The Four Main Clerics:
Al-Shafi’i, Al-Maliki, Ibn Hanbal, and Abu Hanifa were the four main clerics who interpreted the teachings of the Prophet and the Quran according to their times. They lived between 100 to 200 years after the Prophet Muhammad died. Their interpretations were based on their understanding of the Prophet’s practices and the needs of the society that evolved over the years.

Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahab:
In the mid-18th century, Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahab emerged as a cleric who sought to study beyond what he received from his teachers in Central Arabia. He traveled to Medina and Basra to acquire knowledge and skills from teachers in the Prophet’s Mosque and in Basra, a historical center of scholarship and learning in the Muslim world.

Historical Context:
In the mid-18th century, Arabia was divided into city-states. The Ottoman Empire had significant influence on the coastal regions. Religious practices in central Arabia had deviated from the original teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.

Mohammed bin Abdul Wahab’s Preaching:
Mohammed bin Abdul Wahab was a cleric and scholar who followed the teachings of Ibn Hanbal, emphasizing strict Unitarianism and adherence to religious duties. He preached against practices such as grave worship, saint worship, and supplication to objects or people other than God.

Initial Opposition and Refuge in Al-Aina:
Bin Abdul Wahab’s teachings faced resistance from his father, brother, and grandfather, who accepted the social norms that had evolved over time. He found support from a ruler in Al-Aina, where he began spreading his teachings, attracting followers from surrounding villages.

The Alliance with Muhammad bin Saud:
A nearby tribe opposed Bin Abdul Wahab’s teachings, leading to his departure from Al-Aina. He sought refuge in Ad-Dariya, where the ruler, Muhammad bin Saud, accepted his teachings. Bin Saud and Bin Abdul Wahab formed an alliance, with Bin Saud providing protection and Bin Abdul Wahab promoting his teachings.

Expansion of Influence:
The mosque in Ad-Dariya became a center for spreading Bin Abdul Wahab’s teachings, attracting people from other regions. Bin Saud defended Bin Abdul Wahab from opponents, leading to conflicts with neighboring towns and rulers. The influence of Bin Saud and Bin Abdul Wahab grew in central Arabia, causing concern among the Ottomans.

Ottoman Opposition:
The Ottomans, who had influence in coastal Arabia, viewed the spread of Bin Abdul Wahab’s teachings as a threat to their authority. They instructed their governors in Baghdad and Egypt to suppress this new movement. Bin Abdul Wahab’s teachings were seen as innovative and different from the interpretations allowed by the Ottomans in their own territories.

Definition and Stigmatization by the Ottoman State:
The Ottoman state defined Wahhabism as a new sect or religion and considered it a heresy. They issued religious fatwas from Istanbul, denouncing it and calling upon Muslims to oppose it.

Ibn Saud and Ibn Abdul Wahab’s Expansion:
Ibn Saud and Ibn Abdul Wahab expanded their influence over the Arabian Peninsula, including Mecca and Medina. This interpretation of Islam spread through pilgrimage, trade, and people traveling.

Ottoman Military Campaigns and the Fall of the First Saudi State:
The Ottomans tasked Muhammad Ali of Egypt to launch military campaigns against the al-Sauds. The first Saudi state was defeated, and Darayya, the capital, was destroyed. The head of the Saudi state and Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Wahab’s great-grandson were executed in Istanbul.

Wahhabi Stigma and Teachings:
The Wahhabi stigma became attached to the Unitarian creed preached by Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Wahab. His teachings, however, did not differ from those of Ibn Hanbal, an accepted interpreter of Sunni Islam.

Attempts to Revive the Stigma:
During the rise of the third Saudi state, attempts were made to revive the Wahhabism stigma. King Abdulaziz invited people to see the practices for themselves and held debates between Najdi and local clerics.

Agreement and Acceptance:
The Najdi and local clerics came to an agreement, accepting each other as being within the fold of Islam. There was no new sect introduced, and the Wahhabi stigma was gradually dispelled.

