Trump Defends Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Amid Khashoggi Controversy

During a recent meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, asserting his ignorance regarding the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Khashoggi, a prominent critic of the Saudi regime and a Washington Post columnist, was killed in 2018 at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, sparking international outrage and widespread protests. A CIA report indicated that bin Salman was the mastermind behind the gruesome act, yet Trump downplayed the association and criticized a journalist for bringing it up. At the press conference, Trump rebuffed ABC journalist Mary Bruce's inquiry regarding Khashoggi’s assassination, suggesting that Khashoggi was a "controversial" figure and insisting that "things happen." He implied that discussing Khashoggi’s death was an embarrassment to the Crown Prince. This nonchalant dismissal has raised eyebrows regarding the U.S. administration’s stance on human rights violations by allied nations. Following Khashoggi’s death, many speculated that bin Salman would face diplomatic isolation. However, the recent meeting underlined a dramatic shift, as he was received with full honors typically bestowed upon world leaders, signaling a process of diplomatic rehabilitation. Photos showcased Trump's warm handshake with bin Salman, a stark contrast to President Joe Biden’s earlier fist-bump greeting during a 2022 meeting that many interpreted as a slight. Khashoggi's tragic story began when he fled to Turkey after facing multiple threats from the Saudi government. In October 2018, he entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul to collect documents for his marriage but was never seen alive again. Reports indicate he was murdered and dismembered by a group of Saudi operatives. Bin Salman has consistently denied direct involvement but took responsibility as the leader of the government under which the crime occurred. After the murder, a U.S. court dismissed charges against bin Salman, favoring his claim to immunity as the head of state. Trump’s comments during the White House meeting included criticism of media outlets like ABC, suggesting repercussions for what he labeled false reporting. Khashoggi's widow, Hanan Elatr, expressed her disappointment at Trump’s characterization of her husband and emphasized that he was not someone controversial, highlighting the ongoing pain and injustice felt by those affected by the murder. Despite international and domestic calls for accountability, the meeting reflected a continued alignment with Saudi Arabia, underscoring Trump’s commitment to strengthening ties with a critical ally. The meeting concluded with a lavish dinner attended by high-profile figures, including businessmen and members of the Trump family, reiterating the intertwining of political and business interests in U.S.-Saudi relations. As investment opportunities expand in Saudi Arabia, particularly through Trump-affiliated businesses, the complexity of these relationships continues to unfold amid the backdrop of human rights concerns. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3