Trump’s Viral Defense of MBS Over Khashoggi Murder
A tense exchange between former U.S. President Donald Trump and a journalist questioning Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) about Jamal Khashoggi’s murder has gone viral. The heated moment, captured during a live interview at Mar-a-Lago, reignites debate over Trump’s reluctance to hold MBS accountable for human rights abuses.
The Confrontation: “Don’t Embarrass Him”
At a Q&A session in Florida, a reporter brought up the 2018 killing of Khashoggi—a Washington Post columnist murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Trump quickly interrupted, saying, “Don’t embarrass him. Don’t embarrass him. He didn’t do it, okay?”
MBS, seated beside Trump, smirked and dismissed the question: “This topic is not worth discussing.” His reaction drew sharp backlash, with critics calling it proof of Saudi Arabia’s unchecked impunity.
Trump’s History of Shielding MBS
Trump’s defense aligns with his long-standing support for MBS. Despite a CIA report implicating the Crown Prince in Khashoggi’s assassination, Trump has consistently prioritized U.S.-Saudi relations over accountability. As president, he famously said, “Maybe he did, maybe he didn’t,” while citing Saudi arms deals.
Outrage and Political Reactions
The clip sparked condemnation from human rights advocates and some Republicans. Sarah Leah Whitson of DAWN (founded by Khashoggi) tweeted, “Trump’s shameless defense of a murderer is a disgrace.” Even Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, previously labeled MBS “toxic” post-Khashoggi—but GOP leaders remain largely silent.
Why Saudi Arabia Faces Little Accountability
MBS’s defiance reflects Saudi Arabia’s geopolitical clout. As a top oil producer and U.S. security partner, the kingdom has weathered criticism over human rights. The Biden administration, despite vowing to isolate Saudi Arabia early on, has softened its stance amid oil and security concerns.
Threat to Press Freedom?
Advocates warn Trump’s dismissal sets a dangerous precedent. “Brushing off a journalist’s murder emboldens autocrats,” said ex-Committee to Protect Journalists director Joel Simon. Many fear such incidents could escalate if perpetrators face no consequences.
What Comes Next?
While U.S.-Saudi ties remain strong, Trump’s remarks may fuel scrutiny of MBS’s rights record. As Saudi Arabia expands into tech and sports (e.g., LIV Golf, NEOM), pressure could grow on Western partners. For Trump, the incident underscores his controversial foreign policy—where alliances often trump ethics.
WATCH the viral moment here: [Insert video link]
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