The fact that there are two distinct family groups vying for power in Saudi Arabia is well known, and has been discussed for years. The Saudis may not like the fact that Safire, a Jew, discusses a serious internal matter but it is also a serious geopolitical concern not only for the US but for the Gulf states as well.
As for Safire spending time in SArabia (fat chance he would get a visa) to gain some knowledge of the country, it is possible for an astronomer to discuss the moon with intelligence without ever having visited there.
it is possible for an astronomer to discuss the moon with intelligence without ever having visited there.Yes, but we are talking about reporters, not scientists.
And that is the crucial difference.