Trump Defends Saudi Crown Prince, Claims MBS ‘Knew Nothing’ About Khashoggi Killing Despite U.S. Intelligence Findings

Washington, D.C. — Former President Donald Trump has reignited controversy by firmly defending Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. In recent remarks during meetings with the Crown Prince, Trump asserted that MBS “knew nothing” about the killing, directly contradicting a 2021 U.S. intelligence report that concluded the Crown Prince approved the operation.

Pressed by media and political critics, Trump dismissed the significance of the intelligence findings, stating, “things happen,” and suggested the matter should not overshadow the strategic U.S.-Saudi relationship. Trump’s comments underscore a continuation of his past stance in which he minimized MBS’s role, despite overwhelming evidence from U.S. agencies implicating the Crown Prince’s involvement.

Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi dissident and permanent U.S. resident, was brutally murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, a crime that triggered international outrage and strained diplomatic ties. The 2021 U.S. intelligence assessment described the killing as having been carried out under the Crown Prince’s direct authorization, citing his absolute control over Saudi Arabia’s intelligence and security apparatus.

Trump’s defense of MBS has drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates and members of Congress. Senator Tim Kaine condemned Trump’s remarks as “disgusting” and urged accountability for those responsible for Khashoggi’s murder. Critics argue that Trump’s prioritization of personal and economic interests over human rights undercuts U.S. credibility and global leadership.

MBS, who has publicly denied ordering the killing, acknowledged it as a “huge mistake” but accepted responsibility as Saudi Arabia’s leader. Despite the intelligence findings, Trump’s support for the Crown Prince signals an ongoing willingness to maintain close ties with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing geopolitical and economic considerations over accountability for human rights abuses.

This development adds fuel to the enduring debate over U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and the extent to which strategic alliances should be maintained at the expense of justice and transparency.