Kuwait city: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strongly criticized Israeli plans for settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. This development has drawn significant attention as it touches upon the ongoing tensions and territorial disputes in the region. According to Kuwait News Agency, Saudi Arabia's condemnation comes amidst increasing international scrutiny over Israel's settlement activities. The expansion plans have been a point of contention, with many viewing them as a hindrance to the peace process and the potential for a two-state solution. Meanwhile, in a separate development, Saudi Arabia's state-owned oil company, Aramco, has signed an agreement worth USD 11 billion with an international consortium to develop the Jafurah gas processing facilities. The deal is part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to diversify its energy sector and boost its economic development. In related international news, the United Nations has expressed concern that Israel's new settlement constructions in the West Bank could undermine the prospects of achieving a two-state solution. This sentiment echoes the broader international community's apprehension regarding the impact of continued settlement expansion on peace efforts. Elsewhere, the United States Department of Homeland Security reported a significant drop of 1.6 million in the number of illegal immigrants in less than 200 days during President Donald Trump's administration. This statistic marks a notable shift in immigration patterns under the policies implemented during that period. In Pakistan, there is a sense of satisfaction as the country welcomes a favorable verdict from the Permanent Court of Arbitration on the Indus Waters Treaty. The decision is seen as a victory for Pakistan in its ongoing water-sharing disputes. Tragedy struck in India, where at least 30 people lost their lives due to a massive cloudburst and subsequent flooding in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. The natural disaster has prompted emergency response efforts and heighten ed awareness of the region's vulnerability to such events.
