General

Trump defends Saudi crown prince over Khashoggi killing, threatens ABC News in White House meeting – as it happened

In a recent White House visit, former President Donald Trump appeared to downplay the implications of journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s murder during discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This meeting comes at a time when the Trump family has been increasingly involved in business ventures within Saudi Arabia, raising eyebrows regarding potential conflicts of interest. Notably, in September, Dar Global, a London-based real estate developer, announced plans to launch Trump Plaza in Jeddah, marking the second collaboration between the Trump Organization and Dar Global. This follows last year’s unveiling of Trump Tower Jeddah, further solidifying the Trump family’s business presence in the region.

The timing of this meeting is particularly poignant, as Khashoggi’s brutal killing in 2018 has drawn international condemnation and scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. Critics argue that Trump’s dismissal of the incident reflects a broader trend of prioritizing business interests over ethical considerations. The former president’s relationship with Saudi Arabia has been characterized by mutual benefit, as he has often emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Saudi alliance for economic and strategic reasons. Trump’s ongoing business dealings in the kingdom have raised questions about whether personal financial interests are influencing his stance on critical issues like human rights and freedom of the press.

As the Trump Organization continues to expand its footprint in Saudi Arabia, the intersection of business and politics remains a contentious topic. Trump’s casual dismissal of Khashoggi’s murder during the Crown Prince’s visit illustrates the complexities of international relations, where economic ties often overshadow moral imperatives. This dynamic not only affects U.S.-Saudi relations but also shapes the global conversation around accountability and justice for human rights violations. As the situation unfolds, observers are keenly watching how Trump’s business ventures may influence his political rhetoric and actions regarding Saudi Arabia and its leadership.