Iran continues to insist US, Israel stirring up unrest as Iraqi PM orders police replace army forces in Shiite-majority neighborhood of Baghdad where over 100 have been killed in clashes in under a week.
The easing of stringent regulations governing social interactions comes after Riyadh launched its first tourist visa scheme, as part of efforts to open up the country to foreign visitors and diversify its oil-reliant economy.
Government makes vague promises of reform in the face of deadliest wave of unrest Iraq has seen since 2017.
French foreign minister suggests Tehran's plan to increase its nuclear activities in November would spark renewed tension in the region. "We must take advantage of the political space that exists to move forward," he says.
The attack, which has been linked to Iran, is fanning discontent among some in elite circles who are concerned about Mohammed bin Salman's ability to defend and lead the world’s largest oil exporter.
Baghdad imposes curfew as protests spread across south of country. Shiite leader Muqtada al-Sadr, known for his critical stance toward Iran, calls for investigation into police violence against protesters.
The protests, which started on Tuesday over unemployment, corruption, and poor public services, have escalated, with many chanting for the "fall of the regime," a slogan first popularized during the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings.
According to Syrian media, contaminated water traced to area just south of Damascus, although questions remain as to whether there was foul play. Russia has been reportedly trying to counter Iranian presence near capital.
Opening expected to increase trade, but also comes as a boost to Iranian influence in the region, as Iranian-backed Shiite militias will have easier access to Syria.
"We have abundant information, unprecedented in fact, about all events and developments occurring on the enemy side, using both public and secretive measures," head of terrorist group says.
