By Natalie Rodriguez

The death of Saudi Arabia’s king, Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al-Saud, caused many to consider the nation’s condition in the face of Islamic State (ISIS) terror.

Abdullah died Jan. 22 at the age of 90. He had been ill for some time and reportedly suffered from pneumonia.

Abdullah officially came to power in August 2005 and was a longtime ally of the U.S. He was loved by many in his kingdom and contributed in the fight against ISIS.

Saudi Arabian graduate student Faisal Alhaifi said Abdullah was a good king: “actually he was one of the best because he fought for justice and freedom there. For example, he gave the media more freedom of speech. He tried to get rid of corruption in the royal family. He established an organization against poverty and created more universities.”

Abdullah was succeeded by his brother Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud. Alhaifi said he is convinced Salman will continue the fight against ISIS: “Abdullah was good at dealing with internal affairs. Salman is more affirmative and determined. He would be able to protect Saudi Arabia. He was the minister of defense before becoming king.”

Dominican held a mass in honor of King Abdulaziz on Friday, Jan. 30.