Saudi Arabia has made unprecedented investments in international sports. Critics accuse the kingdom of “sportswashing” its reputation for human rights abuses.

Turkey’s presidential runoff election set for May 28 appears to favor longtime incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan with little chance that he will ease up on his authoritarian ways.

The reopening of diplomatic ties with Israel is the latest move in Turkey’s regional rapprochement. With it, Ankara aims to bolster national security and its wavering economy.

Iran is facing international pressure over its nuclear program and assassinations of top officials. Meanwhile, its move to lift subsidies could stir public revolt.

Rapprochement between Turkey and Saudi Arabia will likely restore a vital trade link as Erdogan’s government moves to improve regional ties amid deep economic troubles.