The Emir of Kuwait dissolves parliament.

The dissolution of Kuwait's parliament was aimed at preparing for early elections in the country, in response to security and economic challenges.

Emir of Kuwait. Photo: Kuwaittimes

Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah said today that "based on the regional situation and security challenges," he has ordered the dissolution of the 50-member legislature, the Kuna news agency reported after an emergency government meeting.

This move comes less than 24 hours after Parliament Speaker Marzouk al-Ghanem called for snap elections amid security and economic challenges.

According to the Kuwaiti constitution, elections will be held within two months of the dissolution of parliament. The country held its last parliamentary elections in 2013.

Kuwait is a major oil producer, but falling global oil prices have forced it to cut subsidies, sparking debate on the issue.

Recently, Kuwait has also faced the threat of attack from the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS). Last year, IS claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Kuwait City, killing 27 people and injuring dozens more.

According to VNE