Radicalization of Islamic Teachings:
Individuals within the Sunni Islamic community, particularly followers of Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Wahab’s teachings in Central Arabia and modern-day Saudi Arabia, went beyond his original teachings. They developed their own extreme views on jihad, Islamic practices, and societal norms such as veiling and physical attributes of a Muslim.

Nurturing of Radical Ideas:
Societies like Egypt condemned these radical interpretations and practices, leading to imprisonment or execution of those promoting them for treason or disrupting social order. This created an underground movement among some radical groups.

Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan:
In 1979, the Soviets invaded Afghanistan, which became a turning point in the radicalization process.

The Mujahideen and the Jihad:
The struggle against the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan was known as the Jihad. Afghan fighters were called Jihadis by the media, including in the Muslim world. Muslim volunteers from around the world came to help the Mujahideen in their fight against the Soviets. The volunteers were based in Pakistan, mainly in Peshawar and Quetta.

The Formation of Al-Qaeda:
In the early 1980s, three individuals came together in Peshawar: Osama bin Laden, Ayman al-Dawahiri, and Abdullah Azzam. Bin Laden was a Saudi from a prominent family who left university to join the Mujahideen. Al-Dawahiri was an Egyptian doctor with a background in the Muslim Brotherhood who had developed his own extremist views on Islam. Azzam was a Palestinian from the Muslim Brotherhood who believed that only Islamic forces should oppose occupiers and invaders.

Al-Qaeda’s Mission and Activities:
The three men established Al-Qaeda, an organization aimed at providing services and advice to Muslim volunteers coming to join the Mujahideen. Al-Qaeda offered fighters to the Mujahideen, but the Afghans were cautious about involving non-Afghans in military operations due to language, ethnicity, and social differences. Al-Qaeda primarily provided humanitarian aid to the Mujahideen and kept the volunteers in camps in Peshawar and Quetta. Bin Laden and his associates later became involved in supporting different factions of the Mujahideen as they began to fight each other after repelling the Soviet invasion.

Friction and Internal Conflict:
Friction grew between Bin Laden, al-Dawahiri, and Azzam as they supported different Mujahideen factions in the internal conflict. Azzam was assassinated by one of the Mujahideen groups he opposed. Bin Laden and al-Dawahiri managed to avoid harm by offering assistance to both sides through volunteers and financial support. Bin Laden’s ambition to play a more significant role in the conflict developed as he gained financial resources from his family and contributions from supporters.

Bin Laden’s Anti-Colonialism and Opposition to American Support for Israel:
Bin Laden embraced anti-colonialism, particularly focusing on Israel’s occupation of Palestine and America’s support for Israel. He saw this as a conspiracy against the Muslim world and identified American and Zionist forces as the primary adversaries.

Al-Qaeda’s Declaration and Identification of Muslim Supporters:
The first public declaration by Bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri established Al-Qaeda and outlined their struggle against the American Zionist conspiracy. They recognized that America and Zionism had Muslim supporters and labeled them as hypocrites who should be fought alongside American and Zionist forces.

Saudi Arabia’s Call for International Support against Iraq’s Invasion of Kuwait:
In 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait, prompting Saudi Arabia to call for international assistance. American, British, French, and other forces deployed to Saudi Arabia to oppose the invasion.

Bin Laden’s Opposition to Foreign Forces in Saudi Arabia:
Bin Laden perceived the presence of foreign forces in Saudi Arabia, particularly Americans, as a desecration of the holy land. He began preaching against the American presence in Arabia upon his return in 1990 and faced questioning by authorities.

Bin Laden’s Departure from Saudi Arabia and Move to Sudan:
In 1993, Bin Laden left Saudi Arabia and initially returned to Afghanistan, but the ongoing civil war hindered his activities. He then moved to Sudan, which supported revolutionary movements worldwide and aimed to become a hub for international revolutionary forces.

