In an NPR interview with Mohammad Javad Zarif, it was apparent how the rivalry with Saudi Arabia is a factor in many Iranian decisions — including the uncertain future of its nuclear deal.
Allowing cinemas is part of a modernization drive by the Saudi government, which hopes to create more business opportunities and become a regional film hub. But it's a tough place to be a filmmaker.
Even as President Trump is warming relationships with Muslim nations in the Middle East, he is antagonizing U.S. Muslims with his choice of a new national security adviser and secretary of state.
Roughly two-thirds of the conservative kingdom's population has likely never seen a film in a commercial theater. That's set to change — and Black Panther is expected to get the inaugural showing.
The money was pledged by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, two countries that have fueled the country's humanitarian crisis. Aid groups from Yemen and beyond weigh in.
As the Saudi crown prince travels across the United States, he will have one major hurdle: polls show more than half of Americans have unfavorable views of his country.
Mohammed bin Salman is coming to the U.S. this week. His ongoing PR campaign seeks to diversify Saudi Arabia's economy and reset its image abroad, but some of his actions have undermined that goal.
They say it shows his willingness to solidify his role as Saudi Arabia's next king. U.S. intelligence analysts reportedly think he believes his mother opposes his rise to the throne.