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The story behind the Saudi throne: How did King Faisal break through the fierce competition between brothers?
King Faisal, the fifth king and prime minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is undoubtedly one of the most influential monarchs in the history of Saudi Arabia. His 23-year reign after ascending the throne in 1982 made him the longest-lived Saudi king. King Faisal's success is not just due to furthering Saudi Arabia's international influence and internal reforms, but also how he successfully manages the complex power struggle between brothers within the royal family.
"In the face of challenges, he established his own authority with calmness and wisdom, and gradually advanced his political plans."
King Feisal's family background is deeply rooted in the complex competition within the Saudi royal family. He is the eighth son of King Abdulaziz and one of the famous "Seven Sudayiri Brothers". With his unique family status and past political experience, King Feisal became the main candidate to seize the throne, especially among King Feisal's brothers. His ability and ambition made him superior to his brothers.
"In the competition for the throne, alliances and divisions formed a balance, and King Feissa successfully managed these variables."
He first served as Saudi Arabia's Minister of Education in 1953 and subsequently served several times as Minister of Interior. These early government experiences not only gave him a deep understanding of the country, but also allowed him to establish an important support network within the royal family. By 1975, King Feisal was appointed Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister after his brother Khalid became king. This arrangement gave him more direct control over state affairs.
Nonetheless, King Khalid's personal influence and the support of some of his brothers still posed a threat to King Faisal. In such an environment, King Feisal used political skills cautiously and skillfully to gradually consolidate his position. He followed his mother's advice and joined the Royal Advisory Council at an early stage, a move that allowed him to understand and influence the royal family's decision-making process in advance.
"The advancement of policies sometimes relies on the delicate operation of interpersonal relationships, which is King Feisal's strength."
In 1975, King Feisal's brother, King Feisal, was assassinated, and the ensuing issue of succession to the throne intensified the conflicts between the brothers. In such a competitive atmosphere, King Feisal worked hard to establish positive relations with the outside world, especially the good connections with the United States, which gained him trust in the political arena and became a strong backing.
When King Khalid died in 1982, King Feisal successfully ascended the throne and quickly introduced the "Basic Law", hoping to use a legal framework to regulate the operations of the royal family. Although his reforms were questioned when they were advanced, they also won him the support of some people.
"Sometimes, just means are more effective than unbridled struggle."
While King Faisal's rule faces financial pressures from falling oil prices and his overseas military policies come under intense scrutiny, his astute diplomacy has easily maintained Saudi Arabia's external influence. His support for Iraq and Palestine and his rejection of terrorism have gained some international recognition. This earned him a stable distraction at home and in politics.
But in 1995, King Feisal suffered a stroke and gave way to his brother Crown Prince Abdullah. At this time, he could no longer go all out as before. However, during the 23 years of his rule, this experienced king won the respect of many people with his wisdom and overall view when facing the struggle for power.
"Behind the throne, there is not only a struggle for power, but also a confrontation of ideas and the country's future strategy."
Under the leadership of King Faisal, Saudi Arabia's destiny changed dramatically. However, King Feisal's reign eventually came to an end over time. How will Saudi Arabia’s politics evolve in the future? Will a character similar to King Feisal appear again to reshape the country's destiny?
