Al-Sharq al-Awsat, London, October 26
Saudi Arabia is undergoing nothing short of a historic revolution right before our eyes. The courageous speech given by Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman last week, in which he swore to fight all extremism, including radical Islam in the Kingdom, is a true milestone in the Arab world. We must understand the magnitude of the prince’s words—Salman has a vision for Saudi Arabia and is willing to go to great lengths to actualize it. The House of Saud has realized that in order to ensure stability in the country and the future prosperity of generations to come Saudi Arabia must be transformed. In an honest, concise, and brave speech, the prince vowed to do exactly that: to move Saudi Arabia forward irrespective of those who try to stand in the way, including Muslims with extremist interpretations of religious texts. Saudi Arabia is setting an example for other Arab countries by calling for a more moderate form of Islam, with the prince having already announced a series of laws that will allow authorities to better identify and eliminate extremist organizations. Riyadh also cut ties to Qatar for as long as the latter continues supporting radical groups in the region. The Kingdom has launched a zero-tolerance policy towards anyone attempting to hinder the country from becoming an inclusive place for members of all religions and backgrounds. – Abd al-Rahman al-Rashed