Trump Welcomes Saudi Crown Prince, Dismisses Khashoggi Findings

President Donald Trump has dismissed U.S. intelligence findings suggesting that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman likely had knowledge of the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. This assertion came during the crown prince’s first visit to the White House in seven years, marking a significant thaw in U.S.-Saudi relations that had been strained by the incident.

The meeting in the Oval Office underscored the rekindled ties between the two nations. Trump characterized Prince Mohammed, who is only 40 years old, as an essential figure for shaping the future of the Middle East. He notably referred to Khashoggi as “extremely controversial,” arguing that many disapproved of the journalist’s views. Trump stated, “Whether you like him or didn’t like him, things happen. But (Prince Mohammed) knew nothing about it. And we can leave it at that,” while urging reporters not to embarrass their guest with such inquiries.

In contrast, U.S. intelligence officials had previously concluded that the crown prince most likely approved the operation that led to Khashoggi’s death at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. These findings were declassified in 2021 at the beginning of the Biden administration. During his presidency, Trump’s administration had refrained from releasing the report detailing these conclusions.

During the meeting, Prince Mohammed asserted that Saudi Arabia had taken appropriate measures to investigate Khashoggi’s death, calling it “painful” and “a huge mistake.” Trump went further, praising the Saudi leader for progress in human rights, although he did not provide specific examples. “I’m very proud of the job he’s done,” Trump remarked, emphasizing their growing friendship.

The shift in U.S.-Saudi relations contrasts sharply with rhetoric from former President Joe Biden, who described the kingdom as a “pariah” state early in his 2020 campaign. After taking office, Biden had signaled a reluctance to engage directly with the crown prince. However, rising oil prices, exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, prompted a reconsideration of this approach. Biden ultimately visited Prince Mohammed in Jeddah in July 2022 to encourage increased oil production.

During the recent White House meeting, Prince Mohammed announced plans to elevate Saudi investment in the U.S. to $1 trillion, up from $600 billion, which had been pledged during Trump’s previous visit to the kingdom. He described the U.S. as the “hottest country on the planet” for foreign investment, aligning with Trump’s pro-business ethos.

Trump’s family has significant business interests in Saudi Arabia. In September 2023, London-based developer Dar Global announced plans to launch Trump Plaza in Jeddah, marking the second collaboration with the Trump Organization in Saudi Arabia, following the announcement of Trump Tower Jeddah last year. Despite concerns raised about potential conflicts of interest, Trump stated, “I have nothing to do with the family business.”

Critics have condemned Trump’s remarks about Khashoggi and his defense of business ties with Saudi Arabia. Human rights advocates continue to highlight ongoing repression in Saudi Arabia, where dissent is harshly punished. Robert Weissman, co-president of Public Citizen, criticized Trump’s comments, asserting they reflect a troubling intertwining of personal business interests and international diplomacy.

As the U.S. navigates its complex relationship with Saudi Arabia, the repercussions of Trump’s remarks and the implications for human rights in the kingdom remain a focal point for both domestic and international observers.