By: The Trek News Desk
US President Donald Trump publicly defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the royal’s visit to the White House, insisting that the Saudi leader had “no knowledge” of the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The visit marks the crown prince’s first trip to the United States since the assassination, an episode that once strained Washington–Riyadh relations.
Trump’s remarks, however, clash sharply with a 2021 US intelligence assessment that concluded the crown prince had approved the plan to detain or kill Khashoggi inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.
Bin Salman again denied any direct involvement, saying Saudi Arabia took “all the right steps” to investigate what he described as a “painful tragedy.”
Trump Snaps Back at Reporter in Oval Office
During an Oval Office interaction, a reporter questioned Trump about Khashoggi’s murder, prompting an irritated response.
“You’re talking about someone who was very controversial,” Trump said. “People may have liked him or disliked him, but these things happen… and the Crown Prince knew nothing about it. There’s no need to embarrass our guests.”
The crown prince echoed Trump’s tone, calling the killing a “big mistake” and reiterating that the kingdom had followed proper investigative procedures.
Khashoggi’s Widow Rejects Trump’s Remarks
Reacting to Trump’s comments, Khashoggi’s widow Hanan said the president’s defence contradicts the crown prince’s own past acknowledgement of responsibility.
She also posted on X, demanding a meeting with the crown prince, an apology, and compensation. Hanan currently lives in the Washington, D.C. area under US political asylum.
Talks Focus on Investments, Defence Deals and Strategic Cooperation
During the high-profile meeting, Trump and the crown prince discussed expanding Saudi investments in the US, along with cooperation on civilian nuclear technology and artificial intelligence.
Bin Salman announced that Saudi investment commitments in the US were being increased to $1 trillion, up from the earlier pledge of $600 billion.
Calling the US “the most attractive country in the world,” he said the growing partnership would generate “long-term opportunities” for both nations.
Potential F-35 Sale Raises Israeli Concerns
The leaders also explored the possible sale of advanced F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.
Trump said the licensing process was still underway but expressed confidence that the Saudis and Lockheed Martin would eventually reach an agreement.
Israeli officials have voiced concern that such a sale could weaken Israel’s “qualitative military edge” in the Middle East, as it is currently the only nation in the region operating F-35s.
“Saudi Arabia is a great ally, and Israel is a great ally,” Trump said. “Both deserve top-of-the-line technology.”
Gala Dinner and High-Profile Guests
The crown prince’s US trip includes a gala dinner at the White House and a major investment summit the following day. Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays in the Saudi Pro League, was among the special guests at the dinner.
A Contrast with Biden’s Approach
Former President Joe Biden had initially vowed to treat Saudi Arabia as a “pariah” over its human rights record. However, he later travelled to Riyadh in 2022 to address energy and regional issues, signalling a shift in tone.
Source: News Agencies
