Turki al-Faisal

ModernPoliticianSaudi Arabia1945 — ?

Saudi intelligence chief and ambassador.

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Quick Facts

Born

1945

Country

Saudi Arabia

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)30

Political (20%)60

Influence (20%)71

Legacy (20%)55

Leadership (15%)77

Strategy (15%)56

Total Score60.2

Turki al-Faisal — Complete Timeline

1979 AD

Director of General IntelligencePolitical Action◆ Major

Turki al-Faisal was appointed Director of Saudi Arabia's General Intelligence Directorate (GID), a position he held for 24 years. He oversaw intelligence operations during the Soviet-Afghan War and the rise of al-Qaeda.

IntelligenceSecurityForeign Policy

Impact: regional

1980 AD

Role in Afghan JihadWar◆ Major

Turki coordinated Saudi support for the Afghan mujahideen fighting the Soviet Union, including funding and arms supplies. This involvement had long-term consequences, including the rise of extremist groups.

Afghan WarCold WarProxy War

Impact: global

2005 AD

Ambassador to the United StatesPolitical Action◆ Major

Turki served as Saudi Ambassador to the United States from 2005 to 2007, focusing on repairing relations damaged by the 9/11 attacks. He advocated for the Arab Peace Initiative and counter-terrorism cooperation.

DiplomacyUS-Saudi RelationsMiddle East Peace

Impact: global