is a living record of history. It links early Islamic foundations with medieval trade routes and modern conservation efforts, making it one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Jeddah today.

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What’s wrong with America’s morality? New Pew Research study reveals shocking insights into the American mind. world News

What's wrong with America's morality? New Pew Research study reveals shocking insights into the American mind

While the country’s leaders keep waging one war after another and people keep fighting over ideologies on X (formerly Twitter), a new Pew Research Center The study exposed the changing foundation of American morality. On March 19, 2026, the Center asked ‘What do Americans consider immoral?’ Released a research titled. Instead of focusing on the universal taboos of theft and murder, two surveys conducted in 2025 asked about the morality of 15 widely debated behaviors in society, ranging from the death penalty to viewing pornography. What the answers revealed was a nation that is deeply illiberal yet paradoxically divided.

united on fraud

In a rare moment of national consensus, Americans found a unique “villain”: having an extramarital affair. Nine out of ten American adults claimed that it is morally wrong for married people to have affairs. Of the 15 parameters used to evaluate America’s morality, fraud was the only thing the entire country agreed to condemn, considering other factors included the death penalty, beating children, marijuana use, gambling, and more.

Partisan divide: two different Americas

Another surprising insight into the research was the difference in morality between Republicans and Democrats in the country. In the Republican mindset, abortion (71%), homosexuality (59%), viewing pornography (65%), and getting divorced (33%) were morally wrong. However, Democrats viewed morality through the lens of social equality, rating the extremely wealthy (29%), beating children (35%), and the death penalty (48%) as morally wrong. In the survey, viewing pornography (52%), having an abortion (47%), homosexuality (39%), and getting divorced (23%) were considered morally wrong, reflecting a large consensus with the political leadership and showing how ideals at the top filter down to the bottom. Under the Trump administration, it appears the red pill was more widely taken than the blue pill.

crisis of confidence

Despite political rhetoric portraying a ‘Golden Age’, America’s internal social fabric appears to be coming apart. The survey revealed that Americans view each other with suspicion, distrust and are critical of their fellow citizens. Only 47% of Americans view other Americans as morally good, while 53% say the morality and ethics of their fellow Americans is “somewhat or very bad.” This makes the United States a global leader; In almost every other country surveyed in 2025, citizens were more likely to view their fellow residents as inherently good.

American men need an awakening

The research also highlights a friction point between the sexes, particularly around family and reproductive issues.Getting a divorce (28%), having an abortion (51%), and using in vitro fertilization to get pregnant (11%) were more likely to be considered morally wrong by men than women. About 43% of men also thought that homosexuality was morally wrong. However, according to him, gambling, drinking and watching pornography were morally correct. In contrast, 58% of women take a strong stance on viewing pornography, compared to 47% of men, calling it morally wrong. Currently, America is not only “becoming more liberal” or “moving to the right” but seems to be dividing into sections hidden under the guise of unity by a layered Republican fabric.

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Saudi Arabia, Egypt sign deal to waive short-term visas for official passport holders. world News

Saudi Arabia, Egypt sign deal to waive short-term visas for official passport holders
Saudi Arabia and Egypt sign visa waiver agreement/Image: SPA

Saudi Arabia and Egypt have signed an agreement to exempt official passport holders from short-term visa requirements, with the aim of easing travel and strengthening cooperation between the two countries.The agreement was signed in Riyadh by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Dr. Badr Abdellatty, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Diaspora. This applies to holders of diplomatic, special and service passports issued by both governments.Under the new arrangement, eligible travelers will be able to move between Saudi Arabia and Egypt without the need to obtain a short-term visa, simplifying procedures for official visits and events. This relaxation is expected to benefit government officials and representatives who frequently travel for diplomatic, administrative and institutional purposes.The agreement comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relations between Riyadh and Cairo, reflecting a shared interest in deepening cooperation in a number of areas. By removing administrative barriers, both countries aim to facilitate seamless communication and coordination at official levels.The move also signals a broader commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, with both sides continuing to explore initiatives that support closer cooperation and more efficient exchanges between their institutions.

