Riyadh, October 14, 2024 — The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), has positioned itself as a global leader in humanitarian and relief efforts, committed to serving individuals in need regardless of their background. This mission is rooted in the principles of human brotherhood, aiming to provide comprehensive support and assistance to those affected by crises and disasters.
Saudi Arabia actively participates in international and United Nations initiatives designed to mitigate the impacts of disasters and crises. The Kingdom has made substantial contributions to alleviate suffering, enhance living conditions, and promote sustainable development goals worldwide. A notable example of this commitment is the recent allocation of $18 million to the United Nations to address the consequences of natural disasters and marine pollution stemming from the FSO Safer oil tanker.
In response to the severe drought and famine affecting Somalia, the Kingdom has implemented targeted projects to alleviate the crisis. These efforts include the rehabilitation and digging of new artesian wells to ensure a consistent supply of clean water for both the local population and livestock. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has extended food security assistance to the most vulnerable groups, including displaced persons affected by humanitarian crises in Somalia, Yemen, Libya, Pakistan, and Sudan.
When a devastating earthquake struck Syria and Türkiye, Saudi Arabia quickly demonstrated its commitment to humanitarian aid by establishing relief air bridges, deploying volunteer and medical teams, and supporting both local and international relief efforts. This swift response highlights the Kingdom's dedication to providing timely assistance in times of dire need.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia has made generous contributions to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Through air and sea bridges, as well as airdrops, the Kingdom has provided vital food, shelter, and medical aid. Recently, it established a camp for displaced Palestinians in Khan Yunis to assist those impacted by severe weather and damaged shelters.
On October 13th, the Kingdom joined the global community in observing the International Day for Disaster Reduction, reinforcing its commitment to promoting a culture of disaster prevention, preparedness, and solidarity with those affected by humanitarian crises. This observance underscores the Kingdom’s role as a proactive leader in humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.
