GENEVA: Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international cooperation and support for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in protecting refugees, sharing responsibilities and helping host countries address humanitarian needs.
Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila affirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting the efforts of 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. The remarks came in the Kingdom’s address delivered by Ambassador bin Khothaila during the 77th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee in Geneva, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
Saudi Arabia Affirms Commitment to Strengthening International Cooperation, Supporting UNHCR’s Efforts.
https://t.co/f41lQSLhz3
#SPAGOV— SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) October 14, 2026
The Saudi permanent representative welcomed UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih on the occasion of his first Executive Committee meeting since assuming his post. He commended his attention to improving refugees’ conditions, his engagement with host countries, and his familiarity with the needs of affected communities.
He 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.
He 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, the Kingdom stressed that the continued escalation by the 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 Kingdom expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation. It affirmed its support for efforts to end the suffering and ensure the unrestricted delivery of aid. It also rejected the displacement of the Palestinian people and called for a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.
The Kingdom also affirmed its support for Syria’s recovery and reconstruction efforts and for creating conditions that enable the safe, dignified, and voluntary return of Syrian refugees.
It commended cooperation between KSrelief and UNHCR to rehabilitate homes and provide shelter for returning families before the coming winter. It also called for continued support to sustain returns and strengthen livelihoods.
Regarding Sudan, the Kingdom reaffirmed its support for peace efforts and called for an intensified humanitarian response to ease the suffering of civilians. It reiterated its commitment to strengthening international cooperation and supporting UNHCR in carrying out its noble mission.
