Saudi Press

Saudi Arabia and the world
Friday, Jul 18, 2025

From Saudi Date Harvest to Turkish Military Secular Oath: Global Updates

Saudi Arabia braces for severe weather; thunderstorms and flash floods expected across multiple regions.
In Saudi Arabia's Al-Jouf region, Hilwah Al-Jouf dates stand as a cultural and economic treasure, with nearly one million palm trees producing over 43,000 tonnes annually. These dates are celebrated for their exceptional sweetness and deep-rooted cultural significance, contributing notably to local markets and festivals.

Transitioning now to Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to investigate military graduates who took a pro-secular oath during their graduation, labeling them as "opportunists." This move follows a graduation event at the Turkish Military Academy in Ankara where the valedictorian led 400 graduates in an oath to defend "a secular, democratic Turkiye," sparking debates on secularism within the military.

Over to Iraq, the UN's Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Daesh (UNITAD) is ending its mission on September 17 due to Baghdad's request. UNITAD's head cited "misunderstandings" with Iraqi authorities and evidence-sharing issues as reasons for the premature closure of their mission, which began in 2017 to investigate Daesh's crimes.

Shifting to culinary news, the Filipino root vegetable ube is making waves globally, featured in restaurants from Dubai to Los Angeles. Known for its sweet, earthy flavor, ube is integral to Filipino desserts and continues to showcase Filipino culture to international audiences through creative and delicious dishes.

In France, a new political chapter unfolds as President Emmanuel Macron's appointment of Michel Barnier as prime minister has divided public opinion. While 52 percent of citizens approve of Barnier's competence, 74 percent don't believe he will hold the position long, amid ongoing protests and the potential for a no-confidence motion after the recent snap elections.

Finally, Saudi Arabia is bracing for severe weather, with the Civil Defense warning of thunderstorms and variable rainfall from Monday to Friday across multiple regions. Areas such as Makkah, Riyadh, and Al-Baha may experience diverse weather conditions including rain, flash floods, and strong winds, urging residents to stay cautious.
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