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‘What has Iran done for Islamic causes?’: Saudi slams Tehran after attacks on energy sites

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Iran continues to target energy sites: Major Kuwait oil refinery on fire again after drone attack

Iran continues to target energy sites: Major Kuwait oil refinery on fire again after drone attack
Symbolic photo- oil facility in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates (AP)

Kuwait said its Mina al-Ahmadi oil refinery was again targeted by Iranian drones on Friday, causing fires at several units. The same refinery was attacked a day earlier also.Friday’s attack came at a time when Eid al-Fitr was being celebrated in Kuwait. Officials said firefighters were working to bring the latest blaze under control, and there were no immediate reports of any injuries. The attack is part of a broader escalation as Iran has stepped up attacks on energy facilities in the Gulf following Israel’s bombing of its South Pars gas field earlier this week.

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Iran burns Saudi, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE in latest attacks; Drones, missiles fly across the Gulf. Watch

Although Trump said Israel would not launch more attacks, Iran’s attacks on oil infrastructure continue. On Thursday, Iran targeted liquefied natural gas facilities in Qatar and attacked Saudi Aramco’s SAMREF refinery in Saudi Arabia.Trump has also warned that the United States will respond if Iran continues attacking energy sites in the region. He said, “I do not want to authorize this level of violence and destruction because it will have a long-term impact on the future of Iran.”The conflict has disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a major global route for oil and gas. This has driven up energy prices and hit the economies of Asia, Europe and Africa, which depend on these supplies.

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Eid Al Fitr 2026: Saudi Arabia announces prayer timings, check city-wise schedule. world News

Eid Al Fitr 2026: Saudi Arabia announces prayer timings, check city-wise schedule
Mecca/Representative Image

Saudi Arabia has announced Eid Al Fitr 2026 prayer times in its major cities, with authorities urging worshipers to arrive early and follow guidelines to ensure smooth and orderly celebrations. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance outlined the schedule of Eid prayers, which will be celebrated at different times across the kingdom depending on the local sunrise.

  • Mecca – 6:39 am
  • Medina – 6:40 am
  • Riyadh – 6:12 am
  • Dammam – 5:58 am
  • Buraidah – 6:23 am
  • Jai- 6:32 am
  • Tabuk – 6:52 am
  • Abha – 6:29 am
  • Jazan – 6:29 am
  • Najran – 6:22 am
  • Al-Baha – 6:33 am
  • Arar – 6:35 am
  • Sakaka – 6:38 am

The ministry has advised worshipers to follow the rules of the mosque and the designated prayer venue, and highlighted the importance of arriving early to support better organization during the busy Eid period and manage crowds effectively. The announcement comes at a time when preparations for Eid Al Fitr have intensified across the kingdom, with officials extending greetings on the auspicious occasion and expressing hope that the good deeds of Ramadan will be acknowledged.

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US attacks Iran’s Karaj surface-to-surface missile facility; Satellite photos show before and after the impact

The United States has attacked an Iranian missile manufacturing facility in Karaj as part of its ongoing military campaign, “Operation Epic Fury”, with satellite imagery indicating widespread damage to the site.In a post on X, US CENTCOM said: “Prior to Operation Epic Fury, the Iranian regime used the Karaj surface-to-surface missile plant to assemble ballistic missiles, threatening Americans, neighboring countries, and commercial shipping. A March 1, 2026 image shows the plant before the U.S. strikes. A March 11, 2026 image, after U.S. forces attacked the facility with precision weapons Shows the same place.”Satellite images released with the statement showed that structures visible on March 1, including long assembly halls and supporting buildings at the Karaj plant, were reduced to debris by March 11, with many buildings completely collapsed.

