Latest news with #AsharqAl-Awsat
Iraqi News
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Iraqi News
PM: No Weapons outside State Authority — Iraqis' Interests are the Top Priority
Baghdad – INA Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani affirmed that the government will not tolerate the presence of weapons outside official state institutions, stressing that the interests of the Iraqi people remain a top priority. He also expressed Iraq's readiness to contribute to the reconstruction of Syria. In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, followed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Al-Sudani stated: 'Recent developments in the region compel us to define a vision for what we want. The region is facing an unprecedented situation, on the verge of a wider war. Iraq's interest comes first. We are a proactive part of the region, opposed to conflict, and committed to promoting security and stability.' He noted that Iraq filed an official complaint with the UN Security Council following the Zionist aggression on Iran and the violation of Iraqi airspace, emphasizing: 'We adhere to our constitution, which prohibits the use of Iraq or its airspace as a Launchpad for aggression. We maintain ongoing communication with the United States, particularly regarding airspace violations.' Al-Sudani clarified that Iran made no requests to Iraq during the war, stating: 'Iraq took the initiative to engage through official diplomatic channels. We support negotiations and have prevented emotional reactions from escalating into actions that could compromise Iraq's sovereignty and stability. Netanyahu has not abided by any truce—neither in Gaza nor Lebanon—so further aggression was to be expected.' He called for an inclusive political process in Syria that safeguards the rights of all communities and respects religious and national values, adding: 'We are ready to support Syria's reconstruction through Iraq's leadership of both the Arab and Development summits. We have launched an initiative under the Baghdad Declaration.' Al-Sudani underlined that the official position of the state on various issues is expressed through the government, the State Administration Coalition, and the Coordination Framework that formed the cabinet, affirming that 'Iraq's national interest is the foundation of any stance.' He noted the beginning of a genuine partnership with Turkey focused on security, economic cooperation, and water-related issues. Regarding relations with Iran, the Prime Minister said: 'Our ties with Iran are rooted in shared religious, social, and economic interests. Iran has stood by Iraq at critical junctures. We reject any claims of Iranian interference in Iraqi affairs. Iraq is independent and will not be subservient to anyone.' Reaffirming a firm stance on arms, he said: 'We will not accept any weapons outside the framework of state institutions. This is a principled position shared by all political forces. The religious authority has made its stance clear in this regard.' Al-Sudani also touched on the upcoming parliamentary elections, stating: 'There is a positive public perception of our coalition. We place our trust in the awareness of citizens and their ability to choose wisely.' He clarified that seeking a second term is not a personal ambition, but that a majority supports the continuation of the government's development-focused agenda, adding: 'Our political system since 2003 is built on a constitutional parliamentary framework, shared governance, and peaceful transfer of power. Iraqis are committed to this path.' He continued: 'The era of dictatorship was marked by killings, displacement, and egregious human rights violations. We are working to build a brighter future for the Iraqi people.' On economic development, Al-Sudani stated: 'Our investment climate is stable and secure. Despite regional instability, we've attracted investments worth $100 billion.' He affirmed the government's anti-corruption achievements, noting: 'Corruption has significantly declined under this administration. We've reformed oversight institutions and extradited individuals wanted on corruption charges, including some holding dual nationality.' Concluding the interview, Al-Sudani said: 'We draw inspiration from the legacy of the Imams of Ahl al-Bayt — their resistance to injustice, rejection of oppressive policies, and their sacrifices in service of the people.'
