🔗 Share this article

One-time President Trump seemed to dismiss the assassination of columnist Jamal Khashoggi, calling him an "very contentious" figure who was unpopular.

White House Meeting with Saudi Leader

These comments were delivered during a White House session with Prince Mohammed, representing the prince's initial trip since the journalist's death abroad.

US intelligence determined that the prince had ordered the killing, however Trump stated that he "had no knowledge" of the incident.

The Former President's Reply to Journalist's Question

Donald Trump additionally attacked the reporter who asked about the topic, suggesting that the media outlet should lose its license.

"A lot of individuals disliked that person you're talking about," Trump commented. "Irrespective of personal views, incidents happened, but he knew nothing."

The Saudi leader stated, "It's painful and a significant blunder, and we are working hard to prevent such incidents in future."

Economic Deals and Defense Transactions

The talks additionally showcased proposed Saudi funding in the United States, first announced at six hundred billion dollars, though later increased to one trillion dollars.

The former president announced his intention to supply top-tier F-35 planes to Riyadh, in spite of reservations from Israel as well as American spy agencies.

The two men also confirmed talks regarding a possible deal for the kingdom to normalize ties with Tel Aviv in return for a two-state solution.

Regional Issues and Complications

The planned F-35 transaction has raised anxiety in Israel, that currently possesses the F-35 in the region.

Intelligence officials have expressed concern given Saudi Arabia's close military cooperation with Beijing, highlighting concerns about intellectual property risks.

However, the former president insisted that Saudi Arabia should receive comparable advanced specification jets as the Israelis, citing their status as "strong partners" of the United States.

Additional Agreements

Alongside military transactions, US officials stated expectations for multibillion-dollar Saudi Arabian capital in the United States' AI industry, as well as greater collaboration in nuclear energy initiatives.

"We are pleased to state that we will raise the initial amount to nearly $1 trillion," Prince Mohammed stated.

Diplomatic Challenges

The Trump administration is additionally pursuing a energy and safety arrangement with the kingdom, that the current government had tried without success to secure.

However, recent events, including the 2023 incident and ensuing Israeli military actions in Gaza, have complicated the prospects of such a deal.

"After October 7, I think the cost for the kingdom to commit to normalization with the Israelis has increased considerably," a former American diplomat commented.

Future Discussions

"We want to be part the Abraham Accords, yet we also want to secure a concrete plan toward Palestinian statehood," the crown prince stated.

The former president concurred, saying, "We've had a very good conversation on the Abraham Accords. We talked about various options."

"We discussed about a lot quickly. We will continue more details," he added. "However, I believe you have a very good feeling for the Abraham Accords."

Controversy Over Financial Ties

The visit additionally disputed over possible links involving the Trump family's commercial ventures with Middle Eastern nations.

Trump rejected any ethical concerns, stating he has "stepped away from his enterprises" while devoted "100% of his energy" to his role.

"I have nothing regarding their commercial activities," he said. "What my family does is acceptable. They do business globally. They have minimal involvement in the kingdom, truthfully. I believe they have potential. Any dealings they've had has been successful."