Washington, D.C.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) regarding the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi during a high-profile White House meeting. Trump insisted that MBS “knew nothing about it” and rebuffed questions about U.S. intelligence assessments linking the Crown Prince to the murder.
In a tense exchange with reporters, Trump rejected calls for accountability, stating, “You don’t have to embarrass our guest,” while emphasizing the strength of the U.S.-Saudi relationship. The comments come amid ongoing debate over the role of human rights versus strategic and economic considerations in U.S.-Saudi relations.
During the visit, Trump highlighted the Crown Prince’s pledge to strengthen economic cooperation, including discussions about a potential sale of F‑35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. He framed the partnership as a crucial component of regional security and a driver for American business interests.
Khashoggi’s assassination, which took place at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018, drew widespread international condemnation and strained U.S.-Saudi relations. Despite intelligence reports suggesting MBS’s involvement, Trump has consistently defended the Crown Prince, citing his leadership and Saudi investments as vital to American interests.
The meeting underscores the enduring tension between advocating for human rights and pursuing strategic alliances. With Saudi Arabia positioning itself as a critical security and economic partner in the Middle East, Trump’s statements signal continued prioritization of bilateral cooperation over diplomatic censure.
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