Kings of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah died Friday morning in Saudi Arabia, in his 90s. The king who had effectively led the Middle East kingdom for two decades, though officially for just one, was known as a reformer — even if it was not always evident to outside observers.

Shaima Jastaniah showed her independence last summer by driving. The simple act by her and other Saudi Arabian women broke the law, and Jastaniah was sentenced to 10 lashes for it. She was pardoned by the Saudi king, but police said they’d lash her anyway. Now the police have reversed course.

Saudi Arabia has arrested 18 people suspected of espionage, including one Iranian citizen. Anchor Marco Werman speaks with Saudi journalist, Ahmed al Omran, about suspicion that Iraq may be involved in the alleged espionage.

This month King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia kept his promise and appointed women to the Shura Council for the first time. The council is a non-voting, advisory body. But the inclusion of women is significant.

The head of Saudi Arabia’s notorious religious police has told the media he will curb his force’s powers in a bid to clamp down on excesses.