Saudi Arabia reaffirms support for UN refugee agency efforts

Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila, reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation and supporting the efforts of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in protecting refugees and preserving their dignity. He emphasized the importance of burden-sharing, supporting host countries, and creating conditions for lasting solutions.

This came during the Kingdom’s statement delivered by Ambassador bin Khothaila at the 77th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee in Geneva. He welcomed High Commissioner Barham Saleh on his first participation in the committee, praising his dedication to improving refugee conditions, engaging with host countries, and understanding the needs of affected communities.

The ambassador noted that Saudi Arabia ranked second globally and first among Arab countries in humanitarian and relief aid contributions for 2025. He stressed the importance of linking humanitarian and development work to meet urgent needs and build foundations for stability and recovery. He highlighted the Saudi Fund for Development’s role in financing key sectors such as energy, health, transport, and agriculture, alongside the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center’s efforts in providing shelter, food, and medical assistance worldwide.

Saudi positions on regional crises

Regarding Yemen, Saudi Arabia stated that continued escalation by the Houthi militia is worsening the humanitarian situation and increasing forced displacement amid rising needs and funding shortages. The Kingdom stressed the priority of protecting civilians and ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access. It condemned repeated militia attacks on civilian infrastructure and civilians, affirming its right to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial security in accordance with international law.

On Gaza, Saudi Arabia expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation, reaffirming its support for efforts to end the suffering, ensure unrestricted aid delivery, and reject the displacement of the Palestinian people, aiming for a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.

On Syria, the Kingdom reiterated its support for recovery and reconstruction efforts and for creating conditions for the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of Syrian refugees. It praised the cooperation between the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center and UNHCR in rehabilitating homes and sheltering returning families during the coming winter, and called for supporting sustainable return and enhancing livelihoods.

Regarding Sudan, Saudi Arabia renewed its support for peace efforts and called for intensified humanitarian response to alleviate civilian suffering.

In closing, the Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international cooperation and supporting UNHCR in fulfilling its humanitarian mission.