Ep 8. Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia (Part 1)

In this episode of Frontline Season 36, titled "Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia (Part 1)," viewers will be taken on a journey through the complex and often tumultuous relationship between two of the Middle East's most powerful nations: Iran and Saudi Arabia.

As the episode begins, we are given an overview of the historical and religious differences that have long fueled the rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia. With roots that date back centuries to the early days of Islam, the two countries have often found themselves at odds over issues related to governance, ideology, and regional power.

From there, the episode moves on to examine some of the most significant events that have shaped the modern-day relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia. We are given a window into the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the subsequent rise of the Shiite Islamist government that would come to power there, as well as the rise of Wahhabi Islam and the conservative Sunni monarchy that would come to dominate Saudi Arabia.

As we journey deeper into the history of Iran and Saudi Arabia, we are also given a glimpse into the rivalries and conflicts that have played out over the years. From the Iran-Iraq War to the ongoing proxy conflicts in Syria and Yemen, we see how each nation has sought to extend its influence and exert its power across the region.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a wealth of insights and opinions from experts and analysts who have studied the Iran-Saudi Arabia rivalry for years. From political insiders to academic researchers, each of these voices helps to shed light on the tangled web of alliances, animosities, and strategic calculations that shape this crucial relationship.

Taken together, "Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia (Part 1)" represents a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most complex and challenging relationships in the modern-day Middle East. With its nuanced coverage and insightful analysis, this episode is sure to be of interest to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this geopolitical flashpoint.