At UN, Saudi Arabia vows support for UNHCR's efforts to protect refugees

GENEVA — Saudi Permanent Representative to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila affirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to strengthening international cooperation and supporting the efforts of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to protect refugees and safeguard their dignity. He stressed the importance of burden-sharing, supporting host countries, and creating conditions conducive to durable solutions.Ambassador Bin Khothaila made the remarks in his address to the 77th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee in Geneva.The Saudi permanent representative welcomed UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih on the occasion of the first Executive Committee meeting since assuming his post. Bin Khothaila commended his attention to improving refugees' conditions, his engagement with host countries, and his familiarity with the needs of affected communities.The Saudi representative affirmed that the Kingdom ranked second globally and first in the Arab world among donor countries for humanitarian and relief aid in 2025. He highlighted Saudi Arabia's emphasis on linking humanitarian and development work to meet urgent needs while laying the foundations for stability and recovery. Bin Khothaila also pointed to the Saudi Fund for Development's (SFD) financing of vital sectors, including energy, health, transport, and agriculture. He highlighted the efforts of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in providing shelter, food, and medical assistance worldwide.Regarding Yemen, Bin Khothaila stressed that the continued escalation by the terrorist Houthi militia is exacerbating the humanitarian situation and increasing forced displacement amid growing needs and funding shortages. It underscored the priority of protecting civilians and ensuring unimpeded access for humanitarian aid. The Kingdom also condemned the repeated Houthi attacks targeting civilians and civilian facilities in Saudi Arabia. It affirmed its right to protect its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety of its citizens and residents in accordance with international law.Regarding the Gaza Strip, the permanent representative expressed the Kingdom’s deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation. He affirmed Saudi support for efforts to end the suffering and ensure the unrestricted delivery of aid. He also rejected the displacement of the Palestinian people and called for a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.Bin Khothaila also affirmed the Kingdom’s support for Syria's recovery and reconstruction efforts and for creating conditions that enable the safe, dignified, and voluntary return of Syrian refugees. He commended cooperation between KSrelief and UNHCR to rehabilitate homes and provide shelter for returning families before the coming winter. He also called for continued support to sustain returns and strengthen livelihoods.Regarding Sudan, Bin Khothaila reaffirmed Saudi support for peace efforts and called for an intensified humanitarian response to ease the suffering of civilians. He reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation and supporting UNHCR in carrying out its noble mission.