Trump Defends Saudi Crown Prince Over Khashoggi Killing, Downplays US Intelligence Findings
Image Source: Internet
US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by dismissing US intelligence findings that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman knew about the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump welcomed the Crown Prince to the White House, despite the US-Saudi ties being strained over the incident. The US President defended the Crown Prince, saying he 'knew nothing about' Khashoggi's murder, while describing the journalist as 'extremely controversial.' Trump's comments came despite US intelligence officials determining that Salman likely approved the killing of the Saudi citizen and Virginia resident. The Crown Prince has denied any involvement in Khashoggi's death, with Saudi Arabia saying it took 'all the right steps' to investigate the case. However, human rights groups have criticized Trump's defense of the Prince, pointing out that Saudi authorities continue to repress dissent and carry out executions linked to suppressing internal criticism. The US President also praised the Crown Prince for strides made in human rights, a claim that has been disputed by activists. Trump's comments have been met with criticism from government watchdog groups, who say his defense of the Saudi regime is linked to his personal business interests. US intelligence findings, declassified in 2021, suggested that Salman likely approved the operation targeting Khashoggi, a fierce critic of the Saudi kingdom. The incident had strained US-Saudi ties, but it appears that Trump is now embracing the Crown Prince, describing him as an 'indispensable player' in shaping the Middle East. Human rights groups have expressed concern over Trump's comments, with some describing them as 'shameful and disgusting.' The controversy surrounding the Khashoggi killing and Trump's defense of the Saudi Crown Prince is set to continue, with many questioning the US President's motives and the implications for US foreign policy.
