A Royal Decree was issued on Monday appointing Major General Mohammad Rathaan Raqqad as director of the General Intelligence Department (GID) as of yesterday.

Also yesterday, a second Royal Decree was issued referring GID Director Lieutenant General Mohammad Dahabi to retirement upon his request, a Royal Court statement said.

In a letter addressed to Dahabi, His Majesty King Abdullah praised the former GID chief's performance during his time in office.

The Monarch said that when he tasked Dahabi to assume his post in the first place, he was confident that the general would work hard to improve GID capabilities and preserve the level of professionalism, efficiency and excellence of the security agency and protect the good reputation the department has earned.

"As you are leaving your post and take your share of rest or move to other locations… I extend my thanks to you for your dedication and distinguished performance," King Abdullah said.