The Eagle's Nests : America's Airbases in the Heart of the Middle East

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The United States maintains over 30 military air bases and installations across the Middle East, with approximately 40,000 to 50,000 American troops stationed there. These bases vary in size and purpose; some are large and permanent, while others are smaller and used for specific missions. These installations are crucial for safeguarding American national interests and maintaining military superiority throughout the region. They enable the U.S. to balance power and respond effectively to threats from hostile forces. These air bases serve as vital hubs for airstrikes, intelligence operations, and command centers against terrorist organizations. Given the significance of the Middle East's energy reserves, these bases also help secure oil and gas supplies. Through these facilities, the U.S. provides training, weapons, and air support to its regional allies.  In times of emergency or geopolitical tension, these bases allow the United States to take immediate military action. In essenc...
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Saudi Arabia’s Support for Palestine: A Historic Journey of Commitment

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Introduction

For decades, Saudi Arabia has stood as a staunch supporter of the Palestinian cause, not just as a political ally but as a spiritual and humanitarian partner. This relationship has grown stronger since 1948, when Saudi Arabia declared its full support for Palestine. Riyadh has raised its voice in favor of Palestine everywhere in the world, especially for the protection of Jerusalem. The Saudi government provided not only political but also financial and humanitarian aid, including hospitals, schools, and relief programs. This relationship is also significant in today's geopolitics, where Saudi Arabia remains firmly in favor of Palestine.

Post-1948: The Beginning of a Brotherhood

The Arab-Israeli War, which followed the establishment of Israel in 1948, was a test for the entire Arab world.

In this war, Israel not only imposed its presence in the heart of the Muslim world but also expelled millions of Palestinians from their homes. The bloody state of war, forced migration, and human rights violations shocked the entire Muslim world.

In such a situation, Saudi Arabia was the first to declare its strong and open support for Palestine. The kingdom not only fought against Israel but also openly condemned Israel's oppression and atrocities.

And through the Arab League, it appealed to all Arab countries for unity. Even at the summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Saudi Arabia gave central importance to the Palestinian issue. This support was not only political but also the beginning of a religious, humanitarian, and fraternal relationship, which continues to this day.

Economic and Humanitarian Support Over the Decades

Saudi Arabia has provided continuous support to the Palestinian people, not only politically but also practically.

This support was provided through various international platforms and special funds.

Support through UNRWA: Saudi Arabia actively participated in education, health, and housing assistance for Palestinian refugees under the United Nations Relief and Works Agency.

1970 to 1980: During this period, the kingdom provided more than 298 million Saudi riyals in aid to Palestine.

·       The fund was established in 2000

·       $200 million for the Jerusalem Intifada Fund

·       $800 million for the Al-Aqsa Fund

25% contribution: Saudi Arabia contributed 25 percent to both funds, which is an indication that the kingdom played a leading role in the campaign.

This support shows that Saudi Arabia’s relationship with Palestine is not just about words, but also about practical support.

 Boosting Health and Education: Recent Developments.

During 2024-2025, Saudi Arabia provided $30 million in aid to the Palestinian Authority, which was mainly used for hospitals, medicines, school operations, and staff salaries. This support is an important part of improving the Palestinian health and education systems.

Through KS relief

 The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia delivered this aid to the formal agencies, which were given to the people with transparency and as a need-based aid. So far, the total Saudi Arabian support has reached more than $5.3 billion through 289 projects. This is not only economic support but also a visible expression of humanitarian good, Islamic brotherhood, and moral responsibility, which reflects Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to Palestine.

Political and Religious Solidarity

In 1969, when the Al-Aqsa Mosque was on fire, King Faisal immediately convened an Islamic summit in which the entire Muslim world expressed its solidarity with Palestine. This summit was an important testament to Saudi Arabia's religious and political role.

In 1981, when King Fahd presented a peace plan that was later accepted at the 1982 Arab Summit, the plan aimed to establish peace in the Middle East and protect Palestinian rights.

Saudi Arabia has always recognized East Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine and has maintained this stance.

Saudi Arabia is still committed to a two-state solution that envisions a peaceful future for both Israel and Palestine.

Social and Humanitarian Contributions

Saudi Arabia has not limited its support to political or financial aid but has also shown deep loyalty to the Palestinian people on social and humanitarian grounds. Thousands of families were provided with Iqama residency and employment opportunities in Saudi Arabia, which improved their livelihood and future.

·       Financial assistance and health solutions have been provided to the families of the martyrs so that they can live with dignity and peace. 

·      Scholarship programs and educational assistance have been arranged for Palestinian students. All this is living proof of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian compassion, Islamic brotherhood, and true loyalty to the Palestinian people.

Challenges and Strained Relations (Post-Gulf War)

Relations between Saudi Arabia and Palestine soured when Palestine openly supported Saddam Hussein during the 1991 Gulf War. The decision deeply damaged the trust and political closeness between the two countries.

After that, it was like this for a while; the diplomatic distance between the world widened, and Saudi Arabia started to exercise caution in political matters

·       Despite this, Saudi Arabia continued to provide financial assistance, but the political vision remained reserved and cautious.

·       It was a period of understanding, re-establishment, and restoration of trust on both sides.

This shows that Saudi Arabia has never turned away from its humanitarian and Islamic responsibilities, no matter how complicated the political situation.  

The Present Era: Balanced Diplomacy and Renewed Engagement

Today, Saudi Arabia is pursuing its Palestinian policy with a new and moderate stance. In 2023, Prince Nayef Al-Sudairi was appointed as the non-resident ambassador to Palestine.

At the same time, Saudi Arabia has also initiated normalization talks with Israel, but has maintained its demand for Palestinian rights and a permanent state.

This policy is an example of “balanced diplomacy,” where Riyadh is promoting peace and dialogue on both sides.

 All of this is part of Vision 2030, which aims not only to achieve economic reform but also regional peace and political stability. This approach by Saudi Arabia is a deliberate step towards a new Middle East.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia's unwavering support for Palestine is part of a rough policy, which is not a reaction to a situation but is based on political, financial, and religious disciplines. This support is not only limited to economic support but also at the political and spiritual level. As the Middle East's geopolitical situation is changing, Saudi Arabia is developing a new and positive role through its Vision.



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