Hanan Elatr Khashoggi Responds to Trump
Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, the widow of slain Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has spoken out after President Donald Trump dismissed her husband’s murder. She said she was deeply “upset” by the president’s comments.
During a Tuesday meeting in the Oval Office with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Trump referred to her husband as “extremely controversial.” He added, “Whether you liked him or didn’t like him, things happen,” while defending the crown prince.
Jamal Khashoggi was killed in 2018 at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. The brutal murder shocked the world, and U.S. intelligence agencies, including the CIA, have said Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman likely approved it. Despite this, Trump insisted the crown prince “knew nothing about it” and criticized reporters, including longtime ABC White House correspondent Mary Bruce, for raising the topic during the visit.
Hanan Elatr Khashoggi rejected Trump’s comments. She said her husband’s being controversial was no reason for him to be murdered. She described Jamal Khashoggi as “transparent and brave” and called for justice, including a personal apology and compensation from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. She also highlighted that public statements cannot replace accountability, emphasizing the need for tangible steps from the Saudi leadership.
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Trump Praises Saudi Crown Prince
During the Oval Office meeting, President Trump praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and called his record “incredible” on human rights. He highlighted new deals on Saudi investments in the United States and confirmed plans to sell American fighter jets to the kingdom.
The crown prince was welcomed with a full state-style reception. His black Mercedes limousine was escorted by horses, and a military band played as fighter jets, including F-35s, flew overhead. Later, a black-tie dinner was held in his honor.
This reception marks a clear shift in U.S.-Saudi relations. After the 2018 murder, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman faced international criticism and diplomatic isolation. Despite reports linking him to the journalist’s killing, the crown prince denied involvement and described the murder as “painful” and a “huge mistake.” He said Saudi Arabia conducted proper investigations and is taking steps to prevent such events in the future.
U.S.-Saudi Agreements and Investments
Trump’s meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also focused on major economic deals. The crown prince pledged to increase Saudi investments in the United States from $600 billion to $1 trillion, nearly matching Saudi Arabia’s annual economic output. Trump also mentioned potential U.S. support for Saudi defense projects and civilian nuclear initiatives.
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The discussion included the Middle East peace process. Trump expressed hopes for Saudi Arabia to join the Abraham Accords, which normalize relations with Israel. The crown prince said Saudi Arabia is interested but wants a clear path toward a two-state solution for Palestinians. He was also noncommittal on funding for Gaza, saying discussions were ongoing.
Hanan Elatr Khashoggi’s reaction highlights the tension between diplomatic priorities and human rights accountability. She called on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to meet her personally and offer both an apology and compensation for her husband’s death. Her comments show the ongoing pain and the demand for justice even years after the murder.
Trump’s defense of the crown prince, alongside lavish hospitality, shows his continued effort to strengthen U.S.-Saudi relations. Despite widespread criticism, the president emphasized economic cooperation, defense deals, and honoring the visiting leader, while dismissing questions about Jamal Khashoggi’s murder.
