🔗 Share this article

Former President Trump has largely ignored the assassination of journalist Khashoggi, labeling him an "very contentious" individual who was not well-liked.

Oval Office Talks with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince

The remarks were delivered throughout a presidential session alongside Prince Mohammed, marking the prince's initial trip since the journalist's death in Turkey.

US intelligence determined that the Saudi leader authorized the killing, but Trump maintained that he "had no knowledge" regarding it.

The Former President's Response to Journalist's Question

Donald Trump additionally attacked the reporter who raised the issue, suggesting that the network ought to forfeit its broadcasting rights.

"A lot of individuals did not like that person you mention," Trump remarked. "Whether you like him or not, events unfolded, but he was unaware."

The crown prince replied, "It is distressing and a significant blunder, and we are working hard to stop a recurrence."

Financial Deals and Defense Transactions

The meeting further emphasized promised Saudi investment in the US, initially billed as a $600bn package, however potentially expanded to $1 trillion.

The former president announced his intention to supply advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to the Saudis, notwithstanding concerns from the Israeli government and intelligence communities.

The pair additionally revealed discussions on a potential agreement for the kingdom to establish ties with Israel conditional on a two-state solution.

Middle Eastern Issues and Challenges

The planned fighter jet deal has raised alarm within Israel, which is the only operator of the stealth fighter in the Middle East.

US intelligence are also worried given the kingdom's extensive defense links with China, highlighting fears regarding technology theft.

Nevertheless, the former president insisted that Saudi Arabia should receive equivalent advanced specification aircraft as the Israelis, pointing to their role as "reliable friends" of the United States.

Broader Arrangements

Besides arms deals, administration representatives noted expectations of massive Saudi funding in America's AI industry, plus enhanced cooperation on nuclear energy projects.

"We are pleased to state that we are increasing that $600 billion to almost one trillion," Prince Mohammed declared.

Political Issues

The Trump government is aiming a nuclear and security arrangement with Riyadh, which President Biden's team previously attempted without success to finalize.

However, current developments, including the October assault followed by subsequent operations in Gaza, have made difficult the chances of an agreement.

"Following the attacks, in my view the cost for Saudi to agree to normalization with Tel Aviv has risen significantly," an ex- US Middle East negotiator commented.

Prospective Talks

"We desire to join the diplomatic deals, but we also want to guarantee a concrete plan for a two-state solution," the Saudi leader declared.

The former president echoed, saying, "We've had a productive talk regarding normalization. We talked about potential solutions."

"We discussed about a lot in a short time. We will continue more details," Trump continued. "But I think you hold a very good feeling for the Abraham Accords."

Controversy Regarding Commercial Links

The encounter additionally contentious due to possible links involving the Trump family's financial activities with Middle Eastern countries.

The former president denied any impropriety, claiming he has "stepped away from his companies" while committed "full attention" to his role.

"I am not connected to do with my family's enterprises," he said. "What my family does is fine. They work all over. They've done very little with Riyadh, in fact. I believe they have potential. Whatever they have undertaken has been positive."