Prince Turki and the Saudi View on War and Stability

Amid the intensity of regional commentary, a more reflective tone emerges—one that mirrors how many in Saudi society engage with the shifting dynamics around them.
In a recent interview wit Der Spiegel, the former head of Saudi intelligence—who held the post for over two decades—offers more than a political view. His words provide a window into how many Saudis process the region’s unfolding realities. He speaks with the authority of a seasoned official and the tone of someone shaped by decades of observation, diplomacy, and national memory. That has long been his strength—and it shows.

What makes this interview notable is not only his experience but also his manner of expression: measured, cautious, and grounded in a nuanced understanding of regional complexity. It is a tone familiar to many Saudis—less about positioning, more about calculation and awareness.

While media coverage of the war has often been dominated by louder voices and reactive narratives, little attention has been given to how Saudis interpret the conflict. Beyond a few official statements, public commentary has remained minimal. But that should not be mistaken for disengagement. On the contrary, many Saudis follow such developments closely—keenly aware of the region’s long history of instability, the fragility of alliances, and the far-reaching consequences for the Gulf. A glance at social media reveals people paying attention, thinking critically, and forming their own views.

This interview does not seek headlines or controversy. It offers something more valuable: a perspective that lies somewhere between official rhetoric and private concern. It reflects a mode of thinking that runs deep in Saudi society—quiet, analytical, and often left unsaid. It is not about taking sides; it is about understanding how a country at the centre of the region sees the storm unfolding around it.

I chose to share this piece not as a political endorsement, but because it reflects a mindset that deserves more attention. For those seeking to understand the region beyond surface commentary, it is worth reading.

Read the full interview (in German) via Der Spiegel:
https://www.spiegel.de/ausland/saudi-arabiens-ex-geheimdienstchef-turki-ueber-krieg-in-nahost-in-iran-schliessen-sich-jetzt-die-reihen-a-7ac1cefd-6a7c-4365-a3d8-2ed1b0fd1b93?sara_ref=re-em-em-sh

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