Back in October, relations between the US and its usually firm ally Saudi Arabia were on the rocks.
In concert with Russia, Saudi Arabia had cut oil production, an economic kick in the shin for the US just in time for the midterm elections.
President Joe Biden vowed in response that unspecified “consequences” would be follow for the Saudis. As relations went into tailspin, officials from the countries exchanged petty insults.
Three months later, Saudi Arabia and its crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, remain unpunished.