Post by : Rameen Ariff

The widow of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, has expressed strong disapproval of U.S. President Donald Trump’s warm welcome for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his recent visit to the White House. This meeting marked the crown prince’s first official visit to Washington following Khashoggi’s assassination in 2018 at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

Hanan reported feeling both “upset” and “disappointed,” particularly at Trump’s willingness to defend the crown prince despite U.S. intelligence conclusions that implicated the Saudi leader in her husband's murder.

Profile of Jamal Khashoggi

Jamal Khashoggi was an influential Saudi journalist and a resident of the U.S., noted for offering critical views on Saudi governance. He was known for his opinion pieces and contributions to prominent American publications.

On October 2, 2018, Khashoggi entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul for routine paperwork related to his marriage. Investigations revealed that he was killed inside the consulate, with his remains never being recovered.

This brutal act led to widespread outrage and strained diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and the West.

Hanan's Reaction

During her comments, Hanan criticized Trump’s depiction of her husband as “controversial,” stating he was a principled journalist seeking a brighter future for his homeland. She expressed disappointment that instead of acknowledging her husband's tragic fate, Trump chose to commend the crown prince, which added to her emotional turmoil as she continues to seek justice.

Contradictions Between U.S. Findings and Trump’s Remarks

Following Khashoggi’s murder, a U.S. intelligence report released earlier identified the Saudi crown prince as the individual who ordered the killing. In contrast, during the recent meeting, Trump claimed Mohammed bin Salman “did not know” about the incident and seemed to downplay the tragedy.

This statement has sparked renewed criticism from advocates of human rights and journalists’ freedom.

Trump’s Handling of Press Questions

When queried by a journalist about the crown prince's responsibility in Khashoggi's death, Trump intervened, accusing the reporter of trying to “embarrass” his visitor. Hanan expressed shock at witnessing a president rebuke a journalist about a globally significant murder, asserting that her husband valued the principles of free speech and challenging authority.

Hanan's Pursuit of Justice

Hanan disclosed that she has previously reached out to Trump for support in her quest for justice, requesting:

• The return of her husband's remains for a proper burial,

• A formal apology,

• Compensation for the unlawful death of her husband.

Yet, she reported no response from the White House, leaving her feelings of neglect evident.

Hanan further stated her desire for a direct meeting with the crown prince to discuss obtaining her husband’s remains and finding closure.

Hanan's Current Circumstances

After the tragic loss of her husband, Hanan received asylum in the U.S. for her safety, facing emotional challenges while remaining resolute in her pursuit of accountability.

Saudi authorities have raised questions about her marriage's legitimacy, yet Hanan maintains their bond was genuine, reinforcing her right to seek justice.

Political Implications of the Meeting

Trump’s interaction with Mohammed bin Salman signifies potential changes in U.S.-Saudi relations post-murder, portraying an eagerness to mend ties. Critics argue the meeting poses important queries:

• Should U.S. relations with a leader accused of executing a journalist be normalized?

• Does Trump's defense of the crown prince undermine human rights and press freedoms?

• Will America’s image as a defender of democracy suffer?

Hanan’s remarks resonate deeply with these topics.

The Personal Impact

For Hanan, this situation transcends politics—it’s profoundly personal. The violent loss of her husband leaves her still in the dark about his resting place, causing ongoing trauma every time global leaders trivialize the incident or disregard her calls for justice.

Her mission is not one of vengeance, but rather closure, desiring:

• A dignified burial for her husband.

• Acknowledgment of the wrongdoing that occurred.

• A hope that future journalists are not subjected to similar fates.

A Call to Action

Hanan expressed her concerns that powerful nations may overlook justice for convenience. She highlighted her husband's commitment to truth and transparency, urging the world not to forget his legacy.

Determined to secure justice, she vows to continue her battle, asserting that Jamal deserves dignity in death as he practiced dignity in life.

#Global