Saudi Days

To begin, I do not intend to diminish anyone’s worth, but I believe we have long grown accustomed to the Blue Team’s defeats. I am puzzled by those who still grow angry or saddened by their team’s losses, even though possessing a storied past does not guarantee maintaining that level of performance in the future. This is not a theory, nor is it a customary defense used by some who justify themselves by citing their history. What matters is not the past, but what we offer today to the present. If our performance is not at a good level, why should we wait for a miracle or a lucky break to bring us victory?

Dear friend, winning requires prayers, supplications, and hopes, but it also demands significant effort. Importantly, Jeddah is today adorned with the flags of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, celebrating the 27th edition of the Gulf Cup during beautiful, green Saudi days. Kuwait also celebrates this occasion as if the Saudi National Day were our own, and as if the Saudi national team’s victory over its brother, Kuwait, is also a victory for Kuwait.

Despite the exhaustion suffered by Gulf states since February last year due to war and repeated threats that continue to affect Gulf countries, they have refused to deprive themselves and their peoples of the joy associated with Saudi National Day and the Gulf Cup. May these days mark the beginning of stability for the region and the end of political crises.

Let us briefly recall the important role played by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the region and for the world as a whole. Within the Arab framework, Saudi Arabia has been keen to support major Arab causes, foremost among them the Palestinian issue. It has also participated in numerous diplomatic initiatives and efforts aimed at resolving conflicts and enhancing Arab solidarity. Furthermore, it has provided economic and humanitarian assistance to Arab countries affected by crises and disasters, thereby strengthening its position as an influential state at both the regional and international levels.

Regarding wars and crises, the Kingdom has played various roles according to the requirements of each stage, whether through direct military participation within Arab and international coalitions or by supporting political and humanitarian efforts to establish peace and stability. It also played a prominent role in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991, hosting international coalition forces and contributing to operations aimed at ending the Iraqi occupation of Kuwait, a stance that embodied its commitment to the security and stability of Gulf states.

In addition to its political and military roles, the Kingdom has invested in diplomacy and dialogue as a primary means of addressing conflicts, making it an effective mediator in many regional files. As a result of these continuous efforts, Saudi Arabia has become one of the most influential powers in the Middle East, playing a key role in shaping security, stability, and development in the Arab region. On a personal note for Kuwaitis, we recall the famous saying of the late King Fahd bin Abdulaziz, may God have mercy on him, during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, when he stated: “Either Kuwait returns, or Saudi Arabia goes with it.”