...plays out in societies which are at different stages of development, both politically and socially. As to Israel, it's little better than an apartheid state. Saudi Arabia is an absolute monarchy, pure and simple. And yes, Iran is a theocracy, although I disagree about it being run by crazies. Calling someone crazy is a cheap and or lazy tactic used in a bid to obviate the need to give any sort reasoned response to the arguments made by others.