A former U.S. president has publicly asserted that a senior Saudi Arabian leader bore no responsibility for the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a statement that stands in direct opposition to the conclusions of U.S. intelligence agencies.
The comments were made during a meeting with the Saudi Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, who was visiting the United States. When questioned about the assassination, the former president dismissed the line of inquiry, stating that the Crown Prince “knew nothing about it” and that such questions were an embarrassment to their guest.
This characterization starkly contrasts with a declassified U.S. intelligence assessment from 2021, which determined that the Crown Prince approved an operation to capture or kill Khashoggi. A separate United Nations investigation also implicated Saudi officials in the meticulously planned killing, which occurred inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.
Khashoggi, a columnist for a major U.S. newspaper and a prominent critic of the Saudi leadership, was lured to the consulate to obtain documents. According to intelligence reports and forensic analysis, a team of operatives, which included members of the Crown Prince’s security detail, was waiting for him. Recordings from the premises, obtained by Turkish intelligence, revealed discussions about subduing and dismembering Khashoggi’s body to facilitate its removal from the building.
The UN report detailed that sounds consistent with a struggle, followed by the use of tools and plastic sheeting, were captured on the recordings. Surveillance footage later showed individuals leaving the consulate with large bags.
While the Crown Prince has denied personally ordering the operation, he has acknowledged ultimate responsibility as the nation’s leader, calling the killing a “huge mistake” and stating that systemic reforms have been implemented to prevent a recurrence.
The former president’s recent remarks have drawn criticism, including from Khashoggi’s widow, who expressed her continued grief and frustration that her husband’s remains have not been recovered. She stated that no political consideration can justify the crime that was committed.
The assassination caused a significant international rift at the time, but the former president’s latest comments indicate a continued effort to strengthen bilateral relations, emphasizing strategic partnerships over the findings of the intelligence community.