Prince Turki Al Faisal (Saudi Arabia) (May 2022)

Prince Turki Al Faisal (Saudi Arabia Former Government Official) – Frankly Speaking | Arab News (May 2022)

Chapters

00:00:00 Saudi-U.S. Relations: Navigating Ups and Downs

U.S.-Saudi Relations:
Prince Turki al-Faisal criticized the U.S. reaction to a comedy sketch lampooning President Biden and Vice President Harris on Saudi television, deeming it unfair and thin-skinned. He emphasized the strategic nature of the U.S.-Saudi relationship, acknowledging ups and downs over the years. Al-Faisal expressed disappointment with President Biden’s actions, including stopping joint operations against the Houthi-led rebellion in Yemen, not meeting with the Crown Prince, and withdrawing anti-aircraft missiles during Houthi attacks. The Crown Prince described the current relationship as 90% aligned, with 10% open for discussion. Al-Faisal hopes to overcome the current downturn as they have in the past.

Saudi Sentiment and Perceived Betrayal:
Saudis generally do not feel betrayed by the U.S., but disappointed at being let down during a time when they believed cooperation was essential. The Iranian influence in Yemen, directed by the Houthis, is seen as a joint danger to the stability and security of the region. Delisting the Houthis as a terrorist organization by President Biden has emboldened them, leading to increased attacks on Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Saudi Arabia has consistently called for a ceasefire and a peaceful solution to the Yemeni conflict, which the Houthis have ignored or opposed.

Importance of Strategic Relationship and Oil Production:
Al-Faisal emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S.-Saudi relationship, appreciating American declarations of support against external aggression. He called for more tangible actions to strengthen the leadership relationship between the two countries. Al-Faisal attributed the current oil production issues in the U.S. to their own energy policies, including curtailing oil and gas production, which contributed to higher prices. OPEC Plus, established after the COVID-19 crisis, aims to stabilize oil prices and avoid instability. The recent decision by OPEC Plus to incrementally increase oil production is a response to current energy sector difficulties. Security issues, insurance rates due to the Russia-Ukraine war, and European and American sanctions on Russian oil have also contributed to the increase in oil prices.

Response to Hillary Clinton’s Comments:
Al-Faisal criticized former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s suggestion of a carrot and stick policy with Saudi Arabia. He asserted that Saudi Arabia is a sovereign country and should be treated fairly and squarely, not like schoolchildren. Al-Faisal expressed hope that such statements would cease.

00:11:33 Saudi Foreign Policy During the Ukrainian-Russian Conflict

00:14:22 Saudi Arabia's Diplomatic Role and Stance on International Issues

Saudi Arabia’s Support for Ukraine and Mediation Efforts with Russia:
Saudi Arabia has contributed to the United Nations fund supporting Ukrainian refugees in Europe, demonstrating its humanitarian commitment. The Kingdom’s offer to mediate between Ukraine and Russia is an expression of friendship towards both nations, with whom it has maintained excellent relations.

Saudi Arabia’s Criticism of International Hypocrisy Towards Israel:
Prince Turki al-Faisal calls out international hypocrisy in treating Israel differently from Russia, highlighting that aggression is unacceptable regardless of the perpetrator. He questions why sanctions imposed on Russia have not been applied to Israel despite its similar actions, such as the invasion and occupation of Arab territories.

Ineffectiveness of Normalizing Ties with Israel for Palestinian Resolution:
Saudi Arabia’s experience and observations show that appeasing Israel has not led to positive changes in its treatment of Palestinians. The occupation, imprisonment, attacks, assassinations, and land theft continue despite peace agreements with Arab nations.

Saudi Arabia’s Conditions for Normalizing Ties with Israel:
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry has stated that normalization of ties with Israel will only occur if a Palestinian state with its capital in East Jerusalem is established and a fair solution for Palestinian refugees is reached. Prince Turki al-Faisal acknowledges that international positions can change over time, expressing hope for growing awareness and progress in addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Prince Turki al-Faisal’s Perspective on Afghanistan:
The sudden withdrawal of the United States from Afghanistan and the Taliban’s return to power surprised Prince Turki al-Faisal, who questions the lack of a stable continuity plan. He draws parallels between the Soviet and Western attempts to transform Afghanistan, both of which failed due to the Afghan people’s rejection of external impositions on their culture and interests.

00:21:09 Afghanistan and Saudi Foreign Policy

00:26:22 Yemen Ceasefire: Challenges and a Shift in Political Dynamics

Abstract

Navigating Complexities: Insight into Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Relations and Regional Dynamics

The intricate landscape of Saudi Arabia’s foreign relations, as articulated by Prince Turki al-Faisal, reveals a multifaceted scenario marked by strained U.S.-Saudi relations, concerns over Iran’s influence in Yemen, and perspectives on global conflicts such as the Ukrainian-Russian war and Israel’s actions in the Middle East. This article delves into the Saudi viewpoint on these key international issues, exploring the Kingdom’s stance on energy policies, mediation efforts, and regional stability. The insights from Prince al-Faisal not only shed light on the current state of U.S.-Saudi relations, which he describes as at an “all-time low,” but also offer a broader understanding of Saudi Arabia’s role and position in addressing global and regional challenges.

Main Ideas and Expansion:

Strained U.S.-Saudi Relations and Blame Apportionment:

Prince al-Faisal expressed disappointment over the decline in U.S.-Saudi relations, which has historically been a collaborative strategic relationship. He critiqued the U.S. reaction to a Saudi comedy sketch and pointed out the challenges faced due to perceived lack of American support and cooperation. Al-Faisal highlighted the strain caused by President Biden’s policy decisions, such as halting joint operations in Yemen, not engaging with the Crown Prince, and removing anti-aircraft missiles amid Houthi attacks. Despite these issues, there is hope for overcoming this downturn, reflecting on the past resilience of U.S.-Saudi relations.

