Background:
Prince Turki has shared his experiences and expertise with students at the Center for Contemporary Arts and elsewhere at the university. He was the Director of General Intelligence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, involved in crucial events like the struggle in Afghanistan.

Experience and Expertise:
Prince Turki has extensive knowledge of the Middle East, gained from his various roles in the Saudi government. He served as Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the UK and the United States.

Public Intellectual and Spokesperson:
Prince Turki is a prominent public intellectual in Saudi Arabia. He is known as an articulate spokesman for a Saudi perspective on current events in the Middle East.

Role in Intellectual Institutions:
Prince Turki is the custodian of the King Faisal Foundation in Riyadh. He is also the chairman of the King Faisal Center for Islamic Studies and Research, a major intellectual institution in Riyadh.

Turki al Faisal al Sa’ud’s Diplomatic Career:
Turki al Faisal al Sa’ud’s diplomatic career began with an amusing incident during his appointment as ambassador to the UK in 2003, where he mistakenly entered Buckingham Palace with his right foot instead of his left. He later served as ambassador to the United States from 2005 to 2007, succeeding Prince Bandar.

Letter of Credentials to President Bush:
Turki al Faisal al Sa’ud presented his credentials to President Bush, expressing his intent to serve the interests of both governments and peoples. He highlighted the historic meeting between King Abdulaziz and President Roosevelt in 1945 as the foundation of their strong relations.

Strategic Dialogue and Educational Exchange:
King Abdullah and President Bush established a strategic dialogue between the two countries. Saudi Arabia saw an increase in the number of students applying for visas to study in the United States, with over 5,000 applications in 2005 and 70,000 Islamic students overall.

Recognition of Strong Ties:
Turki al Faisal al Sa’ud emphasized the dynamic links between Saudi Arabia and the United States, highlighting the historic and contemporary dimensions of their relationship. President Bush acknowledged the strong ties between the two nations and accepted Turki al Faisal al Sa’ud’s letters of credence.

US-Saudi Relations:
The US and Saudi Arabia share the common goals of security and stability in the Middle East. Both countries acknowledge the suffering caused by terrorism and value Saudi Arabia’s role in the global war against it. The US is confident that Saudi Arabia, under King Abdullah’s leadership, will continue to play a vital role in regional and world affairs.

Saudi Arabia’s Modernization and Leadership:
Saudi Arabia has undergone significant modernization efforts since its establishment in 1932. The country is expected to play a leading role in the Middle East in the 21st century.

Diplomatic Approach:
Diplomacy is no longer solely the domain of diplomats but occurs at higher leadership levels due to advanced communication capabilities. The ambassador operated within the leeway provided by the US President’s instructions and sought to engage directly with leaders to foster diplomatic relations.

Diplomatic Protocol:
Saudi diplomats would directly contact the head of state, bypassing the ambassador, for urgent matters. King Abdullah I facilitated direct communication with heads of state, reducing the need for diplomatic bureaucracy.

Outreach to the American People:
Prince Turki aimed to connect with the American people beyond official channels. He embarked on a tour of 25 states in a year and four months, visiting universities, think tanks, and local communities. His goal was to humanize Saudi Arabia and address misconceptions about the country.

Engaging with Americans:
Americans showed great hospitality and inclusivity during Prince Turki’s visits. They were curious and eager to learn about Saudi Arabia, asking questions about culture, politics, and society. Americans prepared themselves by reading books and researching Saudi Arabia before meetings.

Diversity and Inclusivity in America:
Prince Turki found America to be a diverse and inclusive society, representing various ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds. This diversity allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of American society.

Saudi Students in the United States:
Prince Turki made an effort to visit Saudi students studying in the United States. He recognized their positive engagement with local communities and their respect for local culture.

Evolution of Saudi Diplomatic Training:
The Saudi Foreign Service became more professional in the mid-1970s. The Diplomatic Institute was established to train diplomats in diplomacy and other professional skills. Scholarships were provided for diplomats to study abroad and gain international experience.

Embassy Staff:
Beyond diplomats, embassies require technicians, administrators, and note-takers. Prince Turki emphasized the importance of skilled staff to support diplomatic efforts.

Diplomatic Training:
Face-to-face diplomatic discussions require precise reporting to avoid misinterpretation. Saudi diplomats have improved their skills, talent, and knowledge through training. They have become more active, vocal, and knowledgeable in their work.

