Saudi Arabian King Abdulallah bin Abdul Aziz has appointed a new interior minister, state media said Monday.
Prince Mohammed bin Nayef will replace Prince Ahmed, the king's half brother, dpa reported.
Prince Mohammed is the son of Prince Nayef, who served as interior minister for decades until he died last June. The late Prince Nayef was seen by Western countries as having spearheaded Saudi efforts to crush al-Qaeda in the kingdom.
"Prince Ahmed is relieved of his position as interior minister at his own request and Prince Mohammed bin Nayef is appointed," according to a royal decree carried on the Saudi Press Agency.