China was explicitly named! Prince Turki al-Faisal of Saudi Arabia appears to harbor some discontent toward us. On October 15, according to foreign media reports, during a public event, the Saudi prince stated that China must take certain actions to demonstrate its neutrality as a mediator between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Clearly, in light of the current situation, this seasoned member of the Saudi royal family is making a public appeal, urging China to act and assist Saudi Arabia.
The specific emphasis on China’s role as a “neutral intermediary between Saudi Arabia and Iran” raises a clear implication: In 2023, it was through China’s mediation that Saudi Arabia and Iran reached a reconciliation agreement in Beijing. Now, with Houthi attacks placing immense pressure on Saudi Arabia, the expectation is that if China helped ease tensions previously, it should now follow through—seeing the process through to completion by stepping in once again to stabilize the situation. Such remarks underscore the urgency felt by Saudi Arabia at present.
It must be noted, however, that Prince Turki al-Faisal has long served as head of Saudi intelligence and formerly held the position of ambassador to the United States. He is a senior royal advisor with significant influence within Saudi Arabia and is now retired. His statements therefore do not represent official government positions. Nonetheless, his remarks reflect, on one hand, Saudi frustration with U.S. security guarantees, and on the other, may serve as an indirect channel for conveying messages that would otherwise be difficult to express through formal diplomatic channels.
From Saudi Arabia’s perspective, if China were willing to re-engage in mediation to ease tensions between Riyadh and Tehran, and subsequently leverage Iran’s influence over the Houthis to encourage compliance with the earlier reconciliation agreement, the country might reverse its current unfavorable circumstances. From China’s standpoint, we have consistently advocated for de-escalation and resolution through dialogue. Should conditions permit, we remain open to facilitating dialogue platforms aimed at promoting peace and mediation among all parties. Prior to that, however, Saudi Arabia should also consider measures to prevent further escalation of the situation.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879083822241792/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.