Jason D. Greenblatt, who served as the special envoy to the region between 2017-2019 and now frequently visits the kingdom, says it is undergoing an "unbelievable transformation," but may not be ready for the onslaught of Israeli tourists. His advice to Biden: Focus on direct talks, avoid pressuring Israel on the Palestinian issue "beyond what the Saudis want."

It was a stunning moment for the battle-tested McCarthy, a punishment fueled by growing grievances but sparked by his weekend decision to work with Democrats to keep the federal government open rather than risk a shutdown.

Israel is trying to bring Saudi Arabia into its orbit and to create a strong common front against Iran by reminding Riyadh that Tehran poses a constant danger.

"I strongly condemn any attempt to intimidate worshippers, and I am committed to taking immediate and decisive action against it," Netanyahu says after video emerges of Jews accosting pilgrims. Incident was exacerbated after one controversial figure said it was "a tradition" to spit at priests.

Unverified videos on social media showed scenes of chaos, with people, including children, running out of the doors of the mall while security guards ushered them out.