The film unfolds in November 1976, shortly after the Arab Oil Embargo of 1973–1974. A cadre of politicians in the Arab world endorses a radical agenda that includes imposing a ceiling on international oil prices. Within 48 hours of this initiative becoming known to the Americans and Russians, the three main figures in this group are brutally eliminated: the Kuwaiti is thrown from a window, the Saudi is shot dead, and the Tunisian, portrayed by Adolfo Celi, falls victim to seduction, drugging, and asphyxiation. In the first two murders, the assassins meet their end shortly after — one is dealt with by another hitman named Gregory Zolnikov (played by director Richard C. Sarafian in an uncredited appearance), while the bodyguard Hamid, played by Albert Paulsen, takes care of the other.
In this chaotic atmosphere, Khalil Abdul-Muhsen, played by Sean Connery, ascends to the role of Saudi Arabian minister of state, stepping up as the "next man." He passionately addresses the United Nations, advocating for a "new global socio-political order" that includes a cap on oil prices, the exploration of alternative energy sources, international recognition for Israel, the establishment of a Palestinian state, and Saudi Arabian support for disadvantaged third-world nations. He concludes this pivotal speech by quoting Yasser Arafat's 1974 UN General Assembly address: > "I hold neither a symbol nor a gun. My hands are empty. They reach out to you. Which of you will take them?" His police bodyguard quickly informs him that this bold declaration has elevated his assassination risk from a "C-minus" to an alarming "A."
Simultaneously, Nicole Scott, the part-time assassin and Irish aristocrat portrayed by Cornelia Sharpe, travels to New York, where she arranges a meeting with Abdul-Muhsen at an evening gathering. Their flirtation continues at an auction, where despite being outbid for a snuffbox, Abdul-Muhsen wins it and gifts it to her. Their chemistry deepens over drinks and a game of backgammon, leading them to a spontaneous trip to the Bahamas to escape the harsh New York winter. However, their getaway takes a perilous turn when a group of commandos, masquerading as Palestinian terrorists, attempts to assassinate Abdul-Muhsen. With the help of Hamid and Scott, who chooses to save Abdul-Muhsen by taking out his attacker instead of fulfilling her potential hit, he narrowly escapes.
Returning to the UN, Abdul-Muhsen gives yet another fervent speech, declaring that Saudi Arabia is prepared to invite Israel to join OPEC. Meanwhile, Scott receives an urgent message from her handler instructing her with a single word: "Now!" Despite this, she hesitates. Abdul-Muhsen professes his love for her and encourages her to accompany him back to Saudi Arabia. As events unfold, the NYPD uncovers Zolnikov's presence in New York. As Abdul-Muhsen and his entourage leave the Saudi embassy to head to the airport, their adversaries plant four suitcase bombs among the protesters gathered outside. Just as the bombs detonate around Abdul-Muhsen's limousine, a crucial decision puts him in a different vehicle, thanks to his wise police escort. However, their car becomes ensnared in traffic. Hamid suddenly reveals a gun, commanding Scott, "Now. Kill him now." In a shocking twist, Scott reacts swiftly—she shoots Hamid in the temple, then turns her weapon on Abdul-Muhsen, ending his life.
The movie closes with Scott navigating customs in London, concealing the snuffbox and revealing it as "a gift." As she exits the airport, we see Zolnikov shadowing her, suggesting that her tumultuous journey is far from over.
