🔗 Share this article

Former President Donald Trump has largely ignored the killing of journalist Khashoggi, labeling him an "very contentious" person that was not well-liked.

Oval Office Discussion alongside Saudi Crown Prince

The statements were made during a White House gathering alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, marking his inaugural appearance after Khashoggi's murder abroad.

US intelligence assessed that the Saudi leader was behind the operation, however the former president maintained that the crown prince "was unaware" of the incident.

Trump's Response to Reporter's Question

Trump additionally attacked the journalist who brought up the issue, suggesting that the network ought to forfeit its broadcasting rights.

"A lot of individuals did not like that gentleman you are referring to," Trump commented. "Whether you like him or not, events unfolded, yet he had no idea."

The Saudi leader stated, "It is distressing and a major error, and we are working hard to stop it from happening again."

Financial Arrangements and Defense Transactions

The meeting further emphasized promised Saudi Arabian investment in America, initially billed as $600 billion, though potentially expanded to a trillion-dollar sum.

Trump stated his aim to supply advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to the Saudis, despite reservations from Israel and intelligence communities.

The pair also confirmed discussions on a potential agreement for Riyadh to normalize relations with Tel Aviv in return for a sovereign Palestine.

Middle Eastern Issues and Complications

The planned fighter jet deal has raised concern within Israel, which currently possesses the stealth fighter in the Middle East.

Intelligence officials are apprehensive due to Saudi Arabia's close military cooperation with the Chinese, highlighting apprehensions regarding intellectual property risks.

Nevertheless, the former president maintained that Riyadh is entitled to the same high-grade aircraft as Israel, citing them being "reliable friends" of the United States.

Broader Agreements

Alongside arms deals, US officials mentioned hopes of multi-billion Saudi investment in the US AI sector, along with greater collaboration on nuclear energy initiatives.

"We are pleased to state our plan to boost that $600 billion to almost one trillion," the Saudi leader announced.

Political Challenges

The Trump government is aiming a energy and safety cooperation agreement with Riyadh, that the Biden administration previously attempted without success to finalize.

However, the ongoing situation, such as the October assault and ensuing bombardment in Gaza, have made difficult the likelihood of an agreement.

"After October 7, in my view the conditions for the kingdom to agree to normalization with Israel has risen significantly," a one-time peace envoy stated.

Prospective Talks

"We desire to be part the Abraham Accords, yet we additionally seek to ensure a concrete plan for a two-state solution," the crown prince declared.

Trump echoed, stating, "We held an excellent conversation on the Abraham Accords. We talked about potential solutions."

"We talked about a lot in a short time. We will continue additional aspects," Trump added. "However, I believe you possess a strong understanding of the agreements."

Controversy Regarding Commercial Links

The meeting further contentious over alleged overlap involving the former president's family private business interests with Gulf countries.

Trump rejected any impropriety, claiming he has "withdrawn from his enterprises" and devoted "full attention" to the presidency.

"I have no involvement regarding my family's enterprises," he said. "What my family does is fine. They work all over. Their activities are limited with Saudi Arabia, truthfully. I expect they could do a lot. Any dealings they've had has been positive."