RIYADH: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation has strongly condemned repeated incursions by Israeli forces and settlers at Al-Aqsa Mosque during Ramadan, Kuwait News Agency reported on Saturday.
In a statement issued following an extraordinary meeting called by Palestine and Jordan, the OIC described the incidents as a serious escalation, and condemned continued aggression by Israelis on the holy city, as well as attacks on worshippers, including women and children.

RAMALLAH: Christians of all denominations prepared to celebrate Easter in Jerusalem amid expectations that — like last year — Israeli authorities would limit the number of Palestinian Christians allowed to participate in these celebrations.

With Christian families from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip required to obtain permits to enter the Old City, and with military checkpoints stationed there and on roads leading to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, many were dissuaded from participating in the celebrations, Arab News was told.

BEIRUT: As the women gather around the table to make maamoul cookies for Easter, they all feel that this year’s celebrations will be different, and probably for the worse.

Hala Dagher, speaking on behalf of her sisters, said: “This year we decided to split the cost of maamoul and only make half of the usual quantity.

“Maamoul cookies represent blessings and we cannot celebrate Easter without them, even in a small amount.”

TEHRAN: Saudi officials arrived in Iran to discuss procedures for reopening Riyadh’s embassy in Tehran and consulate in Mashhad, the Saudi foreign ministry said on Saturday.

Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to end their diplomatic rift and reopen their diplomatic missions in March, after China brokered a deal to restore relations between the two countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping helped broker the deal, which saw a restoration of ties after Saudi Arabia cut ties with Iran in 2016.

RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) distributed 163 tons and 930 kilograms of food baskets in Lebanon this week, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The food packages were given out in Beirut, Ayrouni, Akkar, and El Kharroub, benefiting 12,610 people; mostly Syrian and Palestinian refugees.

The move comes part of the KSrelief’s project to support food security in Lebanon during the month of Ramadan.