Why are we lowering flags for Saudi King?

[GoddessWhoWalksEarthAsWoman]

Can't believe it just seen that the christian Westminster abbey is lowering flags for death of king of a country where Non Muslims risk torture and women aren't allowed to drive. Why??

because it's respectful of a foreign head of state

because it's respectful of a foreign head of state

So if Mugabe died we'd be lowering the flags for him too?

Here is the current AIBU thread which explains some reasons for not departing from the norms of international relations right now.

Because although Saudi Arabia has many ongoing human rights violations and mysogeny is rife, this particular king wanted reforms (at an admittedly slow pace but this was needed to avoid civil war with one of his more religious brothers).
It is a very complex situation, and king Abdullah was good for Saudi. He was trying to develop a 'middle class' there so there could be better working and living conditions for all. With Salman, there is likely to be very little change and that, I fear, will be a backward step.
You don't get tortured for being non Muslim in Saudi.
Have you seen the way they drive in Saudi? Starting the feminist revolution with driving would mean death to a lot of women drivers!