Saudi king in stable condition

Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah, who is suffering from pneumonia, is in stable condition but needs assistance to breathe with a respirator, media reported Saturday stating a royal court statement.

The royal court said the king wanted the public to know his condition because this was in line with his commitment "to be transparent in all public matters", Arab News reported.

"After examinations by a medical team, it became evident that the king is suffering from pneumonia and his condition requires the temporary help of a tube for breathing Friday evening. This move has been successful and has stabilised his condition," the statement said.

Crown Prince Salman, deputy premier and minister of defence, and Deputy Crown Prince Muqrin visited the king at the King Abdul Aziz Medical City (KAMC) Friday.

A Bahraini delegation, led by Sheikh Khaled bin Hamad Al-Khalifah, and former Lebanese prime minister Saad Al-Hariri also called on the king and enquired about his health.