First

The extent of the damage suggests that the facility is no longer operational. The attacks appear to have been precisely targeted, with no impact visible beyond the site in the available frames.

after

The development comes amid a broader US campaign against Iran that includes counter-proliferation strikes, maritime security operations and cyber and electronic warfare efforts, along with coordination with allies to destroy Iran’s fighting capabilities. As part of these operations, the US has also deployed B-1 bombers using 5,000-pound warheads to target threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.The strategic waterway, which handles about 20% of global oil shipments, has been affected by the ongoing conflict. Several countries, including the UK, France, the Netherlands, Italy and Japan, have expressed willingness to support efforts aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the area.Military assessments based on open-source data show that Iran’s missile launch capability has declined significantly since late February. According to Gulf News, estimates indicate cumulative launches of about 1,100 to 1,700 missiles, with an initial increase of over 400 on the first day, followed by a decline of 86–94% in early March and lower daily figures. Analysts say this reduction points to a “harassment-level” capability, with sporadic missile launches likely to be hampered by the low number of operational launchers and low production capacity. Continued American and Israeli air operations are seen as contributing to this decline.However, the risk remains. Iran is believed to maintain a diffuse network of facilities and capabilities, including proxy forces and cyber equipment, that can be used in a response below the level of conventional war.Meanwhile, Israel launched fresh strikes on Tehran early Friday after Iran fired missiles overnight. The Israeli military said its forces had “launched a wave of strikes targeting the infrastructure of the Iranian terrorist regime in Tehran”, without giving further details, AFP reported.Officials caution that these assessments are based on publicly available information and may be affected by the “fog of war”, meaning actual figures may differ. Nonetheless, current trends indicate a continued decline in Iran’s missile capabilities unless there is a cessation of hostilities.

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US loses 16 aircraft, including 10 Reaper drones, amid Iran conflict: Report

The US Air Force suffered a crushing defeat as Washington lost 16 aircraft in the Iran war.

representative image

At least 16 US military aircraft have been destroyed since the conflict with Iran began, including 10 MQ-9 Reaper drones shot down by enemy fire, while several others have been damaged in strikes and operational incidents, according to officials cited by Bloomberg.The most serious losses were attributed to accidents, including three American F-15 fighters shot down by friendly fire in Kuwait and a KC-135 refueling tanker destroyed during a mid-air operation, killing all six crew members. Five additional KC-135 aircraft reportedly damaged in Iranian missile attack on a base saudi arabia.

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The US Air Force suffered a crushing defeat as Washington lost 16 aircraft in the Iran war.

So far, only uncrewed Reaper drones have been downed by Iranian air defenses, at least nine of which have been destroyed in flight. Another was shot down by a ballistic missile at an airfield in Jordan. Two more died in accidents. Drones are designed to be expendable and are often deployed in high-risk environments due to their low cost and lack of onboard pilots.The scale of US operations may contribute to losses. Analysts claimed that the number of sorties flown in the initial phase of the war was greater than those flown during the beginning of the Gulf War. “The difference may be a much higher rate of effort,” Peter Layton said as quoted by Bloomberg.Despite early efforts to neutralize Iran’s air defenses, achieving complete air superiority has proven difficult. A US F-35 fighter jet was recently forced to make an emergency landing at a regional airport after being hit by Iranian fire, although the pilot survived, CNN reported, quoting a CENTCOM official.US military officials acknowledge that only “localized air superiority” has been established over parts of Iranian airspace, highlighting ongoing operational challenges. The continued presence of active air defenses is also complicating efforts to secure key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.Analysts say accidents are not uncommon during high-intensity operations. Justin Bronk said, “Periodic accidents like the tragic mid-air collision with the KC-135 are an unfortunate possibility in large, high-speed, high-pressure combat missions.”As the war enters its third week, Iran has maintained a steady pace of regional attacks, including attacks on energy infrastructure in Qatar and Saudi Arabia in retaliation for attacks on its South Pars gas field.

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After attack on Israel gas field, Iran attacks Gulf energy sites, world feels the heat

Second ship hit by missile in Gulf waters as Iran steps up attacks in retaliation for gas facility attack

Iran stepped up its attacks on oil and natural gas facilities around the Gulf on Thursday, increasing the risk of war that could send a blow to the global economy.The strikes in response to an Israeli attack on a key Iranian gas field sent fuel prices soaring and threatened to draw Iran’s Arab neighbors into direct conflict. Global supplies are already under pressure from Tehran’s targeting of energy production because of Iran’s stranglehold over the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil is transported.

