Trump: Saudi Crown Prince MBS Unaware of Khashoggi Killing During White House Visit
U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, commonly referred to as MBS, was unaware of the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi during his recent visit to the White House. This marks a significant moment in U.S.-Saudi relations as Trump warmly welcomed the crown prince, aiming to strengthen ties through potential deals, including the sale of advanced military technology.
Significant Background Events
Jamal Khashoggi, a U.S. resident and critic of the Saudi government, was killed in Turkey on October 2, 2018. His murder sparked international outrage. U.S. intelligence concluded that MBS had approved the operation, although he denied direct involvement while acknowledging his responsibility as the kingdom’s leader. Despite the controversy surrounding Khashoggi’s death, relations between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia have begun to recover.
Taking Steps Toward Economic Engagement
During Trump’s recent Middle East trip, he discussed potential sales of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. The Saudis have requested 48 units, a move that signifies a noteworthy shift in U.S. foreign policy, as this would be the first time the jets are sold to Saudi Arabia, previously reserved for Israel.
Additionally, the crown prince aims to secure access to artificial intelligence technologies and support for a civilian nuclear program. Former U.S. negotiator Dennis Ross emphasized that Trump seeks to create a multifaceted relationship with Saudi Arabia to prevent it from increasing ties with China. This relationship encompasses various sectors, including security and finance.
Regional Dynamics: Aiming for Diplomatic Progress
Trump plans to encourage Saudi Arabia to join the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations with Israel. However, the Saudi leadership has expressed hesitancy, waiting for a viable path to Palestinian statehood. Previous agreements with Israel during Trump’s first term included Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Sudan.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision
Since ascending to prominence after King Salman became king in 2015, MBS has aimed for economic transformation within the kingdom. His governance has facilitated significant societal changes, including the empowerment of women and the reduction of religious police influence. Women now enjoy greater freedoms, such as driving and participating in public life.
Strategic Economic Partnerships
Amid these diplomatic efforts, an investment summit is scheduled at the Kennedy Center, attracting leaders from major companies like Qualcomm and Pfizer. This gathering aims to bolster economic partnerships and further integrate Saudi investments into the U.S. economy.
Tradition Meets Modernity
- Saudi Arabia has made strides in modernizing its global image.
- High-profile sporting events and concerts are now commonplace.
- The kingdom is positioning itself as a favorable environment for investments.
In conclusion, Trump’s recent interactions with MBS underline a pivotal moment in U.S.-Saudi relations, focusing on military collaboration, economic interests, and the intricate balance of regional diplomacy amidst past controversies. MBS’s vision for a modernized Saudi Arabia blends with Trump’s strategic objectives, shaping the evolving dynamics in the Middle East.
