Prince Turki Al-Faisal’s Key Remarks to Gulf States: Attack on Qatar is a Wake-Up Call

Kokcha News Agency: Prince Turki Al-Faisal, the former head of Saudi intelligence, stated during an event in Riyadh on Sunday night that Israel’s attack on Qatar is a wake-up call for all GCC countries. He emphasized that the attack raises questions about the credibility of alliances and expressed regret that such an incident occurred under the shadow of the largest U.S. military base in Qatar.

Prince Turki stressed that threats from Israel necessitate a reevaluation of the nature of these threats and the strategies and policies of GCC countries to achieve balance using all possible means. He warned that Israel should not be allowed to act with impunity.

He further noted that the success of GCC countries in realizing their economic projects and maintaining stability will not be complete without a stable and secure international and regional environment. He asserted that these countries are in a position to play a constructive role in leading the region toward peace and security.

Prince Turki criticized the U.S., stating that it has “fallen from the role of a transparent mediator to that of a powerful ally of Israel.” He accused the U.S. of handing over Iraq to Iran and corrupt ideological and tribal groups after the invasion of Iraq.

Given the Western-dominated geopolitical landscape of the region over the decades, Prince Turki suggested that it is natural for America’s allies and friends in the region to reconsider their thoughts and future. Despite these developments, GCC countries have continued to uphold their commitments to establishing the best strategic partnerships with the U.S. and remain committed to this approach.

He argued that for U.S. President Donald Trump to be a peacemaker, he must correct past U.S. mistakes regarding peace and security for its allies. However, he warned that without addressing the injustice against the Palestinian people, all achievements remain under threat.

Prince Turki emphasized that the Palestinian issue is of paramount importance. For nearly eight decades, the Middle East has moved from one war to another, from one disaster to another, and from one international resolution to another, yet justice remains elusive.

He stated that the October 7 attack by Hamas was a clear indication of the international community’s failure to resolve this issue fairly. He urged Americans to stop using fallacies such as recognizing a Palestinian state as a reward for Hamas, arguing that without occupation, there would be no resistance.

Prince Turki highlighted that Saudi Arabia has two main regional peace initiatives: King Fahd’s 1981 plan and King Abdullah’s 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.