Saudi Arabia locks down Qatif region as coronavirus cases rise in Gulf (latest)


Players entering the pitch as the stands are seen empty after the decision of the Saudi Ministry of Sports, following an outbreak Covid-19 during the Saudi Professional League soccer match between AL-Hilal and Al-Ettifaq at King Saud University Stadium, in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia on Sunday (March 8) also imposed a temporary lockdown on its eastern Qatif province, home to a large Shi'ite Muslim population, to prevent the spread of the virus in the kingdom after recording four more cases that raised the total to 11. - Reuters

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia on Sunday (March 8) imposed a temporary lockdown on its eastern Qatif province, home to a large Shi'ite Muslim population, to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the kingdom after recording four more cases that raised the total to 11.

The move risks stirring resentment in Qatif, which has been a flashpoint between the Sunni-dominated Saudi government and minority Shi'ites in the country who have complained of discrimination and marginalisation, charges the government denies.

Win a prize this Mother's Day by subscribing to our annual plan now! T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month

Billed as RM148.00/year

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In Regional

Malaysia needs time to study Asean joint visa proposal, says Home Minister
Mt Ruang: Last eruptions before Wednesday occurred in 2002, 1949
Thailand drops joint patrols with Chinese police after public backlash
Cops on the hunt for cable thieves in Ayer Hitam
Najib wanted to answer questions on money laundering in court, says investigating officer
Hearing for Siti Bainun's appeal against conviction postponed to Jan 30 next year
Biker ambushed by a tiger near Gua Musang, lives to tell his tale
Historic day for human rights in Malaysia, says Azalina
Many workers in boycott-hit companies are locals, says Rayer
Two nabbed for launching fireworks at police in Lembah Subang

Others Also Read