No one would have thought that a Saudi man loves suspense so much that he would announce his intention to visit Al-Quds (Jerusalem), which is under Israeli occupation. The matter becomes more surprising when this Saudi is a religious preacher. Sheikh Muhammed Al-Areefi announced in his program “Leave Your Imprint,” which is broadcast on the satellite channel, Iqra, that he is planning to visit Al-Quds and that his next program would be filmed from there. He promised his viewers surprises in the program’s coming episodes. Sheikh Al-Areefi should reveal his identity: Is he an Islamic preacher, a political activist or a journalist?
These questions will lead the observer to the statements Al-Areefi made against a prominent Shiite figure a few months ago, the brunt of which was borne by the Kingdom and its religious establishments. Here he is again announcing something even more rash — visiting a land occupied by Israel without his government’s permission. This step is against the Kingdom’s rules and may lead to him being punished.
The actions of Saudis, such as them shaking hands with Israelis, visiting Israel or making statements and expressing political views about Israel should be put in proper perspective. The behavior of individuals, their attitude and their analysis is not necessarily the Saudi government’s policy. The Saudi media is replete with divergent views. This was clear during the invasion of Iraq in 2003, the Israeli war against Lebanon in 2006 and the war against Gaza in 2008.
I would like to ask foreign observers, whether Arab or non-Arab, to realize that the attitude of a Saudi citizen is not necessarily a message from the government. I wish these observers would realize that there is freedom of expression inside the Kingdom.
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