Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia

Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia is a two-part series that dives deep into the complex and often turbulent relationship between the two Middle Eastern powerhouses, Iran and Saudi Arabia. Produced by PBS Documentaries, this series sheds light on the multifaceted aspects of the geopolitical rivalry that has come to shape much of the region’s dynamics for decades.

The documentary is educational and engaging, designed to help viewers understand the historical context and contemporary factors driving the animosity between the two nations. It begins by exploring the roots of the rivalry, tracing it back through significant historical events that have enshrined a deep-seated tension between the Sunni-dominated Saudi Arabia and the Shia-led Iran.

The series meticulously unpacks the religious divide that is one of the most public faces of their dispute. Iran, as the major Shia Muslim state, and Saudi Arabia, as the custodian of the two holiest sites in Sunni Islam, each claim religious and political leadership in the Islamic world, creating a rivalry that is as much ideological as it is political.

Further, Bitter Rivals delves into the respective government structures and leadership philosophies that mark each country. Iran, following its 1979 revolution, became an Islamic Republic with a theocratic government structure that intertwines religion and state governance. On the other side, Saudi Arabia is a hereditary monarchy that has been a longstanding ally of Western powers, especially the United States, due to its vast oil reserves and strategic location.

The documentary doesn’t shy away from shedding light on the international dimensions of the rivalry. It examines how the two nations vie for influence across the Middle East, often backing opposing sides in conflicts and leveraging their economies, military engagements, and propaganda to outdo each other. Notable is the discussion of how this rivalry has spilled over into various countries in the region, from Lebanon to Yemen, and from Iraq to Syria. Proxy conflicts have compounded the suffering and chaos in these countries, and the series makes an earnest effort to elucidate the catastrophic impact these power struggles have on real people.

One of the pivotal features of the series is its investigation into the role that the United States and other world powers play in this dynamic. The fluctuating nature of US foreign policy, including American alliances and enmities, has significantly influenced the rivalry, with shifting US positions often exacerbating or temporarily alleviating tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

What sets Bitter Rivals apart is its accessibility to a broad audience. It provides a nuanced narrative that avoids the oversimplification of issues while ensuring that those unfamiliar with Middle Eastern politics can follow along and grasp the significance of the events described. The documentary uses a blend of expert interviews, on-the-ground footage, and historical analysis to paint a comprehensive picture. Contributors include diplomats, scholars, and regional experts who offer insights that deepen the viewer’s appreciation and understanding of the subject matter.

The visual storytelling of the documentary is both informative and powerful. Carefully chosen footage highlights not only the vast disparities and rich cultural landscapes of Iran and Saudi Arabia but also the devastating consequences of militarized conflict. Viewers will find the cinematography switching between majestic shots of cities and the grim reality of war-torn areas, effectively conveying a sense of the deep-rooted connection between the kingdoms’ political maneuvers and the people’s suffering.

As the series progresses, it avoids taking sides, instead portraying with equal intensity the missteps, justifications, and rallying cries from both camps. The regional influence of both nations is scrutinized, along with the internal challenges each faces, from human rights abuses and social reforms to economic volatility and the quest for regional dominance.

Overall, Bitter Rivals: Iran and Saudi Arabia is designed to serve not only as a documentary series but also as an educational tool that provides context and clarity on a complicated and ongoing geopolitical feud. It is a compelling entry in PBS Documentaries' repertoire, inviting its audience to closely examine the narratives, dispositions, and ramifications associated with this enduring dispute. Through detailed exploration and balanced storytelling, the series stands as a poignant reflection on the ever-shifting landscape of the Middle East and the precarious balance of power at play between these two influential nations.