Sudan’s Support for Revolutionary Movements and Bin Laden’s Involvement:
Sudan provided sustenance and support to various revolutionary groups, including Bin Laden’s Al-Qaeda, various Marxist factions, and other revolutionary movements from around the world. These groups gathered in Khartoum to coordinate their opposition to neo-imperialist forces led by America and its allies.

International Pressure on Sudan and Bin Laden’s Offer to Saudi Arabia:
Sudan faced international pressure and was placed on the US terrorist list for supporting terrorism. In 1995, Sudan offered to extradite Bin Laden to Saudi Arabia on the condition that he would not be prosecuted. Saudi Arabia declined due to Bin Laden’s previous terrorist acts in the kingdom and the commitment to uphold the rule of law.

Bin Laden’s Return to Afghanistan and the Rise of the Taliban:
Bin Laden fled Sudan to Afghanistan after facing pressure from the Sudanese government. The Taliban, a new element in Afghanistan, gained influence and control over most of the country.

Saudi Recognition of the Taliban and Concerns about Bin Laden:
Saudi Arabia recognized the Taliban due to their control over Afghanistan and to maintain contact with developments. The kingdom warned the Taliban about Bin Laden’s presence and his potential threats against Saudi Arabia.

Taliban’s Failure to Control Bin Laden’s Activities:
Despite assurances from the Taliban, Bin Laden continued to operate against Saudi Arabia. The kingdom pressured the Taliban to stop Bin Laden’s harmful activities.

Prince Turki Alfaisal’s Mission to Meet Mullah Omar:
In June 1998, Prince Turki Alfaisal met with Mullah Omar to discuss Bin Laden’s extradition. They agreed to establish a joint committee to address the judicial aspects of releasing Bin Laden.

Delays and the US Embassy Bombings:
The committee formation faced delays, and Mullah Omar sent an envoy to assure Saudi Arabia of his efforts. In August 1998, the US embassy bombings in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam occurred, attributed to Bin Laden. US President Clinton issued an ultimatum to the Taliban to hand over Bin Laden.

Key Players and Organizations:
Bin Laden: Leader of Al-Qaeda Clinton: President of the United States Mullah Omar: Leader of the Taliban Abu Musab al-Zarqawi: Leader of Al-Qaeda in Iraq Abu Musab al-Sartawi: Eliminated by American bombing Al-Baghdadi: Head of the Islamic State

Background:
Following the 9/11 attacks, Clinton launched missile strikes against Bin Laden’s camp in Kandahar, but Bin Laden survived. The Taliban refused to hand over Bin Laden, leading to a breakdown in relations between Saudi Arabia and the Taliban. Extremist groups emerged in the region, including Al-Qaeda and its affiliates.

American Invasion of Iraq:
The American invasion of Iraq created a vacuum, allowing extremist groups to regroup. Al-Qaeda elements from Afghanistan fled to Iran, where they received support and safe haven. Abu Musab al-Zarqawi established Al-Qaeda in Iraq and recruited fighters to oppose the American occupation.

Prisoner Releases and the Rise of Al-Baghdadi:
American forces captured and imprisoned many extremists in Iraq, including Abu Musab al-Sartawi and Al-Baghdadi. Al-Sartawi was eliminated through a bombing, while Al-Baghdadi was released by Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Al-Baghdadi formed alliances with former Saddam Hussein loyalists in prison.

Formation of the Islamic State:
The Islamic State emerged as a successor to Al-Qaeda in Iraq, aiming to establish a caliphate. The group declared itself the successor to historical Islamic empires and targeted non-Muslims and dissenting Muslims. The Islamic State’s interpretation of Islam differs significantly from traditional teachings, promoting violence and a hierarchical structure for jihad.

Differences from Traditional Islamic Teachings:
The Islamic State’s call for a caliphate contradicts the teachings of Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Wahab, who focused on religious practices and rejecting non-acceptable customs. The group’s interpretation of jihad allows individuals to wage holy war without authorization from community leaders, contradicting Islamic tradition. The philosophy of al-tawhush, derived from a modern cleric’s writings, sanctions brutalization, killing of innocent civilians, and destruction of non-Muslim property.

