Trump Defends Saudi Crown Prince Over Khashoggi Killing
In a statement reigniting international controversy, former U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi as a “mistake” while defending Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). The remarks have drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups and political rivals, raising questions about accountability in U.S.-Saudi relations.
Trump’s Controversial Defense of MBS
During a recent interview, Trump downplayed Khashoggi’s murder, stating, “Everybody makes mistakes,” and praising MBS as “a strong leader who has done a lot for Saudi Arabia.” The comments echo Trump’s past reluctance to condemn the Saudi crown prince, despite a U.S. intelligence report confirming MBS approved the operation to “capture or kill” the Washington Post journalist.
Khashoggi, a critic of the Saudi government, was brutally murdered and dismembered by a Saudi hit squad inside the Istanbul consulate. While the killing triggered global outrage, the Trump administration maintained strong ties with Riyadh, prioritizing arms deals and regional alliances.
Global Outrage and Political Reactions
Human rights organizations swiftly condemned Trump’s remarks:
- Human Rights Watch called it “a slap in the face to Khashoggi’s family.”
- DAWN (Democracy for the Arab World Now), founded by Khashoggi, accused Trump of enabling impunity for authoritarian leaders.
Even some Republicans, including Senator Lindsey Graham, previously demanded consequences for MBS—though partisan dynamics have since softened their stance.
Biden’s Approach: Tough Talk, Limited Action
President Joe Biden initially vowed to make Saudi Arabia a “pariah” over Khashoggi’s killing but later adopted a more cautious stance. His administration declassified the intelligence report implicating MBS and sanctioned lower-level operatives—but avoided direct penalties against the crown prince to preserve diplomatic relations.
Why Does Trump Support MBS? Experts Weigh In
Analysts cite three key reasons for Trump’s unwavering defense:
- Business Ties – Trump’s history of Saudi-linked deals, including a $110 billion arms sale.
- Geopolitical Alignment – Shared authoritarian-leaning governance styles.
- Personal Rapport – Trump has repeatedly called MBS a “great ally.”
Khashoggi’s Legacy and Press Freedom Threats
Since Khashoggi’s murder, Saudi Arabia has intensified crackdowns on dissent, including imprisoning women’s rights activists. UN investigator Agnes Callamard warns that excusing such acts “emboldens dictators.”
Conclusion: Will Strategic Interests Always Trump Human Rights?
Trump’s latest remarks highlight the tension between moral accountability and realpolitik. As the 2024 election nears, his stance signals a continued embrace of strongman diplomacy—while Khashoggi’s family and advocates keep pushing for justice.
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