Saudi Press

Saudi Arabia and the world
Thursday, Dec 18, 2025

Palestinian Government Condemns Netanyahu's Map Exclusion Amid Jenin Destruction; Virgin Atlantic Introduces Riyadh-London Flights; Al Hilal Invests in Brazilian Talent; Adele Announces Career Break; Environmental Concerns Over Red Sea Tanker and Iranian Ship Capsize in Kuwaiti Waters

Palestinian government condemns Netanyahu's map excluding West Bank, accusing him of racist colonial agenda amid $135.2 million destruction and 30 deaths in Jenin.
The Palestinian government has condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for displaying a map that excluded the West Bank, accusing him of a "racist colonial agenda" aimed at annexation. Meanwhile, in Jenin, an ongoing Israeli military operation has led to considerable destruction valued at $135.2 million and at least 30 Palestinian deaths, as reported by the Palestinian Health Ministry.

Turning to aviation news, Virgin Atlantic will commence daily flights between Riyadh and London Heathrow on March 30, 2025, aiming to bolster UK-Saudi connectivity and support Saudi Vision 2030. Utilizing the A330neo aircraft, this new route will also facilitate easier North American connections in partnership with Delta Air Lines and Saudia, enhancing tourism and trade opportunities.

In sports, Al Hilal has signed 21-year-old Brazilian striker Marcos Leonardo from Benfica for €40 million, under a five-year contract valid until 2029. This deal, supported by coach Jorge Jesus, signals a major investment in youth talent with Leonardo earning an annual salary of €5 million.

On the entertainment front, Adele has announced she will embark on a long career break after her last performance in Munich, citing a need for personal time following years of immense success. The Grammy-winning artist will finish her two-year Las Vegas residency in November 2024 and plans to explore new creative ventures while prioritizing time with fiancé Rich Paul and their child.

Switching to environmental issues, salvagers have abandoned attempts to tow the burning oil tanker Sounion in the Red Sea, targeted by Yemen's Houthis, due to unsafe conditions. The tanker, carrying 1 million barrels of oil, remains stranded, posing a significant environmental threat as alternative solutions are being considered.

Lastly, in regional news, an Iranian merchant ship named Arabakhtar I capsized in Kuwaiti waters, resulting in the deaths of six crew members of Indian and Iranian nationality. Efforts are ongoing to locate three missing bodies, with joint search operations by Iran and Kuwait, while the exact cause of Sunday's incident remains unknown.
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