The Origins of Wahhabism and its Misinterpretations:
“Wahhabism” is a term used to describe the teachings of Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdul Wahhab, but it’s a derogatory label coined by opponents of the movement. The teachings of Sheikh Mohammed and Abdul Muhammad emphasize respect for the human soul, contrary to the brutal and vicious acts committed by Daesh and ISIS.

Saudi Textbooks and Religious Extremism:
Saudi textbooks do not endorse extreme interpretations of Islam, but instead focus on practical aspects of religious practices like prayers and fasting. Extremist groups like Daesh and ISIS may use Saudi textbooks for convenience, but that does not imply endorsement or support from Saudi Arabia.

Religious Texts and Extremist Justifications:
Extremist groups worldwide, such as the Ku Klux Klan in America, Hindu and Buddhist practitioners in India, and Buddhist monks in Myanmar, misuse religious texts to justify their actions. The misuse of religious texts for extremist purposes is not unique to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia’s Religious Diversity:
Saudi Arabia’s religious landscape is diverse and not solely defined by the teachings of Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Wahhab. The Committee for Senior Ulama, the highest religious authority in Saudi Arabia, includes scholars from different religious schools of thought, such as Maliki and Shafi’i.

Responding to Allegations of State-Sponsored Terrorism:
Allegations of state-sponsored terrorism by Saudi Arabia are often raised in the media. Saudi Arabia strongly denies these allegations and emphasizes its commitment to combating terrorism and extremism.

Saudi Arabia’s History of Terrorism:
Saudi Arabia has faced terrorism since the 1950s, mainly from leftist communist groups who viewed the country as an enemy due to its Muslim identity and alliance with the West. Embassies were attacked, hostages were taken, and prominent figures were assassinated.

The Rise of Islamist Groups:
Islamist groups emerged in the Arab world, beginning with Egypt under Sadat’s rule. Saudi Arabia became a target of these groups, including Al-Qaeda led by Osama bin Laden.

Bin Laden’s Proposal to Expel Soviets from South Yemen:
In 1989, bin Laden approached Prince Turki Alfaisal, then Director of Intelligence, proposing to expel the Soviets from South Yemen after their withdrawal from Afghanistan. Alfaisal declined the offer, advising bin Laden to refrain from such actions.

Bin Laden’s Proposal to Repel Saddam Hussein from Kuwait:
In 1990, during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, bin Laden approached Prince Sultan, the Defense Minister, with a similar proposal to repel Saddam Hussein’s forces. Prince Sultan also declined the offer, emphasizing that it was not the right time for such actions.

Saudi Arabia’s Contribution to Islamic Institutions:
Saudi Arabia’s financial aid to Islamic institutions worldwide originated from requests from those communities. Support was provided with the knowledge and approval of local governments, not through secretive channels.

The Muslim Brotherhood’s Influence:
Extremist groups like the Muslim Brotherhood often filled positions in mosques, schools, and hospitals in communities that received Saudi aid due to their availability and expertise.

Senator McCain’s Request to Stop Aid to Madrasas:
After 2001, Senator John McCain expressed concerns about Saudi Arabia’s support for madrasas that promoted extremist ideologies. Prince Alfaisal assured Senator McCain that Saudi Arabia would gladly cooperate and cease such support if provided with a list of the specific madrasas in question.

Prince Turki Alfaisal’s Response to a Request for a List of Madrasas:
Prince Alfaisal was asked by a US Senator to provide a list of madrasas operating in Saudi Arabia. His staff member informed him that the list was confidential and could not be disclosed. Prince Alfaisal believes that the Saudi government does not have a list of madrasas and that the information was likely obtained from a source or intelligence agency.

Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Combating Extremism:
Prince Alfaisal emphasized that Saudi Arabia is committed to combating extremism and does not support any groups or activities that promote terrorist ideologies. The Saudi government is dedicated to opposing extremist ideologies and would prosecute anyone who provides financial or in-kind support to such groups. Prince Alfaisal stated that the Kingdom is actively working to rehabilitate individuals who have been exposed to extremist views.

Saudi Arabia’s Response to the 9/11 Attacks:
Prince Alfaisal was heading the intelligence service when the 9/11 attacks occurred. He recalls that Saudi Arabia immediately condemned the attacks and pledged its support to the United States in the fight against terrorism. The Saudi government has taken various steps to counter terrorism, including strengthening border security, cracking down on extremist groups, and promoting interfaith dialogue.

Saudi Awareness of Potential Terrorist Acts Before 9/11:
Intelligence communities, including Saudi and American, were aware of potential terrorist acts by al-Qaeda, but lacked specific details. Prince Turki Alfaisal, former Saudi intelligence chief, was alerted to the possibility of an attack but could not pinpoint its location or timing.

Initial Reaction to 9/11:
Prince Alfaisal initially believed the Serbian people were responsible for the attacks due to the recent loss of Kosovo. Al-Qaeda’s involvement and Bin Laden’s admission of responsibility became clear later.

Shock and Reevaluation in the Muslim World:
The attacks caused shock and disbelief among Muslims, challenging assumptions about their religion and humanity. Governments, including Saudi Arabia, began identifying potential sympathizers and reevaluating religious and educational discourse to address extremist ideologies.

Combating Terrorism Post-9/11:
Saudi Arabia faced a wave of terrorist attacks by Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), targeting residential compounds, government buildings, and security personnel. The government implemented security measures and encouraged public participation in reporting suspicious activities, leading to the prevention of potential terrorist acts.

The Mohammed bin Nayef Center:
The center was established to reach out to individuals susceptible to extremism and guide them away from radical ideologies.

Mistakes in the War on Terrorism:
Prince Turki criticizes America’s approach to the war on terrorism after 2001, which he sees as an “unstoppable and never-ending story.”

Identifying the Enemy:
He suggests that the focus should have been on defeating Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaeda specifically, rather than engaging in a broad and open-ended war on terrorism.

Missed Opportunities:
Prince Turki points out two missed opportunities: when Bin Laden was on the run in Afghanistan in 2002-2003 and when he was in Tora Bora. He believes that if Bin Laden had been captured or killed at these times, it could have marked a significant victory in the war on terrorism.

Mistakes in Iraq:
He criticizes the decision to invade Iraq, which he sees as based on fabricated intelligence about weapons of mass destruction.

Consequences of the Iraq War:
The dismantling of Iraq’s bureaucracy after the invasion created a power vacuum that allowed extremist groups, such as Al-Qaeda and Iran, to gain influence in the country.

Syria and the Red Line:
Prince Turki criticizes President Obama’s “red line” statement in Syria, which he believes led to the current situation where Russia, Iran, and Bashar al-Assad continue to have significant influence in the country.

Neglect of the Palestinian Issue:
He emphasizes the importance of addressing the Palestinian issue, as it is often used as a rallying point by various groups in the region.

Prince Turki’s Appreciation for Kasia and Nelika:
Prince Turki Alfaisal expressed gratitude to Kasia and Nelika, acknowledging their role as a valuable channel of communication between the parties involved. He highlighted the significance of their contributions to the ongoing dialogue.

Documentation of the Meeting:
The Prince emphasized the importance of having documentary proof of the meeting, considering that it was being televised. He noted that the existence of such proof would prevent any future attempts to deny the occurrence of the meeting.

Invitation to Enjoy the Visit:
Prince Turki extended a warm invitation to Kasia and Nelika, encouraging them to enjoy their stay and their travels. He expressed his hope that they would have a pleasant experience during their visit.

Prince Turki’s Concluding Remarks:
The Prince reiterated his appreciation for their presence and encouraged them to enjoy their time. He emphasized the importance of the meeting and the value of the ongoing dialogue.