Fahish:
The term “Daesh” is a misnomer, and “Fahish” is a more appropriate name for ISIS. “Fahish” means the worst of the worst in Arabic. A media campaign should focus on describing the despicable acts of ISIS and stripping it of any holy connotations.

Prison in Iraq:
The prison in Iraq where Americans incarcerated al-Qaeda and other militants became a university for ISIS. ISIS members studied, honed their skills, and developed relationships in this prison. This aspect has not received much attention in the past.

Cult-Like Nature of Al-Qaeda and Fahish:
Al-Qaeda and Fahish share similarities with cults, characterized by a distinct philosophy, leadership, membership, and recruitment processes. Like the Hashashin cult in the 12th-13th centuries, they employ psychological manipulation, such as drug-induced visions, to attract recruits. Al-Qaeda and Fahish use religious ideology and promises of afterlife rewards to entice members, particularly targeting young, unattached individuals.

Terror as a Strategy:
Fahish employs terror tactics to spread fear and cow populations, including public beheadings, crucifixions, and massacres. Terror is used to impose control over occupied territories and force compliance. The use of terror is not limited to outsiders but also extends to members of communities under their control.

Al-Khilafah and Selective Interpretation of Religious Texts:
The desire for the return of the Khilafah (Islamic caliphate) is a recurring theme among certain Muslim groups. Fahish members claim to be Islamic scholars, but their interpretation of religious texts is selective and often distorted to support their agenda. They invent stories to create a historical and religious foundation for their ideas, seeking prestige and authority over others.

Global Reach and Influence of Fahish:
Fahish has established networks and support groups in various countries, including Egypt, Pakistan, and London. Hizb al-Tahrir, a London-based group, is believed to have influenced Fahish’s ideology regarding the Khilafah. The group appeals to people’s desire for a united Islamic caliphate, attracting followers worldwide.

Why Non-Muslims Can’t Enter Mecca and Medina:
The prohibition for non-Muslims to enter Mecca and Medina is based on an interpretation of Quranic verse and Hadith. The verse refers to people coming into holy places and not being allowed if they are not “fahir”. The decree was issued by Omar, and it has been accepted by both Sunnah and Shia Muslims. It is a matter of interpretation, but it has become a widely accepted practice.

Women Driving in Saudi Arabia:
The prohibition of women driving in Saudi Arabia has no logical explanation. The speaker personally has no problem with women driving and has been advocating for it for the past 10 years. Women are allowed to be represented in the Shura Council and make up 20% of its members. Women are also allowed to attend universities and hold various positions in society.

Saudi Arabia’s First Think Tank:
King Faisal Center is Saudi Arabia’s first think tank, established 31 years ago. It has played a significant role in the country’s policy-making process.

Other Think Tanks:
Gulf Research Council is a well-established think tank in Saudi Arabia. It focuses on political issues and policies in the Gulf region. Another think tank is run by Dr. Anwar Eshkin, specializing in studies for the government and other entities. These think tanks are located in cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam.

Growth of Think Tanks:
The recognition of their role by society and the government has led to the growth of think tanks. The Gulf Research Council recently collaborated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Institute of Diplomacy on a conference about political issues and policy in the Gulf.

Advice to Students:
“Know who you are” is the best way to deal with challenges in a foreign society. Understanding one’s identity helps in getting along with diverse individuals.

Question about Yemen:
The question about the recent coup in Yemen and Saudi Arabia’s response to the Houthis in the north was raised but not answered in this segment of the presentation.

Historical Context:
Yemen and Saudi Arabia have a long and interconnected history, with close ties between the two countries. In 2012, President Ali Abdullah Saleh proposed an interim government to bring stability to Yemen after the Arab Spring demonstrations.

Houthis and Zaydi Sect:
The Houthis are members of the Zaydi sect of Shia Islam, concentrated primarily in Yemen. They believe in the sixth imam as their leader, following the lineage of Prophet Muhammad. The imamate system in Yemen lasted for centuries until the Republican Revolution in 1962, which overthrew the imam and established a republic.

