From enmity to amity: A framing analysis of the Saudi-Iranian relationship in Arab News and Tehran Times before and after normalization

This study examines the framing strategies utilized by two English-language newspapers – Arab News and Tehran Times – in their reporting of the Saudi-Iranian relationship before and after the diplomatic reconciliation in 2023. The research employs qualitative textual analysis to examine articles published over six months with the aim of determining the prevailing frames employed by each newspaper. The study reveals a notable transition in media coverage of this relationship from antagonism to prospect cooperation in both countries. The analysis indicates that prior to normalization, there was a significant prevalence of ‘conflict and hostility’ and ‘western influence and intervention’ frames in the coverage. Consistent with Saudi Arabian viewpoints, Arab News frequently structured its reporting to mirror the Kingdom’s diplomatic positions and policy agendas. Tehran Times , on the other hand, presented Iran’s foreign policy initiatives as defensive measures in the face of regional tensions and reflected the country’s perspective. After normalization, a notable change was observed in the way information was presented. Both newspapers started to embrace more conciliatory narratives such as ‘diplomatic triumph’ and ‘regional stability’ frames. The results of this study enhance our comprehension of how prominent media outlets in historically unstable regions adapt their storytelling in reaction to geopolitical shifts. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of media framing in the context of international affairs.