Geopolitical Flashpoints in the Middle East:
Prince Turki Al Faisal highlights three main issues in the Middle East: terrorism, conflict, and the lingering effects of colonialism and military interventions.

Terrorism and the Islamic State:
Prince Faisal criticizes the use of the term “Islamic State” for the extremist group, emphasizing that it neither represents Islam nor constitutes a legitimate state. He proposes calling them “Fahish,” derived from the Arabic root word for “the worst of the worst,” to undermine their propaganda and media strategy. The Prince emphasizes that terrorist groups exploit power vacuums created by shifting political dynamics and governance challenges in countries like Libya, Yemen, Tunisia, Egypt, and Syria.

Addressing the Root Causes of Terrorism:
Prince Faisal asserts that failing states are the primary disease in the region, leading to the emergence of terrorist groups. He cites the example of Iraq, where the American invasion and subsequent political developments created a vacuum that allowed terrorist organizations to flourish. The sectarian policies of the Iraqi prime minister further exacerbated these problems, leading to the rise of Fahish and the occupation of Mosul and other towns.

Intelligence Failures in Assessing Fahish’s Strength:
Henri de Montbreal questions how Western governments and intelligence agencies were caught off guard by the scale and strength of Fahish’s organization. Prince Faisal suggests that intelligence services failed to anticipate the growing threat due to their inability to recognize the consequences of political vacuums and government misconduct. He criticizes the lack of attention to warnings from Iraqi and Syrian officials regarding the impending crisis.

The West’s Approach to the Middle East:
Prince Faisal expresses concern that the West, particularly Europe and America, continues to focus on treating the symptoms of the problems in the Middle East rather than addressing the root causes. He highlights that diplomatic efforts should prioritize resolving the underlying issues, such as governance failures and sectarian tensions, rather than merely reacting to terrorist threats.

New Iraqi Government and Inclusive Governance:
A change of government in Iraq has brought hope for an inclusive government that represents the diverse political and social makeup of the country.

Syrian Crisis and Bashar al-Assad’s Actions:
Bashar al-Assad’s treatment of his own people has resulted in over 200,000 deaths in Syria, primarily caused by Assad’s forces.

International Response to Fahish and Assad:
International efforts to combat Fahish are ongoing, including airstrikes by European and other countries in Iraq. However, there is a disconnect between the focus on Fahish in Iraq while ignoring the root cause of the Syrian crisis.

Saudi Arabia and Regional Support:
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Jordan, and other Gulf states support the fight against Fahish but emphasize the need to address the underlying problem of Syrian government oppression.

King Abdullah’s Statement in Washington:
King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia highlighted the importance of addressing the Syrian government’s marginalization and persecution of its people.

Iran’s Involvement in the Syrian Crisis:
Iran’s military presence in Syria and its support for the Syrian government have made it an enemy in the eyes of many Syrians.

Iranian Intervention and Insecurity:
Saudi Arabia has consistently urged Iran to cease its interference in Arab affairs, as it is a significant factor contributing to instability in the region.

Background:
Saudi Arabia and Iran have been at odds due to Iran’s interference in countries like Iraq and Syria, supporting militias that engage in violent activities.

Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Meeting with Iranian Counterpart:
In September 2013, the Saudi and Iranian foreign ministers met in New York. It is assumed that Saudi Arabia expressed its concerns and complaints regarding Iran’s actions.

Saudi Arabia’s Conditions for Cooperation with Iran:
Iran must cease its interference in Arab countries and stop supporting militias that kill innocent people.

Iran’s Continued Actions:
Despite President Rouhani’s moderate rhetoric, Iran’s actions have remained consistent with the previous government’s policies.

Other Regional Actors:
Israel continues to occupy Palestinian territories, leading to tensions in the region. Turkey, Egypt, and Israel are significant players in the region, and their actions impact the overall dynamics.

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict:
Prince Turki Al Faisal criticizes Israel’s expansion of settlements in the West Bank and its treatment of Palestinians. He emphasizes the need for a fair and equitable solution, including a two-state solution with borders based on the 1967 lines, a return of refugees, and an end to hostilities. He expresses disappointment that no Israeli government has accepted this proposal since it was made in 2002.

Turkey’s Role:
Prince Turki Al Faisal acknowledges Turkey’s historical and cultural importance in the region. He appreciates Turkey’s positive stance on Palestine and its efforts to mediate between Israel and Syria. However, he expresses concern about Turkey’s hostile attitude towards the current Egyptian government and its support for Bashar al-Assad in Syria.

Syrian Civil War:
Prince Turki Al Faisal emphasizes the need to remove Bashar al-Assad from power in Syria as a necessary step towards achieving stability and peace. He acknowledges that Saudi Arabia and Turkey share this view but differ on other issues, such as their stance towards the Egyptian government. He highlights the importance of engaging with Russia to utilize its strong position in Syria and clarify its stance on various proposals, including the establishment of an interim government. He suggests an inclusive interim arrangement that incorporates various factions, including the Syrian Coalition Council, as a potential solution to the crisis.

Geopolitical Challenges and Disagreements:
The major powers are at odds on many fundamental issues, making it difficult to find solutions. The European concept of restoring order, similar to the Vienna Congress, may not be feasible due to a lack of agreement on essential elements.

