Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
US President Donald Trump offered a robust defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, asserting he bore no responsibility for the 2018 assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, despite contrary indications from US intelligence. During a media engagement, Trump highlighted the contentious atmosphere surrounding Khashoggi and underscored Saudi Arabia's crucial economic role for the United States.
Trump challenged the validity of claims regarding the crown prince’s involvement, stating, "Whether you like him or didn't like him, things happen. But he knew nothing about it." He went on to suggest that journalists should refrain from making inquiries that could embarrass their guest, marking a significant public endorsement of the Saudi leader.
Since Khashoggi's murder at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Trump has continuously favored the crown prince's denials over assessments from US intelligence agencies. He described Khashoggi, a columnist for the Washington Post, as "somebody that was extremely controversial," diminishing his impact and influence.
Trump has consistently emphasized the strategic and economic significance of Saudi Arabia, citing defense contracts, job creation, and trade advantages as pivotal factors in sustaining strong ties with Riyadh. Following Khashoggi’s demise, he expressed reluctance to disrupt "massive amounts of money being poured into our country" by Saudi Arabia, noting the kingdom's importance as a partner in job and business provision.
In 2018, Trump tweeted about his discussion with the crown prince, conveying that he "totally denied any knowledge" of events at the Turkish consulate. Later, he relayed to Fox News that he was uncertain if anyone could definitively ascertain the crown prince's involvement, although he acknowledged that associates of Mohammed bin Salman may have been implicated.
Despite reports indicating the crown prince’s possible involvement, Trump reiterated the necessity of US-Saudi relations, labeling the incident a "terrible tragedy" while stressing the kingdom’s firm denial of any wrongdoing. He also pointed out that the CIA had not conclusively attributed direct responsibility to the crown prince, allowing for public ambiguity in his remarks.
Trump’s staunch defense of the crown prince has sparked backlash, particularly from those advocating for accountability in Khashoggi’s murder. He has persistently highlighted the importance of US-Saudi economic relationships, framing the incident as a tragic event, rather than a reflection on the crown prince individually.
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