From protests in France and the attack in Jordan to the global economy and tensions in Asia.. Saudi Arabia in the international press spotlight

Monitoring and Analysis | Strategic Media Department – BETH News Agency

Supervision: Abdullah Al-Omairah

Saudi Arabia | Financial Times

Investment Amid War

The newspaper examined the future of Richard Attias's business activities, which are associated with the Future Investment Initiative forum, amid the postponement of the forum's tenth edition. It highlighted the challenges facing the conferences and investment sector, alongside continued confidence in the long-term attractiveness of the Saudi market. The report reflects international interest in the war's impact on economic activities, rather than military attacks alone.

Saudi Arabia | International Press

Airport Resumes Terminal Operations

The resumption of operations at Terminals 1 and 2 of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh attracted international attention following previous Houthi attacks. The coverage highlights the continuation of air traffic and services, alongside Saudi air defense efforts to intercept attacks.

France | The Guardian and Le Monde

Protests Shake France

France witnessed widespread demonstrations against the rising cost of living and conditions in education and public services. The Interior Ministry estimated the number of participants at approximately 410,000, compared with more than 800,000 according to trade unions. Around 70,000 security personnel were deployed, while several cities witnessed clashes and arrests. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's government faces a growing challenge in addressing social demands without escalating confrontations with protesters.

Jordan | International Press

Karak Church

The armed attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Jordan's Karak Governorate dominated regional and international coverage after nine people were killed and 40 injured during a mourning ceremony. King Abdullah II ordered a firm pursuit of the perpetrators, while neither their identities nor the party responsible for the attack has been announced. Coverage is focused on the investigations, security measures, and the protection of national unity.

Funeral ceremonies were held today at the site of the attack.

Global Economy | Financial Times

Middle Powers Take Action

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers called on middle economic powers to strengthen cooperation and secure supply chains to reduce their exposure to geopolitical shocks. He cited the repercussions of the war in Iran and disruptions to fuel supplies, emphasizing the importance of diversifying sources of energy and strategic minerals.

Asia | The Japan Times

China–North Korea Rapprochement

The newspaper followed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's visit to China amid efforts to strengthen relations between the two countries. The rapprochement is significant in light of US–China competition and shifts in security and trade across East Asia.

Brazil | International Press

Deeply Divided Election

Coverage highlighted massive election rallies supporting President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and his rival Jair Bolsonaro ahead of a decisive electoral round. The large-scale public mobilization reflects the continuing sharp political divide in Latin America's largest economy.

BETH Analysis

Today's international press coverage reveals three parallel trends: widening social unrest in Europe, security threats confronting relatively stable countries, and economic efforts to reduce the consequences of wars.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, appears in international coverage from two interconnected perspectives: confronting security threats and maintaining the continuity of economic activity and essential services.