International Conferences as a Potential Avenue:
An international conference involving regional and outside powers, with a shared desire for a resolution, could offer a new approach. The success of such a conference on the Palestinian issue might inspire its application to other conflicts.

Syrian Conflict and the Path Forward:
The Syrian people should be empowered to find their own solution, leveraging existing structures like city representatives, labor unions, and tribal groups. The tribal composition of Syria could be engaged to address the ongoing violence in tribal areas.

Regional and International Cooperation:
A national conference involving various Syrian groups could pave the way for a truly inclusive government. Regional and international actors can play a supportive role in facilitating such a conference and finding a sustainable solution.

Syrian Peace Conference Idea:
Prince Turki Al Faisal proposes holding a congress in a neutral capital to bring together all parties involved in the Syrian conflict, including representatives from the Syrian government, to discuss a solution for the fractured state. This conference could help address sensitivities and issues of external support, allowing for a better understanding of the situation.

Sykes-Picot Borders:
Prince Turki Al Faisal cautions against changing the Sykes-Picot borders, as it could lead to conflicts between various ethnic groups and nationalities in the region. He raises the example of the Kurdish issue, with Kurds residing in multiple countries, and the potential consequences of an independent Kurdish state. Changing borders could trigger a chain reaction, leading to instability and conflict throughout the region.

New Arab Reality:
Miguel Moratinos acknowledges that the Arab reality has changed significantly over the past 100 years, since the establishment of Arab nationalism and the creation of Israel. He questions how Arabs can have a say in this new era, considering the involvement of external powers and the changing energy dynamics with countries like China, Japan, and Korea.

Egyptian Political Changes:
Im Sung-Joon inquires about the impact of the recent political changes in Egypt, from the Jasmine Revolution to the ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood-backed Morsi government and the establishment of a new military-backed government. He wonders if this signifies the end of the popular democratic movement in the region.

Jihadism and Radicalization:
Riyad Tabet raises concerns about the influx of jihadists from various regions, including Europe, the United States, and North Africa. He highlights the issue of funding and unilateral teachings in Koranic schools in these regions, which contribute to a skewed understanding of Islam and potentially lead to radicalization and recruitment for jihad. Tabet also mentions the role of Turkey as a transit point for many of these jihadists.

Arab League’s Mechanism for Addressing Issues:
The Arab League has not effectively served as a mechanism for addressing important issues in the Middle East. The Arab League’s actions during the turmoil in Libya, Syria, and Yemen have been positive but limited due to vetoes by Russia and China and the destabilizing role of the Houthis in Yemen.

GCC’s Role in Initiating Arab League Action:
The GCC countries have taken the initiative to instigate Arab League action in cases like Libya, Syria, and Yemen.

Potential Coalition for Regional Stability:
A coalition between the GCC and other important Arab countries like Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and others could potentially have a significant impact on the wider regional situation.

Challenges and Considerations:
The effectiveness of such a coalition depends on the stability and active involvement of participating countries, particularly Egypt. The involvement of other countries in the coalition remains uncertain.

Egypt’s Missing Piece Puzzle:
Egypt plays a crucial role in resolving conflicts in the Middle East. Egypt’s role in the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza highlights its problem-solving capabilities. Saudi Arabia continues to support Egypt, but the Egyptian people must take ownership of their reforms. President Sisi’s subsidy cuts on energy, accepted by the Egyptian people, demonstrate a sense of responsibility. Uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia reflect ongoing political instability, but both countries are working towards stability.

Palestinian Issue as Starting Point:
The Palestinian issue is the key to resolving problems in the Middle East. A two-state solution based on the 1967 borders with swaps is the solution. Lack of political will is the obstacle to progress. The world community should pressure both sides to achieve political will.

Jewish-Arab Collaboration:
Collaboration between Jewish and Israeli money and Arab brains can solve many world problems. Once the Palestinian issue is resolved, this collaboration can begin.

Misconceptions and Baseless Accusations:
Prince Turki Al Faisal refutes the notion that Saudi Arabia solely bears responsibility for the global jihadist phenomenon. He highlights its widespread presence in various regions, including Europe, America, China, Russia, and even Japan.

Saudi Arabia’s Willingness to Collaborate:
Prince Al Faisal emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s willingness to investigate and address allegations of financial or material support for extremist schools, particularly in Africa. However, he demands concrete evidence, such as names, bank account numbers, and contact information, to enable authorities to take action.

Saudi Arabia as a Victim of Extremism:
The Prince stresses that Saudi Arabia itself is a victim of jihadist violence and rejects the idea that it would support actions that ultimately harm its own people. He cites recent arrests of over 120 individuals, including foreign nationals, as evidence of the country’s efforts to combat extremism.

Bilateral Cooperation:
Henri de Montbreal, the moderator, proposes a bilateral discussion with Prince Al Faisal to share specific information about alleged support for extremist schools. The Prince agrees to provide any available addresses or contact details.

The Role of Morocco:
The moderator mentions the participation of an advisor to the King of Morocco in a subsequent discussion on the Middle East, highlighting the importance of Morocco’s involvement in regional issues.

Continued Dialogue:
The moderator expresses his intention to discuss ways in which the World Policy Conference can contribute to improving the situation in the Middle East.

Brief Coffee Break:
The session concludes with a brief coffee break before the next session on Africa. The moderator emphasizes the importance of punctuality due to the arrival of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the upcoming session.