Trump Defends Saudi Crown Prince Over Khashoggi Killing

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited controversy by defending Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) over the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The remarks, made during a recent interview, have drawn sharp criticism while highlighting the complex U.S.-Saudi alliance.

Trump’s Controversial Remarks on MBS

Trump doubled down on his support for the Saudi leader, emphasizing strategic interests over accountability. “Saudi Arabia has been a strong ally—jobs, oil, and counterterrorism matter more,” he argued, echoing his administration’s earlier dismissal of CIA findings implicating MBS in Khashoggi’s killing.

The Washington Post columnist and U.S. resident was brutally murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, sparking global outrage.

Outrage from Human Rights Groups & Politicians

Critics slammed Trump’s stance as a betrayal of justice:
– Sarah Leah Whitson (DAWN): “Defending MBS signals that autocrats can kill critics without consequences.”
– Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.): “Excusing murder for oil deals stains American values.”

The Biden administration reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, though policy shifts remain limited amid energy and geopolitical demands.

U.S.-Saudi Relations: A Geopolitical Tightrope

The alliance hinges on oil, arms deals ($110B under Trump), and counterterrorism. While Biden initially took a harder line—freezing some arms sales and releasing the CIA report—rising oil prices and tensions with Russia/Iran have softened his approach.

Khashoggi’s Legacy & Unresolved Justice

Khashoggi’s fiancée, Hatice Cengiz, called Trump’s comments “a betrayal.” Meanwhile, MBS has faced no direct consequences, instead bolstering his power through economic ventures and diplomacy.

What Comes Next?

With Trump eyeing a 2024 run, his pro-MBS stance signals a continued “America First” foreign policy. For Saudi Arabia, economic leverage shields it from lasting fallout. The case remains a moral litmus test for global leaders balancing principles and realpolitik.

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