This year’s event marked the first time that the Kingdom hosted the prestigious global workshop, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership role in promoting peace, justice, and humanitarian values on the international stage.

The workshop was organized by the Ministry of Defense’s National Defense University in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Fayyad Al-Ruwaili and ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, along with 125 senior military officers representing 90 different countries.

The large international turnout underscored the significance of the Kingdom’s role as a global convener in matters related to military ethics, humanitarian conduct, and international law.

In his address, Lt. Gen. Al-Ruwaili emphasized that Saudi Arabia remains deeply dedicated to respecting, promoting, and strengthening the principles of international humanitarian law across all military operations.

He noted that the Kingdom’s leadership attaches great importance to ensuring that military conduct aligns with the highest ethical and humanitarian standards.

He also pointed out that Saudi Arabia has enacted comprehensive legislation that criminalizes violations of the laws of war and promotes accountability through a robust legal and institutional framework, including the establishment of specialized courts to handle such matters.

Al-Ruwaili highlighted that the Kingdom was among the first nations to accede to the four Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to international humanitarian principles.

He added that these commitments are rooted in the tolerant and compassionate teachings of Islamic Shariah, which emphasize mercy, justice, and humane treatment even during times of conflict.

The Chief of the General Staff also explained that the Ministry of Defense has taken significant steps to integrate the principles of humanitarian law into military education and training programs.

These efforts ensure that all members of the armed forces understand and apply international legal standards in their operations.

He mentioned that the ministry offers a wide range of specialized training programs, many of which are conducted in close cooperation with the ICRC.

Such initiatives aim to position Saudi Arabia as a global example in implementing and training personnel in the practical application of international humanitarian law.

Al-Ruwaili further stressed that the Kingdom’s humanitarian commitment extends far beyond the military sphere.

He pointed to the ongoing efforts of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), which provides assistance to people affected by conflicts and natural disasters around the world.

Through these initiatives, Saudi Arabia continues to demonstrate compassion and solidarity with communities in need, reinforcing its position as a leading contributor to global humanitarian causes.

In her remarks, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger expressed appreciation to the Kingdom for hosting the event and for its continued partnership with the ICRC.

She stated that the workshop comes at a crucial time when the world is witnessing a rise in both the number and intensity of conflicts, which in turn puts immense pressure on the systems and laws designed to protect civilians.

Egger emphasized that all nations share a responsibility to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law, noting that its implementation is vital to preserving human dignity during times of war.

The workshop serves as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of expertise among military leaders and humanitarian law specialists from around the world.

By hosting this important event, Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its role as a responsible global partner committed to promoting peace, stability, and the rule of law.

The Kingdom’s efforts to embed humanitarian values within its defense and foreign policy reflect its vision for a more just and humane international order — one that safeguards human life, dignity, and mutual respect across all nations.

During the meeting, ministers warmly welcomed the US proposal aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza and praised the successful outcomes of the Munich Security Conference held in AlUla.

The cabinet underscored its strong commitment to supporting peaceful resolutions in the occupied Palestinian territories, applauding the steps proposed by US President Donald Trump to ensure the release of all hostages and initiate immediate negotiations for practical implementation.

This demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s dedication to constructive dialogue, humanitarian initiatives, and promoting stability in the region.

Minister of Media Salman bin Youssef Al-Dosari stated that the cabinet commended the achievements of the Munich Security Conference leaders’ meeting in AlUla, emphasizing the Kingdom’s role as a hub for international dialogue and cooperation.

The session brought together senior officials from multiple countries, allowing for productive discussions on regional developments and global issues including food security, climate change, energy, international trade, and economic collaboration.

The cabinet also highlighted the remarkable progress made in cybersecurity cooperation among Arab nations.

The outcomes of the second regular session of the Council of Arab Cybersecurity Ministers, hosted by Saudi Arabia, were lauded for advancing regional collaboration in creating a safe, reliable, and digitally secure environment that supports economic growth and prosperity.

Additionally, the session praised the achievements of the fifth International Cybersecurity Forum held in Riyadh under the patronage of King Salman, noting its success in fostering innovation, technological excellence, and international partnerships in cybersecurity.

Through this session, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its position as a proactive and responsible leader in regional peace initiatives, international diplomacy, and digital advancement.

By championing collaboration, humanitarian efforts, and technological progress, the Kingdom continues to contribute positively to stability, growth, and prosperity in the region and beyond.

“Coming from a medical background, I’m naturally optimistic,” Al-Rabeeah told Arab News on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York. “With increasing acceptance of Palestine by many countries, particularly in the West, we are moving closer to achieving a durable solution.”

The High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, led to the adoption of the New York Declaration—a comprehensive roadmap outlining timebound, actionable steps to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Endorsed by the UN General Assembly with overwhelming support, the declaration provides a multi-dimensional framework covering political governance, security, humanitarian assistance, economic recovery, and legal accountability. Key measures include an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, reunification with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority (excluding Hamas), a temporary UN-led stabilization mission, and a halt to Israeli settlement expansion.

“The people of Palestine have endured immense suffering for many years,” Al-Rabeeah said. “The two-state solution remains the only viable path for long-term peace and a brighter future for Palestinians.”

Al-Rabeeah also highlighted global humanitarian challenges, ahead of a high-level UN meeting on displaced populations. With over 130 million people displaced worldwide and donor fatigue threatening aid efforts, he called for renewed international commitment.

