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Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist and critic of the Saudi government, was murdered on October 2, 2018, in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. His killing was linked to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), who sought to silence dissent. Khashoggi's outspoken views on Saudi policies and his association with the Washington Post made him a target. The murder was carried out by a team of Saudi agents, leading to international outrage and calls for accountability.
President Trump has consistently defended Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often downplaying the severity of Khashoggi's murder. He stated that MBS 'knew nothing' about the killing and referred to it as a 'huge mistake.' Trump's administration emphasized the strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia, focusing on economic ties and arms sales, which complicated responses to human rights abuses.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington was significant as it symbolized the strengthening of US-Saudi relations. During the visit, MBS aimed to secure investments and enhance defense partnerships, showcasing Saudi Arabia's economic ambitions. The visit also highlighted the US's balancing act between strategic interests and human rights concerns, especially following Khashoggi's murder.
The call transcript between Trump and MBS is crucial as it may reveal the nature of their discussions following Khashoggi's murder. Lawmakers, including Eugene Vindman, have called for its release, suggesting it could contain 'shocking' content that reflects Trump's stance on accountability. The implications of this transcript could affect public trust in government transparency and inform ongoing debates about US foreign policy.
The CIA has concluded that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered Jamal Khashoggi's murder. This assessment contradicts Trump's defense of MBS, creating tension between intelligence findings and political rhetoric. The CIA's determination has fueled calls for accountability and has influenced international relations, as many countries reassess their ties with Saudi Arabia in light of this assessment.
Journalists play a critical role in exposing human rights abuses and holding power accountable. Khashoggi's murder underscored the dangers faced by journalists, particularly those who criticize authoritarian regimes. The international outcry following his death highlighted the importance of press freedom and the need for protective measures for journalists working in hostile environments.
Public opinion regarding Saudi Arabia and its leadership has shifted significantly since Khashoggi's murder. Initially, there was widespread outrage over the killing, leading to calls for sanctions and accountability. However, ongoing geopolitical interests, particularly regarding oil and security, have caused some to prioritize economic ties over human rights concerns, resulting in a complex and divided public sentiment.
The US and Saudi Arabia have maintained a strategic partnership since the 1940s, primarily based on oil and security interests. The discovery of oil in Saudi Arabia led to a mutual dependency, with the US providing military support in exchange for stable oil supplies. This relationship has been tested by various events, including the 9/11 attacks and Khashoggi's murder, which raised questions about the ethical implications of continued support.
The legal ramifications of the Trump-MBS call could include potential investigations into whether Trump's actions violated any laws regarding foreign relations and transparency. If the call contained discussions about covering up Khashoggi's murder or quid pro quo arrangements, it could lead to congressional inquiries or legal challenges regarding the administration's handling of foreign policy and accountability.
Other countries have expressed concern over US-Saudi relations, particularly in light of Khashoggi's murder. Many allies have criticized the US for its perceived complicity in ignoring human rights abuses for strategic interests. Countries in Europe, for example, have called for sanctions against Saudi officials and have questioned arms sales to the kingdom, reflecting a growing demand for accountability and ethical foreign policy.
