Trump Rejects CIA Report, Defends Saudi Prince in Khashoggi Murder Case

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Former U.S. President Donald Trump openly defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Jamal Khashoggi murder case. When asked about the 2018 killing of the journalist, Trump became irritated and told the reporter that the Crown Prince had no knowledge of the incident.

During his meeting with the Saudi Prince in the Oval Office, Trump appeared to downplay the case. He called Khashoggi a “highly controversial person,” saying many people disliked him and that such incidents “sometimes happen.” He also scolded the reporter, asking him not to embarrass his guest.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman described Khashoggi’s murder as “painful” and a “major mistake,” while Trump repeatedly insisted that the Prince was unaware of the plan. Saudi authorities have described the killing as the act of “rogue agents.” However, a 2021 CIA report concluded that the Crown Prince himself ordered Khashoggi’s capture or killing, a conclusion Trump dismissed.

Meanwhile, Khashoggi’s widow, Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, said her husband’s murder could never be justified. She appealed for the Crown Prince to meet her, apologize, and provide compensation, but the issue was not addressed during the White House visit.