Snow blankets northern Saudi Arabia; tensions rise with alleged abduction amid Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
In an unusual turn of weather, the Al-Jouf region in northern Saudi Arabia has been blanketed with snow, turning the cityscapes of Sakaka and Dumat Al-Jandal into winter wonderlands. As locals brace for possible thunderstorms and strong winds, the snow and retreating rains set the stage for a vibrant spring with blossoming wild plants.
Meanwhile, escalating tensions in the Middle East have reached new heights as Israeli commandos allegedly abducted a Lebanese student, adding fuel to the fire amid ongoing airstrikes and counterattacks between Israel and Hezbollah. This development has ripped through the region, inciting further violence and complicating already fraught relations.
In the UK, pro-Palestinian activists have made headlines for stealing busts of Israel's first president, Chaim Weizmann, from a university in Manchester as part of a protest marking the anniversary of the Balfour Declaration. As investigations unfold, this action is part of broader pro-Palestinian demonstrations sweeping the area.
Stateside, political campaigns are heating up as
Donald Trump and Kamala Harris vie for crucial Arab American endorsements in Michigan, a pivotal battleground state for the upcoming US presidential election. Their differing foreign policy stances, notably on Middle Eastern issues, may sway this influential electorate, vital for tipping the scales in this tightly contested arena.
Turning back to Saudi Arabia, efforts are underway in Jazan to preserve the region's rich pottery heritage, a craft steeped in history but facing modern challenges. Local authorities are investing in training and cultural festivals to engage the youth and secure this traditional craft's legacy for future generations.
Lastly, looking toward the future, the 34th Saudi Build Exhibition promises to spotlight global innovations in construction and smart technologies in 2024. With a vast array of participants from around the world, this event underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainability and advancement in the construction industry.