Saudi Public Sentiment and Perceived Betrayal:

The Saudi public, according to al-Faisal, feels let down by the U.S., particularly in its approach to Iranian influence in Yemen. While not feeling betrayed, there is a strong desire for more robust collaboration against shared threats like the Houthis, who have intensified their attacks following the U.S. decision to delist them as a terrorist organization. Saudi Arabia remains committed to seeking a peaceful resolution in Yemen, even as efforts have been met with resistance from the Houthis.

Iran’s Influence in Yemen and Regional Stability:

Al-Faisal’s concerns about Iran’s support for the Houthi rebels in Yemen highlight the destabilizing impact of this backing. He advocates for a joint U.S.-Saudi effort to counter the Houthis and bring stability to the region, emphasizing the need for collaboration in facing this challenge.

U.S. Energy Policy and Oil Production Dynamics:

Al-Faisal discussed the strategic importance of U.S.-Saudi relations, emphasizing the need for tangible actions to strengthen ties. He attributed the high oil prices to U.S. energy policies that curtailed domestic oil and gas production. The role of OPEC Plus in stabilizing the oil market was highlighted, showing the complexities of global energy dynamics. The decision to incrementally increase oil production is a response to the energy sector’s challenges, influenced by security issues and sanctions on Russian oil due to the Russia-Ukraine war.

Addressing the Energy Crisis and Security Concerns:

The incremental increase in oil production by OPEC Plus, as pointed out by al-Faisal, represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the energy crisis, considering security concerns and the impact of sanctions on Russian oil.

Carrot and Stick Approach: Saudi Arabia’s Perspective:

Reacting to suggestions of a “carrot and stick” policy, al-Faisal insisted on fair and respectful treatment of Saudi Arabia as a sovereign nation. He called for constructive dialogue rather than condescending statements, criticizing former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s suggestion and hoping for an end to such remarks.

Saudi Arabia’s Position on the Ukrainian-Russian Conflict:

Saudi Arabia’s stance on the Ukrainian-Russian conflict showcases its complex international relations. The Kingdom’s efforts to mediate and maintain dialogue with both parties, alongside criticism of Western media and the UN’s selective sanctions, demonstrate a nuanced approach to global issues.

Saudi Arabia’s Stance on Israel:

Prince Turki al-Faisal highlighted the international double standards in treating Israel differently from Russia. He emphasized that aggression is unacceptable, regardless of the perpetrator, questioning the lack of sanctions against Israel. Saudi Arabia has consistently called for a fair solution for Palestinians and the establishment of a Palestinian state with its capital in East Jerusalem as prerequisites for normalization with Israel.

Saudi Arabia’s Reflections on Afghanistan:

Al-Faisal expressed surprise at the abrupt U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, emphasizing the complexity of nation-building efforts and the need for humanitarian aid. He drew parallels between the Soviet and Western attempts to transform Afghanistan, noting their failure due to the Afghan people’s rejection of external impositions.

Saudi Arabia-Turkey Relations:

There is optimism for improved bilateral relations with Turkey, highlighting potential for economic cooperation and historical ties.

Yemen Peace Prospects:

The emphasis on a mechanism to enforce ceasefires and the need for a lasting peace deal in Yemen reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional stability.

Additional Perspectives from the Supplemental Update:

The Taliban’s Promises and Cautious Approach:

Saudi Arabia is closely observing the Taliban’s actions and commitments, particularly their promise to uphold human rights and prevent groups from harming other countries.

Improved Relations with Turkey:

Historical ties, family connections, and shared economic interests form the basis of Saudi Arabia’s renewed cooperation with Turkey, focusing on trade, construction, and development projects.

Challenges in Achieving Lasting Peace in Yemen:

Achieving a lasting peace deal in Yemen requires an effective ceasefire enforcement mechanism that addresses previous violations.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Post-War Yemen:

As Yemen’s neighbor, Saudi Arabia will focus on providing humanitarian aid and reconstruction support, aligning its efforts with the circumstances and needs of Yemen.

The Need for a Strong Implementation Mechanism for the Ceasefire in Yemen:

To ensure a successful ceasefire in Yemen, an international mechanism, supported by the UN, must be established to enforce and monitor compliance. This mechanism is crucial for accountability and preventing violations.

Political Shift in Yemen:

Recent political developments in Yemen offer hope for resolving the long-standing conflict. This emphasizes the importance of achieving lasting peace and the critical role that an effective enforcement mechanism plays in this process.

The insights from Prince Turki al-Faisal provide a comprehensive understanding of Saudi Arabia’s foreign relations and its role in regional and global dynamics. The Kingdom’s perspectives on U.S.-Saudi relations, the conflicts in Yemen and Ukraine, energy policies, and its stance on Israel and Afghanistan reveal the complexities of navigating these intricate issues. Saudi Arabia’s efforts in mediation, its calls for fair treatment and constructive dialogue, and its commitment to regional stability and humanitarian aid underscore its pivotal role in shaping the geopolitical landscape. The challenges and prospects in these areas highlight the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to balance its strategic interests with global and regional stability.

Notes by: TransistorZero

Prince Turki Al Faisal (Saudi Arabia Former Government Official) – Frankly Speaking | Arab News (May 2022)

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