Houthi Agitation and Confrontations:
The Houthis began agitating for recognition as the new imams, leading to confrontations with the government. The government would initiate campaigns against the Houthis, resulting in arrests, killings, and ceasefires. The Houthis were allowed to establish schools and seminaries to propagate their ideas, leading to further conflicts.

2011 Uprising and Alliance with Saleh:
During the 2011 uprising, the Houthis gained freedom to agitate and promote their ideas. Former President Ali Abdullah Saleh, seeking to regain power, formed an alliance with the Houthis. The Houthis, with Saleh’s support, captured Sana’a and expanded their control in Yemen.

Ongoing Conflict and Regional Involvement:
The United Nations and GCC countries have attempted to mediate a political process in Yemen, including negotiations with the Houthis. The Houthis have refused to accept the decisions of the national reconciliation efforts and have continued to expand their territory. The Houthis’ actions have raised concerns in the region, particularly in Saudi Arabia, due to their potential impact on regional stability.

Yemen’s Complex Situation:
Yemen’s conflict involves President Ali Abdullah Saleh and his supporters in the armed forces and tribes. The resolution is challenging due to the country’s economic and natural resource issues, as well as its rapidly growing population. Efforts to reduce conflict are ongoing, with Saudi Arabia playing a supportive role.

North-South Dispute in Yemen:
Southerners feel marginalized within the union formed after the 1994 civil war. There are ongoing agitations for secession from Yemen, creating an additional challenge for the country’s leaders.

Houthis and Iranian Support:
The Houthis have strong Iranian support, including a pledge of allegiance to Ali Khamenei by one of their leaders. This complicates the Houthis’ claim to be imams of the Zayi sect.

ISIS Threat to Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia is concerned about ISIS’s proximity to the kingdom, especially with recent incidents in the eastern province. Investigations are ongoing to identify the reasons behind the violence and the perpetrators.

Sunni Arab States’ Response:
Some believe Sunni Arab states should take the lead in addressing the ISIS threat, rather than just providing support. The kingdom acknowledges this concern and continues to monitor the situation closely.

Fahish as a Threat to the Kingdom:
Fahish is a terrorist organization that seeks to instigate military conflict between Shia and Sunni groups in the kingdom. Saudi Arabia has declared Fahish a terrorist organization and arrested individuals who espouse its ideology. Fahish is a global threat with members operating in different countries, including England, the UK, the US, and Canada.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Iraq:
Saudi Arabia recognized that Prime Minister Maliki was the wrong leader for Iraq since he marginalized the Sunnis and led to the rise of Fahish in the country. Saudi Arabia refused to establish an embassy in Baghdad and cut off communication with Maliki, maintaining ties with other Iraqi parties. The US and other allies initially supported Maliki but later realized that he needed to be removed to form an inclusive national unity government.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Syria:
Saudi Arabia warned the international community that Syria would become a haven for terrorist groups if the situation was not addressed. The kingdom advocated for the removal of Bashar al-Assad from power and the establishment of an inclusive interim government. Saudi Arabia called for support to the nationalist and inclusive opposition to Assad to level the playing field between the opposition and the government, facilitating negotiations.

Saudi Arabia’s Efforts in the Syrian Conflict:
Saudi Arabia has consistently advocated for a resolution to the Syrian conflict, emphasizing the need for negotiations. In response to Assad’s military superiority and unwillingness to negotiate, Saudi Arabia worked with the Arab League to present a resolution in the United Nations, which was vetoed by Russia and China. Despite the veto, Saudi Arabia persisted, taking the issue to the General Assembly, where it gained support from over 135 countries. Additionally, Saudi Arabia led the effort to suspend Bashar’s government from membership in the Arab League. Saudi Arabia’s involvement extended to leading the coalition against ISIS, demonstrating its active role in addressing regional security challenges.

Saudi Arabia’s Relations with Egypt:
The questioner inquired about specific factors that prompted Saudi Arabia’s decision to distance itself from Mohamed Morsi and the Ikhwan government, and its subsequent support for President Sisi’s government. The question remained unanswered as the video ended, leaving the details of Saudi Arabia’s concerns and motivations regarding Egypt’s political developments unexplored.

Saudi’s Perspective on Mubarak’s Removal:
Saudi Arabia felt that the U.S. stance on Mubarak’s removal was confusing and contradictory. King Abdullah believed that Mubarak had been a strong ally and supported Saudi Arabia for 35 years. The kingdom disagreed with President Obama’s public call for Mubarak to step down.

