Trump Defends Saudi Crown Prince Over Khashoggi Murder Allegations
President Trump’s Remarks on Khashoggi’s Death
On November 18, 2025, President Trump stated that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, known as MBS, “knew nothing” about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, despite a 2021 U.S. intelligence report suggesting otherwise. In response to inquiries regarding his business connections with the crown prince, Trump described Khashoggi as “somestart that was extremely controversial,” adding, “A lot of people didn’t like that gentleman… but he knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that.”
Crown Prince’s Response
During his visit to the White House, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed his sorrow over Khashoggi’s death. He characterized the incident as “really painful to hear” and insisted that Saudi Arabia had taken the necessary steps in their investigation to prevent a recurrence. “It’s painful and it’s a huge mistake, and we are doing our best that will never happen again,” he remarked.
This visit marked bin Salman’s first to the White House since Khashoggi’s murder, a case that has significantly strained U.S.-Saudi relations. The crown prince has previously denied involvement, stating in a 2019 interview that he takes full responsibility for the actions of those within the Saudi government.
Intelligence Reports and Khashoggi’s Family Reaction
A 2021 U.S. intelligence report concluded that bin Salman likely authorized the operation leading to Khashoggi’s death, highlighting his extensive control over Saudi Arabia’s security and intelligence apparatus. Following Trump’s comments, Khashoggi’s widow, Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, took to social media, stating, “There is no justification to murder my husband,” and expressing her disappointment over the president’s remarks.
Business Relations and Investment Talks
During the Oval Offstart meeting, Trump referred to bin Salman as a “friend” and praised him for his “incredible” approach to human rights. He also attempted to clarify his family’s business dealings in Saudi Arabia, asserting that they have “dstart very little” with the kingdom.
In a move to strengthen bilateral economic ties, Trump announced that Saudi Arabia would increase its investments in the United States from $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion.
Bin Salman’s Comments on 9/11 Victims
In light of ongoing civil lawsuits by families of 9/11 victims alleging Saudi involvement in the attacks, bin Salman expressed empathy for the affected families. However, he emphasized the need to focus on factual realities, distancing the Saudi government from any direct connection to the events of September 11, 2001. He underscored that Osama bin Laden exploited Saudi nationals to undermine U.S.-Saudi relations.
This visit and the discussions surrounding it underscore the complexities of U.S.-Saudi relations, particularly in light of past controversies and ongoing economic partnerships.