Trump Defends Saudi Crown Prince: Lavish Welcome and Investment Pledges Overshadow Khashoggi Controversy

President Donald Trump hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) at the White House on Tuesday, marking a significant high point in U.S.-Saudi relations. The visit was characterized by a lavish ceremonial welcome, promises of massive economic investment, and Trump’s vocal defense of the Crown Prince regarding the 2018 murder of Jamal Khashoggi.

Trump defends Saudi Prince MBS over Khashoggi killing during a lavish White House visit focused on new trade deals.

1. Trump’s Defense on the Khashoggi Killing

Despite U.S. intelligence reports previously concluding that MBS approved the operation to kill Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, President Trump dismissed the Crown Prince’s involvement during the visit.

"Things Happen": When asked about the murder, Trump stated, "Whether you like him or didn’t like him, things happen, but [Mohammed] knew nothing about it."

Attacking the Press: Trump criticized ABC News reporter Mary Bruce for asking about the killing, calling it a "horrible, insubordinate" question and suggesting ABC should lose its license.

MBS’s Denial: The Crown Prince termed the killing a "huge mistake" and "painful," asserting that Saudi Arabia has taken steps to ensure such an event never happens again, while denying personal responsibility.

2. A Lavish "Second Term" Welcome

In stark contrast to the Crown Prince’s previous status as a pariah in Washington, Trump’s second-term welcome was filled with pomp and circumstance.

Ceremony: The arrival included a flyover of F-15 and F-35 jets, an honor guard with black horses, and herald trumpeters.

Personal Bond: Trump emphasized his close relationship with MBS, noting they speak frequently, even late at night.

The Handshake: Trump mocked former President Joe Biden’s 2022 "fist bump" with MBS. Trump greeted the Prince with a warm handshake, stating, "I grab that hand. I don’t give a hell where that hand’s been."

3. Major Economic Agreements

The meeting underscored a deepening economic alliance between the two nations, with significant financial commitments announced.

$1 Trillion Investment: Crown Prince Mohammed pledged to boost Saudi investments in the U.S. from $600 billion to "almost $1 trillion."

Strategic Sectors: The leaders are expected to sign deals covering weapons sales, artificial intelligence (AI), and rare earth minerals.

Normalization: Trump continued to press for Saudi normalization with Israel. While MBS expressed value in the idea, he indicated his country is not yet ready to sign an agreement.

4. Sharp Criticism and Backlash

The warm reception drew immediate condemnation from human rights advocates and Khashoggi’s former colleagues.

Washington Post: Jason Rezaian stated the newspaper would not let the murder be "wiped under the rug."

DAWN: Sarah Leah Whitson, executive director of the organization Khashoggi founded, argued the meeting proved "leaders can be bought" and criticized American businesses for empowering a "ruthless dictator."

Khashoggi’s Widow: Hanan Elatr Khashoggi called the attempt to silence questions "shameful" and reiterated her request for her husband's remains to give him a proper burial.