Days of Palestine
12-07-2025
- Politics
- Days of Palestine
Israeli Businessmen, Army Officers Run Good's Smuggling Network into Gaza
DayofPal– Despite a devastating war and one of the tightest sieges in modern history, banned Israeli goods continue to make their way into the Gaza Strip, raising serious questions about how they are getting in—and who profits along the way. From mobile phones, solar panels, and batteries to frozen meats, soft drinks, and even chocolates and potato chips, items deemed 'non-essential' or 'prohibited' by Israeli authorities are appearing in Gazan markets. The presence of such items, especially amid ongoing humanitarian restrictions, has ignited speculation and concern within both Gaza and Israel. Coordinated Smuggling Through Bribes Senior officers in Israeli army and Shin Bet are reportedly involved in allowing the entry of goods, currently banned, into the Gaza Strip in exchange for large bribes paid from the coordination fees. According to several Gaza-based traders who spoke anonymously to Asharq Al-Awsat, the process of smuggling involves high-level coordination between traders in Gaza and Israeli customs clearance companies, using intermediaries in Turkey and other countries. The cost of bringing in a single truck can range between 450,000 to 600,000 shekels (roughly $135,000–$180,000), which forces local traders to sell goods at inflated prices. One trader described how weapons-carrying groups or influential families are paid to protect these shipments, most of which are stored in central Gaza's Deir Al-Balah region. During a brief ceasefire in January, for example, the price of a single chocolate bar reached 100 shekels ($30), and a kilogram of frozen meat soared to 500 shekels ($150). Hamas Investigates Traders Security sources within Hamas confirmed to Asharq Al-Awsat that investigations were launched into several traders after discovering that some had unknowingly transported Israeli intelligence spy equipment concealed in their goods. In at least one case, surveillance devices were delivered to collaborators working with Israeli intelligence. Some traders were released after interrogation, while others were shot in the legs and warned against further involvement. Hamas also said that senior Israeli military and intelligence officials, including members of the Shin Bet (Shabak), have received bribes to facilitate the entry of prohibited goods. Israeli Businessmen Accused of Running Smuggling Ring Hebrew-language Channel 12 reported that two prominent Israeli businessmen, one a former Likud Knesset member and the other a deputy mayor of Kiryat Gat, Yigal Weinberger, were involved in smuggling operations. Under the cover of an international humanitarian organization, they sent about 80 aid trucks into Gaza, replacing food items with contraband such as cigarettes and shisha tobacco. The pair persuaded another businessman to invest 5 million shekels in the fake aid scheme with promises of high returns. When one truck was stopped by Israeli forces, it was discovered that the aid label had been misused without the knowledge of the actual humanitarian organization, which has since severed ties with the accused. The Israeli Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) has temporarily suspended the license of the implicated organization, pending further investigation. Institutional Corruption Hamas has also launched a deeper probe into potential collusion by international NGOs operating in Gaza. Some suspect that corruption at multiple levels, Israel is allowing banned goods to slip through, disguised as humanitarian aid. One trader admitted he used the coordination channel only once but stopped after receiving stern warnings from Hamas and facing enormous logistical costs. The limited volume of these shipments means most Gazans never see the contraband, which is sold at exorbitant prices in small, elite circles. Gaza's industrial and agricultural chambers recently issued a warning about rising offers from suspicious sources offering 'commercial coordination' services. These shadowy deals not only distort market prices but also burden an already devastated local economy. 'These types of arrangements significantly raise the cost of goods in local markets,' the statement read, 'at a time when citizens face extreme poverty, food insecurity, and economic collapse.' Shortlink for this post:
Saudi Gazette
06-07-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia issues new rules for food trucks, bans late-night sales
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majed Al-Hogail has approved new municipal requirements for mobile vending carts and food trucks. These include installing surveillance cameras inside the carts and prohibiting activities after 12:00 in the night. Owners of these vehicles are granted a correction period of 180 days, according to Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper. It is prohibited to practice this activity at traffic lights, intersections, entrances and exits to main and secondary roads, and areas with high traffic density. It will also prohibit sales at locations designated for police, traffic, Civil Defense, ambulances, and parking spaces for people with disabilities, as well as in areas not permitted by the municipality. Parking near sources of environmental pollutants, such as waste dumps, gas and smoke emissions, sewage sites, and others is also prohibited. Parking in front of emergency exits or evacuation assembly points near facilities, as well as near gas stations, is not allowed. Parking within residential neighborhoods is also prohibited. All activities will be prohibited after 12:00 AM unless there is a 24-hour permit. Smoking inside vehicles, loudspeakers, or mobile external speakers will also be prohibited. Vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers which are participating in events will be excluded from this requirement. Meals are prohibited from being prepared outside the cart. If charcoal or firewood is used for cooking, meals or beverages must be prepared in a separate cart. The provision of tobacco products of all kinds is also prohibited. Food establishments must adhere to the activities, instructions, and executive and technical regulations issued by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. They must also install surveillance cameras in the cart in accordance with the Law of the Use of Security Surveillance Cameras and its executive regulations. Individuals are also entitled to issue one license for a mobile cart, trailer, or semi-trailer across the Kingdom. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing noted that the draft municipal requirements for mobile carts were made public through the "Istithlaa" platform from May 13-28, for the purpose of public survey and feedback prior to approval and implementation. The new terms and conditions aim to regulate this sector, encourage investment, and facilitate requirements for investors and beneficiaries. This step will provide an appropriate regulatory environment for commercial investment, control development, and increase compliance rates. This will have a positive impact on food safety and preserve community health. It also aims to assist those wishing to invest in this field and regulate mobile health, food, and non-food commercial activities by identifying appropriate locations for their activities and raising food safety standards. According to the new requirements, the procedures for issuing, renewing, amending, and canceling licenses will be in accordance with the Municipal Licensing Procedures System and its implementing regulations. Approval from the General Traffic Department and the entity supervising the activity will be required if it is essential to run the activity.
