��������

RIYADH: The British Council is celebrating five decades in �������� by expanding its English language programs to Alkhobar and Jeddah, launching its first full academic year of courses for children and teenagers this September.

The expansion, which builds on established operations in Riyadh, comes in direct response to rising demand from parents and educational communities across the Kingdom.

It also supports Vision 2030’s ambition to equip young Saudis with essential communication skills, global awareness and the confidence to succeed in a competitive world.

“These courses are designed to build life skills, not just language ability,” a British Council spokesperson said.

“Students develop confidence, critical thinking and creativity — all essential for success in school and beyond.”

The program is delivered by qualified teachers using an international curriculum adapted to meet the needs of local learners. It offers:

• Interactive and engaging lessons that make learning enjoyable and effective.
• A safe and inclusive environment that supports all students.
• Digital tools and at-home learning resources through the council’s online Learning Hub.
• Regular progress updates and achievement certificates for parents.

For 50 years, the British Council has been a trusted partner for Saudi families and schools, recognized globally for its expertise in English language education.

Working in more than 100 countries and reaching 600 million people worldwide between 2021 and 2022, the organization has played a pivotal role in fostering cultural exchange, education, and mutual understanding between the UK and ��������.

To mark the anniversary, parents who register their children before Aug. 30 will receive a special discount of up to 25 percent on course fees.

Courses begin in September, with enrollment now open. For further details and registration, visit www.britishcouncil.sa.

The British Council is the UK’s international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities.

It builds connections, understanding and trust through work in arts, culture, education and the English language, contributing to peace, prosperity and skills development across the globe.

RIYADH: �������� on Wednesday strongly condemned statements made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in support of a so-called “Greater Israel.”

In an interview with i24 News on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he is “very attached” to the vision of a “Greater Israel.”

The term is understood to refer to an expansionist concept of Israeli territory that includes East Jerusalem, the West Bank, Gaza, the Sinai Peninsula, the Golan Heights and parts of other neighboring Arab countries.

The Kingdom’s Foreign Ministry said it completely rejected the “settlement and expansionist ideas and projects” adopted by Israeli authorities.

The ministry also said the Palestinian people had a historical and legal right to establish an independent, sovereign state on their lands, based on relevant international laws.

“The Kingdom warns the international community against the Israeli occupation’s persistence in flagrant violations that undermine the foundations of international legitimacy, blatantly violate the sovereignty of states, and threaten regional and global security and peace,” the ministry said.

The Israeli military said on Wednesday that it had approved the framework for a new offensive in the Gaza Strip.

The approved plan for the expanded offensive comes days after Israel’s security cabinet called for the capture of the Palestinian territory’s largest city.Israel’s 22 month war on Gaza has killed more than 61,000 people and created dire humanitarian conditions.