“We face multiple crises — in Sudan, Ukraine, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond,” he noted. “This meeting is essential to highlight the urgency of resolving ongoing crises, preventing new ones, and ensuring a better future for refugees and displaced communities.”

This is no figure of speech. The Saudi leadership quite literally does not sleep during Hajj.

Year after year, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms its unparalleled ability to uphold the sacred trust bestowed upon it by God — the responsibility of organizing the Hajj and serving the guests of the Almighty. In doing so, it has become a global benchmark for managing the largest annual human gathering on earth, marked by precision, professionalism, and utmost safety.

At the heart of this unparalleled effort lies the unwavering commitment of the Saudi leadership — led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, may God preserve them. The title “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques” is not a mere ceremonial designation. It reflects the essence of Saudi leadership, which dedicates all its resources to serving pilgrims, with the full support and pride of the Saudi people.

Each year, the world watches a remarkable scene unfold as the Kingdom welcomes millions of pilgrims and oversees the Hajj rituals with a unique model of care, logistics, and humaneness — a system that reflects the Saudi leadership’s devotion to the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques and to the dignity of the pilgrims.

It is no surprise that the Kingdom is globally hailed as a model in managing this colossal annual event. For Saudi Arabia, Hajj is not only an honor but a historic and religious duty, passed down through generations of leadership and upheld with national vigor and responsibility.

The Two Holy Mosques lie at the very core of Saudi Arabia’s identity — a cornerstone of its spiritual and civilizational mission since the unification of the Kingdom by its founding father, King Abdulaziz, may God have mercy on him.

This devotion manifests in every detail of Hajj management. Ministries, security forces, medical units, and service sectors operate in seamless coordination to provide a deeply spiritual, safe, and smooth experience for pilgrims from all corners of the world.

What stands out year after year is the meticulous and direct supervision of the Saudi leadership. King Salman personally oversees preparations, while Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman follows the developments minute by minute, issuing instructions to ensure the utmost comfort and security of the pilgrims — tirelessly and without delay.

This is no figure of speech. The Saudi leadership quite literally does not sleep during Hajj. Real-time decisions, instant adjustments, and swift implementations are hallmarks of a flexible and efficient system — all aimed at ensuring that the guests of God fulfill their rites in peace and safety.

Security remains the foundational pillar of Hajj operations. The Kingdom spares no effort in protecting pilgrims from all potential risks — organizational, health-related, or security threats. Thousands of security personnel are strategically deployed across the holy sites, backed by advanced monitoring technologies, real-time tracking systems, and crowd management strategies designed to swiftly respond to any emergency.

Yet beyond safety, the Kingdom offers pilgrims peace of mind — a palpable sense of care and protection that enhances the spiritual serenity of the Hajj experience.

The massive expansion projects in the holy sites are a clear testament to this dedication. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has implemented the largest expansion in the history of the Grand Mosque, alongside the development of Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat. Modern transport systems, bus lanes, and the Mashair Train have all contributed to reducing congestion and facilitating the pilgrim flow.

Saudi Arabia has also established a robust medical infrastructure, with hundreds of clinics, field hospitals, air ambulances, cooling stations, air-conditioned tents, and water and food distribution points — all functioning 24/7 as part of a fully integrated logistical network.

Nor has the Kingdom been left behind in the digital age. On the contrary, technology has been seamlessly woven into the Hajj operation. Smart applications now guide pilgrims, provide real-time assistance, issue fatwas, and help locate services. Artificial intelligence and multilingual service robots offer on-the-ground support, making the pilgrim experience smoother and more accessible.

This digital transformation is not about technological showmanship, but rather about achieving the ultimate goal — easing the physical and emotional burden on every pilgrim.

In alignment with Vision 2030, the Kingdom has made pilgrim service a national priority. The “Guests of God Service Program” is a flagship initiative aimed at upgrading every aspect of the Hajj and Umrah journey — from arrival to departure — by expanding capacity, enhancing quality, and enriching the spiritual experience.

This reflects not a seasonal commitment, but a long-term, strategic pledge to make the pilgrimage not only spiritually fulfilling but also welcoming, dignified, and memorable.

What distinguishes the Saudi model is its dedication to constant improvement. After each Hajj season, thorough reviews are conducted, feedback is analyzed, committees convene, and plans are updated to address challenges and refine processes. Lessons learned are actively incorporated into future operations.

This proactive approach sends a clear message: the safety and service of pilgrims is a red line for the Kingdom — a responsibility never taken lightly, and never compromised.

Hajj in Saudi Arabia is not merely an event. It is a grand narrative of dedication and accountability, orchestrated by leaders who remain alert, teams who think ahead, and hands that serve with sincerity.

Yes, no human operation is perfect. Minor lapses are natural in an event of such scale. Yet unfortunately, some exploit these rare instances to spread negativity or distort reality. Saudi Arabia, with its transparent governance and quiet confidence, does not answer with rhetoric — it responds with action, consistent upgrades, and the undeniable testimony of millions of satisfied pilgrims.

Credible voices across the Arab, Islamic, and global media landscape have praised Saudi Arabia’s Hajj management as a model of service, discipline, and sincerity — a standard to aspire to.

Year after year, the Kingdom continues to prove that it is most worthy of this sacred trust — not just capable, but exemplary. In doing so, it transforms one of the world’s greatest logistical challenges into a shining symbol of compassion, order, and excellence.

We pray to Almighty God to bless our wise leadership and grant continued success to all those serving this Hajj season. May the Kingdom and its people remain forever safe and prosperous.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.