Saudi Gazette
06-07-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Surveillance cameras must for mobile vending carts
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majed Al-Hogail has approved new municipal requirements for mobile vending carts and food trucks. These include installing surveillance cameras inside the carts and prohibiting activities after 12:00 in the night. Owners of these vehicles are granted a correction period of 180 days, according to Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper. It is prohibited to practice this activity at traffic lights, intersections, entrances and exits to main and secondary roads, and areas with high traffic density. It will also prohibit sales at locations designated for police, traffic, Civil Defense, ambulances, and parking spaces for people with disabilities, as well as in areas not permitted by the municipality. Parking near sources of environmental pollutants, such as waste dumps, gas and smoke emissions, sewage sites, and others is also prohibited. Parking in front of emergency exits or evacuation assembly points near facilities, as well as near gas stations, is not allowed. Parking within residential neighborhoods is also prohibited. All activities will be prohibited after 12:00 AM unless there is a 24-hour permit. Smoking inside vehicles, loudspeakers, or mobile external speakers will also be prohibited. Vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers which are participating in events will be excluded from this requirement. Meals are prohibited from being prepared outside the cart. If charcoal or firewood is used for cooking, meals or beverages must be prepared in a separate cart. The provision of tobacco products of all kinds is also prohibited. Food establishments must adhere to the activities, instructions, and executive and technical regulations issued by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. They must also install surveillance cameras in the cart in accordance with the Law of the Use of Security Surveillance Cameras and its executive regulations. Individuals are also entitled to issue one license for a mobile cart, trailer, or semi-trailer across the Kingdom. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing noted that the draft municipal requirements for mobile carts were made public through the "Istithlaa" platform from May 13-28, for the purpose of public participation and feedback prior to approval and implementation. The new terms and conditions aim to regulate this sector, encourage investment, and facilitate requirements for investors and beneficiaries. This step will provide an appropriate regulatory environment for commercial investment, control development, and increase compliance rates. This will have a positive impact on food safety and preserve community health. It also aims to assist those wishing to invest in this field and regulate mobile health, food, and non-food commercial activities by identifying appropriate locations for their activities and raising food safety standards. According to the new requirements, the procedures for issuing, renewing, amending, and canceling licenses will be in accordance with the Municipal Licensing Procedures System and its implementing regulations. Approval from the General Traffic Department and the entity supervising the activity will be required if it is essential to run the activity.
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First Post
30-06-2025
- Politics
- First Post
West Asia News Live: Saudi foreign minister receives written message from Russian counterpart
June 30, 2025, 06:30:19 (IST) Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Saudi foreign minister receives written message from Russian counterpart Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister has received a written message from his Russian counterpart, which was delivered by the Russian Ambassador to the Kingdom, as per a report in Asharq Al-Awsat. The communication reportedly focused on strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries and coordinating on various issues of mutual concern. This diplomatic exchange highlights the ongoing high-level engagement between Riyadh and Moscow, who are key partners in the OPEC+ alliance.