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Second ship hit by missile in Gulf waters as Iran steps up attacks in retaliation for gas facility attack

Iran targeted energy facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the UAE. An Iranian missile attack also hit Israel’s oil refineries in the northern port city of Haifa.Underscoring the danger to ships in the region, a ship was set on fire off the coast of the United Arab Emirates and another ship was damaged near Qatar. Efforts to bypass the strait were also under pressure: an Iranian drone hit a Saudi Arabian refinery in the Red Sea, which the country was hoping to use as an alternative exit route.

Iran attacks Gulf energy sites after attack on Israel gas field; the world feels warm

Brent crude oil, the international standard, reached $118 a barrel, up more than 60% since Israel and the US began the war. The European benchmark for natural gas prices rose 17% on Thursday and have doubled in the past month. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant said Thursday that the United States could lift sanctions on Iranian oil stuck in tankers to help increase global supply and lower prices.Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE condemned the Iranian attacks. Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit called these a “dangerous escalation”.But Iran showed no signs of backing down. QatarEnergy’s CEO and minister of state for energy told Reuters the attacks have damaged 17% of Qatar’s LNG export capacity, causing an estimated $20 billion loss in annual revenue and threatening supplies to Europe and Asia. Saudi Arabia said its SAMREF refinery in the Red Sea port city of Yanbu had been affected.Iran also targeted two refineries in Kuwait and gas operations in Abu Dhabi, local officials said. In Israel, more than a half-dozen waves of Iranian attacks targeting large parts of the country sent millions of people into shelters. The attacks caused damage to buildings. An Iranian missile attack hit Israel’s oil refineries in the northern port city of Haifa but did not cause “significant damage,” Israel’s energy ministry said Thursday.In Washington, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters that the US military “controls the destiny” of Iran. “Iran has the ability to make the right choice,” he said. He further said that Tehran should not “go further and target Arab allies, Arab countries, that are trying to cause pain, pain that they themselves have caused.”Israel said on Thursday it struck Iranian targets in the Caspian Sea for the first time. Israeli military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said the strikes hit dozens of targets, including ships, a shipyard and a command center.The Trump administration has cited various war objectives, including reducing Iran’s missile capabilities. Hegseth said Thursday that more leaders could be targeted, specifically mentioning the IRGC and the Basij force, whose leader was killed by Israel earlier this week. “The last job anyone in the world wants right now is senior IRGC or Basij leaders, temporary jobs, all of that,” Hegseth said.

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Inside the Riyadh meeting: who was present; What did Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Turkey, other Arab and Muslim ministers agree on amid Iran vs US-Israel war?

'What has Iran done for Islamic causes?': Saudi slams Tehran after attacks on energy sites

Top Arab and Muslim ministers meet in Riyadh as Iran vs US-Israel war threatens to escalate

As the Iran vs. US-Israel war intensifies and missile attacks occur across the Gulf, a high-level diplomatic gathering in Riyadh has emerged as a defining moment in the region’s response. Foreign ministers from more than a dozen Arab and Muslim countries convened in the Saudi capital for urgent talks not only to respond to the crisis but also to shape a collective stance on Iran’s actions, regional security and the future of diplomacy in the Middle East.The result was a carefully calibrated message to condemn tensions, protect sovereignty but avoid widespread war.

Who was in the Riyadh meeting? saudi arabia, united arab emirates, QueueEgypt, Turkey, Pakistan, Others

Foreign ministers from a wide range of regional and allied countries gathered in Riyadh for the high-level meeting, reflecting the scale of concern over the ongoing conflict. Representatives from Qatar, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates were present, according to a joint statement issued on Thursday. The diversity of attendees underlined how widely the effects of the war are being felt, ranging from direct military threats and the risk of missile debris to disruptions in energy supplies and fears of mass displacement if tensions escalate.

