A death, an illness, and an uncertain Middle East
The region could be on the cusp of real change

SINCE march 2023, when Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to restore diplomatic ties, the two longtime foes have tried to put on a show of friendship. The routine has not been convincing. Then, for a moment this month, they seemed to take the unity act to another level. The Iranian president vanished, and the Saudi king fell ill. It was a reminder that both countries are on the brink of profound transition.
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This article appeared in the Middle East & Africa section of the print edition under the headline “Succession”
Middle East & Africa May 25th 2024
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