‘Things happens’: Trump defends Saudi Crown Prince over journalist Khashoggi’s murder, calls it ‘fake news’

US President Doland Trump on Tuesday rejected the findings of American intelligence agencies that said Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was aware of the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump said the prince “knew nothing” about it. The Saudi leader was visiting Washington for the first time in seven years, as both countries tried to repair relations strained after Khashoggi’s death. Khashoggi had been a strong critic of the Saudi government.

During a press interaction, an ABC News reporter asked Trump why Americans should trust the crown prince when US intelligence believed he approved the killing. Trump quickly interrupted the question. He told the reporter, “You are fake news,” and then defended the prince. Trump added that Khashoggi had been a “very controversial person” and that “things happen.” He insisted the crown prince was not involved and said the reporter should not ask such questions that could make the guest uncomfortable.

US intelligence agencies had earlier concluded that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman likely approved the killing of Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist living in the United States. The Associated Press reported this using government findings that were released in 2021, during the early months of the Biden administration.

When asked about the matter, the crown prince said the incident was very upsetting. He explained that it was painful to see anyone lose their life without a real reason or in a way that was not lawful. He added that Saudi Arabia had since strengthened its systems to prevent anything like that from happening again. “It was painful, and it was a major mistake,” he told reporters.

Trump also praised the crown prince, saying Saudi Arabia has made progress on human rights, although he did not provide examples. “I’m very proud of the work he has done,” Trump said, calling the prince a “good friend.” He said the crown prince had achieved “incredible” things.

Earlier in the day, Trump welcomed Prince Mohammed to the White House with an elaborate ceremony. The event included a military flyover and music from the US Marine band. Although it was not officially a state visit – because the crown prince is not the head of state – Prince Mohammed has been handling most government responsibilities for his father, King Salman, who is 89 and has faced health issues in recent years.