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‘What has Iran done for Islamic causes?’: Saudi slams Tehran after attacks on energy sites

The meeting brought together ministers from these countries, marking one of the most significant diplomatic alignments since the conflict began. At the heart of the discussion was a shared concern that the war is no longer controlled, civilians and energy infrastructure are being targeted and the risk of full-scale regional conflict is increasing. In a joint stance, the participating countries condemned Iran’s recent attacks across the region, particularly attacks on energy facilities and critical infrastructure such as airports. The language was strong but measured. Rather than calling for retaliation, the ministers focused on de-escalation and stability, indicating a collective desire to prevent the crisis from escalating further.

Iran in focus, delicate balance continues israel: condemnation without full stop

The most important aspect of the Riyadh meeting was the frank but controlled criticism of Iran. The ministers described the attacks as unacceptable and stressed that the sovereignty of nations must be respected, civilian infrastructure must not be targeted and that the escalation threatens regional and global stability. At the same time, the statement fell short of completely isolating Iran diplomatically. This reflects a broader regional reality that despite rising tensions, many countries are reluctant to completely sever ties. tehranBelieving that negotiations are necessary to avoid widespread war.Interestingly, the meeting also discussed Israel’s role in the conflict but in a much more restrained manner. While there was some criticism over Israeli actions in the region, ministers largely avoided directly addressing Israeli attacks on Iran, choosing instead to remain focused on immediate regional stability. This selective emphasis highlights the complex diplomatic balancing act between condemning Iran’s attacks, avoiding escalating tensions with Israel, and maintaining room for broader dialogue. In short, the meeting was less about assigning blame and more about preventing further progress.

Energy security and right to self-defense take center stage at Riyadh meeting

One of the most urgent concerns discussed was the threat to the global energy infrastructure. Recent attacks on gas facilities, oil refineries and shipping routes have raised even greater concern middle east. Ministers warned that continued targeting of energy sites could disrupt global supply chains, drive up oil and gas prices and cause macroeconomic instability. Given that the Gulf region supplies a significant portion of the world’s energy, the message was that this is no longer just a regional conflict; This is a global risk.The joint discussions also reaffirmed a key principle that states have the right to defend themselves under international law. This was not just a legal statement but a strategic signal. By emphasizing self-defense, ministers justified possible defensive actions, warned against further attacks, and strengthened collective security. At the same time, he stopped supporting offensive countermeasures, and again emphasized control over confrontation.

Widespread call to reduce tension in Riyadh meeting

Beyond the immediate reactions, the Riyadh meeting sent a broader diplomatic message that the region cannot sustain a prolonged war, negotiations must remain open and escalating tensions will not benefit anyone. This is in line with ongoing international efforts to bring the parties back to the negotiating table, even as fighting continues. Previous diplomatic activities in the region have similarly emphasized the need to avoid conflict and prioritize dialogue, highlighting a consistent theme in recent geopolitical efforts.The Riyadh meeting comes at a moment of extreme tension, with missile attacks, emergency alerts and energy disruptions making headlines. Bringing together multiple Arab and Muslim countries suggests a coordinated regional response, not isolated responses. The outcome reflects a nuanced position as it was firm on sovereignty, cautious if tensions escalated and open to diplomacy because what happens in the Gulf affects oil prices, global markets and international security.The Riyadh meeting also reflects a deeper reality that the Middle East is entering a new phase of instability. Recent developments have shown that conflicts are crossing borders, economic objectives are becoming military objectives and civilian infrastructure is becoming increasingly vulnerable. In this environment, diplomacy is not only important but also necessary.Perhaps the most important takeaway from the meeting is a sense of collective urgency. Despite political differences, historical rivalries and varying alliances, Arab and Muslim nations have come together to send a unified message that the escalation of tensions must stop. However, this unity is fragile. Balancing relations with Iran, managing relations with global powers, and addressing internal security concerns will continue to test regional cohesion.

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