Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Saudi Arabia's Intelligence Chief Steps Down

Prince Bandar bin Sultan gestures as he speaks to the media during a news conference at Tufts University's Fletcher School in Medford, Massachusetts October 23, 2003. Credit: Reuters/Jim Bourg/Files

Saudi Spy Chief, Architect Of Syria Policy, Replaced -- Reuters

(Reuters) - Saudi Arabian intelligence chief Prince Bandar bin Sultan, the architect of Riyadh's attempts to bring down Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, has been removed from his post, state media reported on Tuesday.

His departure, months after he was quoted warning of a "major shift" from the United States over its Middle East policy, may help to smooth relations with Washington as Riyadh pushes for more U.S. support for Syrian rebels.

Prince Bandar, who has recently spent time in the United States and Morocco for medical treatment, was replaced on an interim basis by a deputy.

"Prince Bandar was relieved of his post at his own request and General Youssef al-Idrissi was asked to carry out the duties of the head of general intelligence," state news agency SPA said, citing a royal decree.

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More News On Saudi Arabia's Intelligence Chief Stepping Down

Saudi Arabia replaces intelligence chief -- The Guardian
Saudi king replaces intelligence chief Bandar -- AP
Saudi replaces veteran intel chief Prince Bandar -- Business Standard/AFP
Saudi Intel Chief Relieved of Duties -- Defense News
Saudi King Orders Removal of Prince Bandar as Spy Chief -- Al Manar
Saudi Arabia replaces powerful intelligence chief -- Middle East Online

My Comment: I do not expect any changes in Saudi policy.

1 comment:

James said...

This is cosmetics.