Trump Minimizes Jamal Khashoggi Murder Amid Saudi Arabian Prince's White House Visit
Former President Trump has largely ignored the killing of columnist Jamal Khashoggi, describing him as an "highly divisive" individual who was disliked.
Oval Office Discussion with Saudi Arabian Leader
These comments came during a presidential session with Prince Mohammed, representing the prince's initial trip after the journalist's death abroad.
American spy agencies assessed that the Saudi leader authorized the killing, but the former president maintained that he "was unaware" of the incident.
Trump's Reply to Reporter's Question
Trump further rebuked the journalist who asked about the topic, implying that the media outlet should lose its permit.
"Numerous folks were not fond of that man you are referring to," Trump stated. "Whether you like him or not, things occurred, but he knew nothing."
The crown prince replied, "It hurts and it's a huge mistake, and we are working hard to prevent a recurrence."
Economic Arrangements and Defense Transactions
The meeting additionally showcased promised Saudi Arabian spending in America, first announced as a $600bn package, however potentially expanded to a trillion-dollar sum.
The former president confirmed his aim to sell sophisticated F-35 aircraft to the Saudis, notwithstanding objections by Israeli officials as well as intelligence communities.
The pair further acknowledged negotiations regarding a possible agreement for the kingdom to establish relations with Israel conditional on a sovereign Palestine.
Middle Eastern Tensions and Complications
The proposed fighter jet deal has sparked anxiety in Israel, that is the only operator of the stealth fighter in the region.
Intelligence officials are apprehensive due to Riyadh's close military cooperation with China, highlighting fears regarding technology theft.
Nonetheless, Trump maintained that Riyadh is entitled to the same top-level jets as Israel, noting their status as "good allies" of America.
Additional Deals
Besides arms deals, administration representatives mentioned expectations for multibillion-dollar Saudi investment in the US AI industry, as well as enhanced collaboration on nuclear energy projects.
"We are pleased to state that we will raise that $600 billion to around a trillion dollars," the Saudi leader announced.
Political Issues
The Trump team is aiming a energy and safety arrangement with Saudi Arabia, which President Biden's team previously attempted but failed to finalize.
But, recent events, including the Hamas attack and subsequent operations in the region, have made difficult the likelihood of an agreement.
"Following the attacks, I think the price for the kingdom to commit to diplomatic ties with the Israelis has gone up substantially," a former American diplomat remarked.
Prospective Discussions
"We wish to participate the diplomatic deals, however we also want to secure a clear path toward Palestinian statehood," the Saudi leader declared.
Trump concurred, noting, "We conducted a very good talk on the Abraham Accords. We spoke about potential solutions."
"We talked about numerous issues in a short time. We will continue additional aspects," he continued. "However, I believe you hold a strong understanding of the agreements."
Controversy Over Financial Ties
The encounter was also disputed due to alleged links between Trump's relatives financial activities with Gulf states.
The former president dismissed the possibility of conflict of interest, stating he has "relinquished control from his companies" while committed "100% of his energy" to the presidency.
"I have no involvement regarding their commercial activities," he remarked. "Their actions is permissible. They work all over. They've done very little in the kingdom, truthfully. I'm sure opportunities exist. Whatever they have undertaken has been very good."