Saudi Crown Prince meets Syria's President Al Shara in Riyadh

Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara traveled to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, on an official visit and held a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi Press Agency released footage and images of the meeting, but did not provide further details. Al Shara was accompanied by his Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani, who was first received by Prince Faisal bin Bandar upon his arrival in Riyadh.

This visit coincides with the escalation of hostilities between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis in Yemen, with Saudi Arabia reporting that airports in Jizan and Najran were targeted in two attacks on Monday evening, resulting in three injuries and limited damage. The attacks occurred as Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces launched a major offensive to reclaim territory from the Houthis, prompting Riyadh to intensify air strikes in support of the campaign.

The Houthis have retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabian targets, including airports, oil facilities, and military sites. During the meeting, Al Shara and Crown Prince Mohammed discussed the latest regional developments and various issues of mutual concern. The aim was to promote security and stability in the region, according to Syrian news agency Sana.

Al Shara had previously visited Saudi Arabia in April and met with Crown Prince Mohammed in Jeddah, where they discussed strengthening bilateral ties and regional connectivity projects. Saudi Arabia has been a significant investor in Syria since Al Shara assumed power in 2024, following the rebel offensive that ousted the regime of Bashar Al Assad.