SAOwnership & classification
Founded: 1975
Ownership
Arab News, founded in 1975 by brothers Hisham and Mohammed Ali Hafiz, is published by Saudi Research & Publishing Company (SRPC), a subsidiary of Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG). SRMG is a Riyadh-listed joint-stock company whose largest shareholder is an investment vehicle (Al Ahli Capital Fund 13) managed by the asset arm of Saudi National Bank, which in turn is majority-owned by the state Public Investment Fund (PIF)—linking SRMG directly to the Saudi government.
Funding
Funded through advertising, subscriptions/digital revenue, and the resources of the SRMG group, ultimately backstopped by state-linked financial institutions (SNB/PIF).
Affiliation & stance
Editorially aligned with Saudi state interests, reflecting official policy positions and avoiding criticism of the Kingdom's leadership. Given ultimate ownership through state-controlled financial entities and a state-aligned editorial line, it is classified STATE.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Conservative
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 271
71/100
Factual
69/100
Objective
282
Articles
282
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Yemeni and Saudi forces launch counteroffensive against the Houthis
Yemeni government forces, supported by Saudi Arabia, have launched a counteroffensive against the Houthi rebels in an attempt to reclaim territory, particularly focusing on regaining control of the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait. This area is crucial for global trade and Saudi oil exports, giving the Houthis significant leverage over international powers like the U.S. and its Gulf allies. The U.S. has not committed to direct military involvement in the conflict, though it is offering intelligence and targeting support. The operation involves tens of thousands of Yemeni troops and Saudi air support, aiming to recapture the capital Sanaa, which has been under Houthi control for years. Meanwhile, the Houthis continue attacking Saudi infrastructure, including Aramco facilities. U.S. officials have expressed concerns about engaging directly in Yemen, citing potential distractions from their focus on Iran. President Trump faces internal pressure to support his ally, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, while avoiding deeper involvement in the region.
Houthis report attacks on targets in Saudi Arabia
The Huthi militia in Yemen has reported attacks on targets in Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh's international airport and a Saudi Aramco refinery in Rabigh. These claims have not yet been independently verified. Meanwhile, the Saudi-led coalition, which supports the internationally recognized Yemeni government, announced military operations in the western province of Hodeidah, where they destroyed weapons depots, storage facilities for explosive-laden boats, and Huthi naval mines. The mutual attacks indicate further escalation of the conflict between the Huthi group and the Saudi-led coalition.
Aramco chief warns oil inventory recovery could take 2 years after Hormuz reopening
The head of Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Aramco) has indicated that global oil inventory levels may take up to two years to recover following the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This statement comes amid ongoing discussions about the impact of geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions on global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping route for oil exports, and its closure had previously caused significant fluctuations in oil prices and supply. Aramco's warning highlights concerns over the pace of market normalization and potential continued volatility in the oil sector.
Kuwaiti jailed for life in UK over bid to attack Israeli embassy
A Kuwaiti national has been sentenced to life imprisonment in the United Kingdom for attempting to attack the Israeli Embassy. The individual was convicted for planning an attack against the embassy, which is located in London. The case highlights concerns related to international terrorism and security measures in place at diplomatic missions. The defendant's actions were deemed serious enough to warrant a life sentence, reflecting the severity of the planned attack. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by countries in preventing acts of violence targeting foreign embassies.
Yemeni forces gain control of Bab Al-Mandab, Mokha in operation targeting Houthis
Yemeni military forces have regained control of strategic locations Bab Al-Mandab and Mokha as part of an operation aimed at combating Houthi rebels. The operation appears to be part of broader efforts by Yemeni authorities to reclaim territory lost to the Houthis. These areas are strategically significant due to their location along critical maritime routes. The success of the operation highlights ongoing military engagements between Yemeni forces and the Houthi group, which has been involved in a prolonged conflict in the country.
Israeli forces blow up school, burn homes in southern Lebanon, Lebanese media says
According to Lebanese media reports cited by Arab News, Israeli military forces have reportedly carried out attacks in southern Lebanon, including blowing up a school and burning residential homes. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region, though specific details such as the exact location, number of casualties, or immediate responses from local authorities were not provided in the report. The account comes from Lebanese media outlets, which are often critical of Israeli actions, suggesting a potential bias in the narrative. The lack of direct quotes or official confirmation from Israeli defense authorities adds to the ambiguity surrounding the event.
Court overturns UK decisions blocking Gaza mothers, children from family reunification
A court has overturned previous UK decisions that had blocked Gaza mothers and children from reuniting with their families. This ruling allows for family reunification processes to proceed, which had been previously hindered by administrative or legal barriers. The decision reflects a shift in policy regarding the treatment of Palestinian refugees seeking to reunite with relatives in the UK. It highlights ongoing discussions around immigration policies and humanitarian considerations related to the conflict in Gaza.
Al-Alimi announces launch of military operations against Houthi militia
The article reports that Saudi Arabia's Minister of Defense, Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al-Thunayyan (referred to as 'Al-Alimi' in the headline), announced the initiation of military operations targeting the Houthi militia in Yemen. The operation is part of a broader regional conflict involving multiple parties, including Yemeni government forces and external actors. The announcement highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the continued involvement of Saudi Arabia in the conflict. No specific details about the scope, objectives, or outcomes of the operations are provided.
Who are the mystery men who stepped in to keep the FlyDubai plane from crashing?
The article discusses the incident involving a FlyDubai plane that was reportedly prevented from crashing by unidentified individuals. The focus is on identifying these 'mystery men' and their role in averting the disaster. The event has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the flight and the actions taken by those involved. Details regarding the identities of these individuals and the exact sequence of events remain unclear, prompting further investigation.
Tanker struck in the Strait of Hormuz
A tanker was struck in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transportation. The incident occurred in a region known for geopolitical tensions and strategic importance. Details regarding the cause of the strike, the extent of damage, and any potential impact on oil shipments were not provided in the brief report. The event has raised concerns about maritime security in the area. No immediate reports of casualties or environmental damage were mentioned.
Iran says Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until conditions are met
The article reports that Iran has stated the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until certain conditions are fulfilled. This comes amid ongoing tensions between Iran and Western nations, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional security concerns. The closure of the strait, a critical shipping route for global oil transportation, has raised concerns about potential disruptions to international trade and energy supplies. While the article does not specify the exact conditions Iran is demanding, it highlights the strategic importance of the strait and the geopolitical implications of its closure.
Iranian UN delegation duo ‘kicked out’ of US: State Department
The U.S. State Department has reportedly expelled two members of Iran's United Nations delegation from the country. The action comes amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional influence. The expelled diplomats were part of Iran's mission to the United Nations, which has been a focal point of diplomatic disputes. The decision reflects broader efforts by the U.S. to limit Iran's diplomatic presence and assert control over international negotiations. No specific reasons for the expulsion were immediately provided by the State Department.
Iraq says it transported 2 million barrels of crude through Strait of Hormuz
Iraq announced that it has transported 2 million barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting increased oil exports via this critical maritime route. The statement underscores Iraq's growing role in global oil supply chains and its strategic importance in the region. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for international oil trade, with significant implications for energy security and geopolitical dynamics. While the announcement reflects Iraq's economic progress, it does not provide additional details on the destination of the oil or any specific agreements related to its export.