🔗 Share this article Donald Trump Minimizes Khashoggi Assassination Throughout Saudi Arabian Crown Prince's Presidential Visit Ex-President Trump has largely ignored the 2018 murder of columnist Khashoggi, calling him an "very contentious" figure who was unpopular. Oval Office Talks with Saudi Crown Prince The remarks were delivered amid a presidential session with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, representing his first visit since Khashoggi's murder in Istanbul. Intelligence officials determined that the prince was behind the killing, yet Trump maintained that the prince "had no knowledge" about it. The Former President's Reply to Reporter's Question Donald Trump additionally attacked the news professional who raised the topic, proposing that the media outlet should lose its license. "Many people did not like that man you mention," Trump remarked. "Irrespective of personal views, things occurred, yet he had no idea." The crown prince stated, "It's painful and a significant blunder, and we are working hard to prevent such incidents in future." Economic Agreements and Military Transactions The discussion further emphasized proposed Saudi Arabian funding in America, first announced as $600 billion, however subsequently raised to $1 trillion. The former president stated his aim to supply advanced F-35 planes to the Saudis, in spite of objections from the Israeli government and intelligence communities. The two men further acknowledged talks on a potential agreement for the kingdom to formalize diplomatic links with Tel Aviv in exchange for a sovereign Palestine. Regional Concerns and Complications The planned fighter jet deal has sparked anxiety in Israel, that is the only operator of the advanced plane in the Middle East. Intelligence officials are also worried because of the kingdom's strong defense links with China, highlighting fears about intellectual property risks. However, Trump stated that Saudi Arabia is entitled to comparable top-level jets as Israel, citing them being "strong partners" of the US. Additional Arrangements Besides weapons sales, American authorities noted hopes for massive Saudi Arabian funding in the United States' AI industry, as well as greater cooperation in civil nuclear power initiatives. "We are pleased to state that we are increasing that $600 billion to almost one trillion," the Saudi leader stated. Political Issues The former president's administration is also seeking a energy and safety cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, which the Biden administration had tried without success to finalize. But, recent events, including the October assault and subsequent operations in the region, have complicated the likelihood of normalization. "Following the attacks, in my view the cost for Saudi to agree to diplomatic ties with the Israelis has increased substantially," an ex- US Middle East negotiator remarked. Prospective Discussions "We want to participate the Abraham Accords, yet we require to secure a clear path for Palestinian sovereignty," the Saudi leader declared. Trump echoed, saying, "We've had a productive conversation on the Abraham Accords. We talked about various options." "We talked about many topics briefly. We'll be discussing additional aspects," he added. "However, I believe you hold a strong understanding of the agreements." Criticism Over Business Interests The visit additionally controversial due to perceived links between the former president's family private business interests with Gulf nations. Trump rejected any ethical concerns, asserting he has "withdrawn from his companies" while committed "all his efforts" to the presidency. "I am not connected regarding the family business," he stated. "What my family does is acceptable. They work all over. Their activities are limited with Saudi Arabia, in fact. I believe opportunities exist. Whatever they have undertaken has been very good."