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Leaders
5 hours ago
- Politics
- Leaders
US Military Aircrafts Vanish from Qatar Base Amid Iran Tensions
Recent satellite images have revealed that a significant reduction in the number of US military aircraft at a major base in Qatar, indicating a strategic move to protect these assets from potential Iranian strikes. As tensions rise, Washington considers its response to the ongoing conflict between Tehran and Israel. Planet Labs PBC satellite images analyzed by AFP show that Nearly 40 planes, including C-130 transporters and reconnaissance jets, vanished between 5-19 June, leaving only three aircraft remaining visible. This drastic reduction raises questions about the US military's operational strategy in the region. Moreover, the US embassy in Qatar announced on Thursday restricting access to the base 'out of an abundance of caution and in light of ongoing regional hostilities.' The embassy urged personnel to 'exercise increased vigilance' amid escalating tensions. Additionally, the White House confirmed that US President Donald Trump will decide within the next two weeks whether to support Israel's strikes on Iran. If the US intervenes, the Islamic Republic may retaliate by targeting US bases throughout the region. Vulnerability of US Forces Mark Schwartz, a former lieutenant general in the US Army and defense researcher at the Rand Corporation, emphasized the vulnerability of personnel and aircraft at Al Udeid. He noted that the base's 'close proximity' to Iran poses significant risks. Schwartz explained that even minor damage could render aircraft 'non-mission capable.' The aircraft that have left the tarmac since early June may have been relocated to hangars or other bases in the region. A US defense official declined to discuss specific asset positioning but stated, 'We remain committed to maintaining operational security while executing our mission with the highest level of readiness, lethality, and professionalism.' Increased Military Mobilization US forces in the Middle East have mobilized since Israel's initial strikes on Iran nearly a week ago. An additional aircraft carrier is en route, and significant aircraft movements have occurred. An analysis of open-source data tracking aircraft positioning revealed that at least 27 military refueling planes traveled from the United States to Europe between 15-18 June. As of late Wednesday, 25 of these planes remained in Europe, with only two returning to American soil, underscoring the heightened state of alert in the region. The sudden aircraft withdrawal reflects Washington's balancing act: shielding assets while navigating Israel's conflict with Iran. As Trump weighs intervention, every strategic shift, from Qatar to Europe, highlights the stakes of avoiding direct confrontation in a volatile region. Short link : Post Views: 17
Leaders
5 hours ago
- Leaders
SBA Achieves Media Excellence in 1446 Hajj
The Saudi Broadcasting Authority (SBA) delivered extensive and high-quality media coverage during the 1446 Hajj season, showcasing Saudi Arabia's commitment to serving pilgrims. Through a multilingual, multi-platform approach, the SBA successfully communicated the spiritual and logistical significance of Hajj to audiences around the world. Over 850 professionals contributed to the operation, producing more than 800 hours of content across eight television and radio channels. The coverage was powered by 120 professional cameras stationed at key holy sites, supported by 25 satellite and live broadcast vehicles, and two mobile control centers. These resources enabled the production of over 700 news stories, more than 300 in-depth radio and TV reports, and the hosting of over 1,000 guests in live programs. The SBA's programming featured 55 dedicated shows focused on the Hajj experience, offering detailed insights into the rituals, sacred sites, and the services provided by various government and private sector entities. Digitally, the SBA reached new milestones—publishing over 8,900 posts across its platforms and generating more than 400 million views and impressions. With over 1 million interactions, the authority demonstrated its growing global digital influence and audience engagement. Related Topics: SBA Showcases Exceptional Media Coverage of Hajj Season 1446 A Saudi traveler travels around KSA with her husband on a motorbike SBA Explores AI Collaboration with SCAI to Advance Media Production Saudi Broadcasting Authority, Media Forum Participate in CABSAT 2025 in Dubai Short link : Post Views: 21
Leaders
5 hours ago
- Politics
- Leaders
Netanyahu: Iran's Leadership Fall Not Goal, But Possible Outcome
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Thursday that changing or toppling Iran's leadership is not Israel's primary objective. However, he acknowledged that such a change could occur as a consequence of Israel's actions. 'The matter of changing the regime or the fall of this regime is first and foremost a matter for the Iranian people. There is no substitute for this,' Netanyahu explained during an interview with Israel's Kan public television. Israel's Military Capabilities Netanyahu emphasized Israel's capability to eliminate all of Iran's nuclear facilities, regardless of US President Donald Trump's involvement. He made these remarks just before the White House announced that Trump would decide within two weeks whether to engage in the situation. Military analysts suggest that Israel may require US military bunker-busting bombs to effectively target the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant. This facility, considered the crown jewel of Iran's nuclear program, lies buried beneath a mountain near Qom. Netanyahu on US Involvement When asked if Israel could address the Fordow facility independently or with US assistance, Netanyahu responded, 'We have the power to remove all our targets, all their nuclear facilities. However, the president's decision on whether he wants to join or not is again his decision.' He added, 'He will do what is good for the United States, and I will do what is good for the State of Israel. Up to this moment, everyone is doing their part.' On Wednesday, Trump asserted that the United States alone possesses the capability to destroy or dismantle the Fordow facility. 'But that doesn't mean I'm going to do it – at all,' Trump stated, highlighting the complexities of the situation. Short link : Post Views: 8 Related Stories
Leaders
5 hours ago
- Business
- Leaders
Georgian Prime Minister Meets CEO of Saudi Fund for Development
Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, held a meeting with Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD). As part of his visit, Al-Marshad also met with key Georgian officials, including First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Levan Davitashvili, Minister of Finance Lasha Khutsishvili, and Minister of Infrastructure Revaz Sokhadze. The meetings centered on strengthening development cooperation between Georgia and the SFD. Discussions focused on supporting and financing projects across multiple sectors to drive growth and unlock strategic opportunities within the country. Related Topics : Saudi Arabia's Cultural Development Fund to Showcase Cultural Innovation at Expo 2025 Osaka A Look into the Tasks of Saudi National Development Fund Chambers Federation Discusses Launch of Georgian Bank in Saudi Arabia Saudi Crown Prince receives Georgia's Prime Minister in Riyadh in an official session of talks Short link : Post Views: 1 Related Stories
Leaders
5 hours ago
- Health
- Leaders
Health Ministry Unveils 'Biotech Accelerator' to Drive Innovation at BIO 2025
Vice Minister of Health for Planning and Development, Abdulaziz Al-Rumaih, announced at the 2025 BIO International Convention in Boston, USA, the launch of the Ministry of Health's new 'Biotech Accelerator' program for biotechnology startups. This initiative, developed in partnership with BioLabs, is designed to stimulate innovation, enhance international collaboration, and empower Saudi biotech companies to elevate healthcare services. This pioneering program—the first of its kind in the Kingdom and the first BioLabs partnership in the Middle East—supports the objectives of both the Health Sector Transformation Program and the National Biotechnology Strategy, key pillars of Saudi Vision 2030. These initiatives seek to cultivate a thriving society and dynamic economy while positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in health innovation. Running over seven months, the Biotech Accelerator will provide startups with comprehensive training, structured support tracks, and access to cutting-edge research laboratories. Related Topics : SFDA Boosts Cooperation with European Institute of Innovation and Technology Health Minister Inspects Arafat Field Hospital Ahead of Hajj Rituals Stride into Health: Saudi Launches 'Walk 30' Public Fitness Drive Makkah Municipality Issues Health Certificate Guidelines for Hajj Season 1446 Short link : Post Views: 5 Related Stories
