Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman discussed several Saudi, regional and international issues in an interview with US-based CBS News TV.
He also commented on the recent attack on Saudi Aramco’s oil facilities, Iran, as well as Yemeni issues and Khashoggi case.
Here is an extract from the interview:
The Saudi-US relationship:
The relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia has been solid and strong over decades. It is based on political, economic, military and security fundamentals in favor of the two countries.
So, it is normal for the Saudi-US relations to face challenges sometimes. However, both countries have overcome such challenges, as the relationship is stronger than any temporary hiccup.
It is based on strong fundamentals; and no one can impact it in light of the Kingdom’s weight and position.
- The attack on the Saudi oil facilities not only targeted the Saudi but also the global energy industry. The world should take a strong and firm action to deter Iran.
- The attack disrupted 5.5 percent of the world's energy needs, including US and China. I believe it is “a foolish act”.
- Saudi Arabia is not willing to instigate war, but will be ready if forced to do it, backed by its people, profile and allies. All options are available.
- The Iranian regime should realize that the pressure of the international community will persist unless it halts its aggressive policies. Any other escalation will lead to a totally different retaliation.
- Saudi Arabia had showed self-discipline as it took the world’s interests into account. The Kingdom will continue to cooperate with its allies and friends, as the attack was not only on Saudi Arabia but on the global economy as well.
- Saudi Aramco showed resilience and high efficiency to the recent issues. All Saudis and Aramco’s customers are proud of the Kingdom’s approach.
- Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s oil output is back to normal in a record time. This is a major breakthrough, as it proves the efficiency of Aramco and the Saudi government.
- The attack on the Saudi facilities was a global incident, condemned by the international community. It will put an end to Iranian aggressive policies going forward.
- The attack was denounced by more than 100 countries, ten official organizations and a myriad of parties, communities and public figures, which underlines the Kingdom’s position. The biggest loser is the Iranian regime and its allies.
- The Kingdom’s dignity prevails and security is a red line. In addition, the security and stability of Saudis fall within our top priority.
- Similar Iranian attempts will not go unanswered. The international community is highly engaged in such matters. Everyone has a high conviction that pressure on Iran should continue and penalties should be aggravated.
- The Kingdom has shot down more than 200 ballistic missiles and over 200 drones. This was an unprecedented success.
The Yemeni affair
- Saudi Arabia is the biggest supporter to Yemen. The Kingdom’s support to “legitimate” Yemeni government has prevented the country from turning into a new Iraq and a terrorism hub.
- If intended, Houthis could turn into a political element that goes in harmony with other Yemenis, only when they halt their dependency on Iran.
- The Kingdom always welcomes peace and is ready to reach political solutions, if Houthis prove their intent to stop serving the Iranian agenda.
- Driven by its regional and international role, Saudi Arabia has supported the legitimacy of the Yemini government and saved the country from chaos and terror, so as to ensure security in the region and the Kingdom.
Khashoggi murder
- The Kingdom again vows to ensure justice in the case of Jamal Khashoggi.
- The murder of Jamal Khashoggi is a heinous crime. The Kingdom has undertaken structural reforms within its security and intelligence institutions to prevent similar crimes in the future.
- Investigations and trials are ongoing. Convicted persons will be punished, regardless of their positions.
Internal reforms in Saudi Arabia.
- The Kingdom has made a significant progress in terms of reforms and a lot of work is yet to be done. Saudi Arabia urges its friends and neighbors to visit the Kingdom and witness these achievements.
- Saudi Arabia has a promising future and an ambitious outlook. War is its last option. The Kingdom will continue achieving comprehensive development in all fields to maintain a leading position. It is keen to provide various opportunities to the Saudi youth and provide an enabling investment environment for all citizens.
The issue of detainees
- People were detained as they committed crimes against the interests of their country and fellow citizens.
- Law shall be respected, and justice will eventually prevail as probes are underway.
- The Kingdom denounces torture and those involved in such acts will be strongly punished.
- The Kingdom’s political and security systems have never exercised torture or intimidation towards detainees, prisoners or their relatives. These rumors are being spread by hostile parties aiming at influencing the Saudi society.
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