Saudi’s Engagement with Egypt:
After Mubarak’s resignation, Saudi Arabia provided a $4 billion aid package to Egypt. The kingdom maintained its engagement with President Morsi, including economic support. Saudi Arabia recognized the interim government and its roadmap for a return to normalcy.

Saudi and Turkish Cooperation on Syria:
Saudi Arabia and Turkey share similar views and cooperate on Syria. Intelligence committees were formed between the two countries and others to coordinate activities. Both countries call for the removal of Assad.

Turkey’s Disagreement with the U.S. on ISIS:
Turkey refused to directly participate in the coalition against ISIS. Turkey believes that ISIS is a symptom of the problem, with the root cause being the Assad regime. President Erdogan believes that addressing the Assad regime is essential to effectively dealing with ISIS.

The Crisis of Social Sciences and Humanities in the Arab World:
The Arab world faces a crisis in the social sciences and humanities, with a lack of scientific knowledge and creativity. The region’s education systems have been criticized for promoting technocratic experts in engineering, hard sciences, and business at the expense of social sciences and humanities.

Addressing the Issue in Saudi Arabia:
Saudi Arabia has taken steps to address this issue by establishing new universities with a focus on social sciences and humanities. King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST) is a prestigious graduate program geared towards research science, attracting scholars from around the world. State universities in Saudi Arabia have also been established since 2005, increasing the number from five to 39, all of which include social science and humanities components. Specialized universities like Al-Faisal University and Exeter University for Women in Gender offer social science, humanitarian, and human studies programs.

Saudi-China Relations and Cultural Understanding:
Saudi Arabia recognizes the importance of cultural understanding between China and Saudi Arabia. King Abdullah’s first visit to China as king signaled his desire to prioritize this relationship. Initiatives have been undertaken to increase people-to-people (P2P) understanding between the two countries.

Engagement with China:
Saudi Arabia actively engages with China through high-level visits, conferences, and initiatives like the Paris and China principle. Trade between the two countries has grown exponentially, with Saudi Arabia being China’s largest oil supplier and China being Saudi Arabia’s largest oil customer. Beyond oil, there is significant human engagement, with Saudi private sector individuals investing in factories in China and Chinese companies actively involved in Saudi projects. Chinese expertise is sought in various fields, including labor, middle management, medical resources, and academic institutions. Saudi Arabia and China have ongoing academic collaborations, such as the program between King Faisal Center for Research in Islamic Studies and Shanghai University.

Stance on Iran’s Nuclear Program:
Saudi Arabia’s official policy is to support the establishment of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East, including both Iran and Israel. The kingdom has been actively engaged in international efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Saudi Arabia’s specific response to Iran obtaining a nuclear bomb is not disclosed in this segment of the transcript.

Official Saudi Policy:
Saudi Arabia supports the establishment of a zone free of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) in the Middle East. They believe this zone would contribute to regional peace and security. A conference was planned for December 2012 in Helsinki, Finland, to discuss the zone but was canceled due to a lack of preparation.

Personal Proposals:
Prince Turki al Faisal al Sa’ud proposes adding guarantees from the five recognized nuclear powers (Russia, U.S., U.K., China, and France) to make the zone viable. These guarantees would include: A nuclear umbrella for states in the zone to protect them from threats. Military sanctions against countries developing WMDs.

Challenges:
Negotiations would be complex and would take time, possibly up to five years. Issues such as the Israel-Arab conflict and Iran’s nuclear program would need to be resolved. Israel would need to feel secure and remove its nuclear arsenal. Iran would need to feel safe from threats from the United States and Israel.

Saudi Arabia’s Position on the P5+1 Agreement:
Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states welcomed the interim agreement reached in April or May of last year. They are waiting to see the final results before giving full support.

Turki al Faisal al Sa’ud’s Perspective:
Other countries would want to acquire similar capabilities if Iran obtained them. The P5 plus 1 negotiations with Iran were flawed from the outset. Countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia would be allowed to have enrichment capabilities up to a certain level under the agreement. This allowance of enrichment capability is seen as proliferation.

Proposed Solution:
Implementing a nuclear-free zone to prevent proliferation. This would guarantee non-proliferation in the region.