The Kingdom Supports International Efforts for Rapid Response to Reduce Disasters and Aid Those Affected

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA: Through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), the Kingdom has taken a leading role in the humanitarian and relief sector. The ultimate goal and driving force behind all humanitarian initiatives is to serve people wherever they are, regardless of their religious, ethnic, or cultural backgrounds. This support is grounded in the principles of human connection, reflecting the nature and customs of the Saudi people and their benevolent leadership.

The Kingdom is committed to bolstering international efforts for rapid response to mitigate disasters and crises affecting various nations worldwide. Its aim is to alleviate suffering, improve living conditions, and achieve sustainable development goals through its humanitarian arm, KSrelief.

In this regard, the Kingdom has provided USD 18 million through the United Nations to address the impacts of natural disasters and reduce marine pollution caused by oil leaks from the “Safer” tanker moored off the Red Sea.

Additionally, the Kingdom has contributed to alleviating the suffering of those affected by drought and famine in Somalia by rehabilitating and drilling new artesian wells to ensure that targeted communities and livestock have access to clean water. It has also implemented life-saving interventions to provide food security for the most vulnerable and displaced people in Somalia.

Furthermore, the Kingdom has provided food, medical, and shelter assistance to Yemen, Libya, Pakistan, and Sudan during the humanitarian crises and disasters they face.

The Kingdom has not hesitated to respond rapidly through KSrelief to the earthquake disaster in Syria and Turkey. Relief airbridges were established to aid victims of the earthquake, alongside the deployment of voluntary teams and medical emergency responders, all of whom are Saudi nationals. These efforts support local and international organizations in managing the crisis.

Through KSrelief, the Kingdom has also made generous contributions to alleviate the humanitarian crisis faced by the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. This includes ongoing provision of food, shelter, and medical aid via air and sea bridges, as well as airdrops of various food supplies to those affected in the region, aiming to break the blockade imposed by Israeli forces on border crossings. The center has established a camp for displaced Palestinians in Khan Yunis in response to pleas from those residing near the shore whose tents were damaged and flooded due to rising waves.

The Kingdom joins the world in celebrating the International Day for Disaster Reduction on 13 October each year. This occasion aims to promote a culture of disaster prevention, preparedness, and response, while expressing solidarity with those affected by humanitarian crises.