UPDATE: Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, widow of slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, expressed her shock following President Donald Trump’s recent comments during a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office. The remarks, made during a press conference on Wednesday, have ignited renewed outrage over the 2018 murder of her husband.
Just moments ago, Elatr Khashoggi stated, “I was completely shocked to hear what President Trump said,” indicating that she felt the gravity of her husband’s death was being downplayed. Trump’s comments, which suggested that “a lot of people didn’t like that gentleman,” have drawn significant criticism from human rights advocates and media organizations alike.
The Associated Press reported that Trump dismissed U.S. intelligence conclusions indicating that the Crown Prince likely had knowledge of the plot to kill Khashoggi, a prominent critic of the Saudi regime and a columnist for the Washington Post. This revelation, coupled with Trump’s characterization of Khashoggi’s legacy, has intensified discussions about the implications of the U.S.-Saudi relationship.
Why This Matters NOW: The remarks come at a critical time as the international community continues to scrutinize the Saudi government’s human rights record. Khashoggi’s murder in October 2018 sparked global condemnation and ongoing debates about accountability for state-sponsored violence. Trump’s comments appear to minimize the seriousness of the incident, raising concerns among advocates for press freedom and human rights.
As reactions pour in, Elatr Khashoggi’s response serves as a poignant reminder of the personal tragedy behind the headlines. “My husband was a voice for the voiceless,” she asserted, emphasizing the loss felt by many in the fight for journalism and free expression.
Next Steps: The situation is developing, and observers are closely monitoring how the U.S. administration will respond to the backlash. Activists are calling for greater accountability and transparency regarding Khashoggi’s murder, urging lawmakers to reconsider their diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia in light of Trump’s comments.
Expect further updates as this story unfolds, with implications that could resonate deeply within international relations and human rights advocacy.
