Trump: The U.S. Will Remain a Steadfast Partner of Saudi Arabia Even If Bin Salman Was Aware of Khashoggi's Murder

On Tuesday, November 20, the U.S. President announced that the United States would remain a "steadfast partner" of Saudi Arabia even if Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was aware of the plot to murder journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was critical of the current Saudi rulers. Donald Trump noted that he does not intend to cancel arms deals with Riyadh because "if we foolishly cancel these contracts, Russia and China will benefit greatly from it." He also mentioned that U.S. intelligence and security agencies are still examining the evidence regarding Khashoggi's murder at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, investigating how he was killed and who was behind the planning. The U.S. President stated, "Our intelligence agencies are still reviewing all findings. Perhaps the Crown Prince was aware of this painful incident. He may have known, or he may not have known." Recently, The Washington Post reported, citing informed sources, that the CIA concluded in its investigations into Khashoggi's murder that Mohammed bin Salman ordered his killing. However, the White House denied this report. Trump stated that the King and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia have vehemently denied the accusation that they were involved in planning Khashoggi's murder. He referred to the relations between Washington and Riyadh, saying that Saudi Arabia has helped the U.S. counter Iran's ambitions, in addition to signing contracts worth $450 billion for arms purchases from the U.S. and other investments, and also helped keep oil prices low. Ultimately, Donald Trump said, "The United States intends to remain a steadfast partner of Saudi Arabia to ensure that the interests of our country, Israel, and our other partners in the region are secured." U.S. lawmakers from both parties have called for punishment against Mohammed bin Salman, which Trump has acknowledged. However, he stated that he is only concerned with American interests and security.