DAMMAM — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has increased its security measures in 119 embassies all over the world. Manager of Media Department at the ministry Ambassador Osama Al-Nugali said Saudi diplomats are at an increased risk of being targeted due to the rise of terror-related attacks in the Middle East. “There have been some incidents of kidnapping and transgression but the situation is still under control. We have increased the security in 119 countries just in case. Saud diplomats should also be careful about who they interact with,” said Al-Nugali. He added that Saudi diplomats should be vigilant at all times and adhere to the ministry's regulations and security measures. “Saudi diplomats should be extra careful and wary in countries experiencing political instability. Our security campaign includes raising awareness on the dangers Saudi diplomats can face. We have also signed agreements with host countries to offer protection to them,” said Al-Nugali. He also said if the political situation in a country deteriorates significantly, the ministry will temporarily close its embassy and recall all diplomats to the Kingdom until stability is restored. “Saudi Intelligence did a great job in freeing the Saudi Consul Abdullah Al-Khaldi,” said Al-Nugali, referring to a Saudi diplomat in Yemen who was released last week after spending nearly three years in captivity. Al-Khaldi was kidnapped in March 2012 in front of his home in Aden. The ministry is currently preparing for the opening of an embassy in Baghdad and a consulate in Erbil in Kurdistan.
