Indonesia Cancels Hajj Pilgrimage, Citing Risks Of Travel During Pandemic
"Our religion teaches us that saving lives is an obligation. That is the consideration in this policy," Minister of Religious Affairs Fachrul Razi says.
Saudi Arabia
Migrants Are Among The Worst Hit By COVID-19 In Saudi Arabia And Gulf Countries
Even with stringent lockdowns, the coronavirus has spread through migrant communities in some Middle Eastern countries where foreign workers live in cramped quarters.
Saudi Arabia's Oil Tanker Flotilla Is Reaching The U.S., Despite Some Objections
At least 18 very large crude carriers, each carrying 2 million barrels of oil, are headed to the U.S. American shale producers and some lawmakers are worried.
Trump Steps In To Help Oil Industry Facing Its Own Coronavirus Crisis
The oil industry has faced reduced demand from coronavirus, made worse by a global price war. The Trump administration says it will help by buying up cheap oil for the nation's strategic reserve.
Oil Prices, Stocks Plunge After Saudi Arabia Stuns World With Massive Discounts
Oil prices dropped as much as 30% following the unexpected Saudi decision to cut prices and boost production. The move reflects the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus and its economic effects.
U.N. Urges Probe Of Reported Hacking Of Jeff Bezos' Phone By Saudi Arabia
U.N. human rights experts said they were gravely concerned by reports that a WhatsApp account held by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was used to hack The Washington Post owner's phone.
Defense Department To Overhaul Screening For Foreign Military Trainees
Officials said they want to "ensure the program continues." To that end, the department has reviewed "how we can use our resources to do enhanced vetting."
DOJ Says 21 Saudi Cadets Being Expelled From U.S. Over Extremist, Child Porn Content
The announcement comes a month after a Saudi national opened fire at a naval base in Pensacola, Fla., killing three sailors. Attorney General William Barr called the shooting an act of terrorism.
Saudi Arabia Sought Dialogue With Iran. Then The U.S.-Iranian Conflict Escalated
The U.S. killing of Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani has boosted Saudi fears about becoming embroiled in escalating U.S.-Iran tensions.
Saudi Arabia Sentences 5 People To Death For Khashoggi Killing
A State Dept. official called the verdicts "an important first step in holding those responsible for the terrible crime accountable." But a U.N. official called them a "mockery" of justice.