Khashoggi’s Widow Confronts Trump Over “Controversial” Remarks

Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, the widow of slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, has publicly responded to former President Donald Trump. Her statement comes after Trump characterized her late husband as “controversial.” This occurred during Trump’s defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The exchange reignites the painful chapter of Khashoggi’s 2018 assassination. According to Reuters, U.S. intelligence concluded the Saudi Crown Prince was directly involved. Hanan’s rebuttal offers a deeply personal counterpoint to the political narrative.

Widow Rebuts Characterization of Slain Journalist

Hanan Elatr Khashoggi directly refuted Trump’s description of her husband. She told CNN the remarks were “not true” and deeply upsetting. She remembered Jamal as a transparent and kind man loved by many.

She argued that disagreeing with someone does not justify their murder. Her message emphasized that Khashoggi’s advocacy for press freedom should not be used against him. This defense paints a picture of the journalist starkly different from Trump’s comments.

The widow’s plea extends beyond just correcting the record. She expressed a desire to meet with Trump to introduce him to the “real Jamal.” She believes such a meeting would completely change his opinion.

A Political Embrace and a Personal Wound

Trump’s comments were made during a high-profile meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The event was marked by a warm welcome and public displays of camaraderie. Trump praised the Crown Prince’s leadership and downplayed the Khashoggi affair.

He suggested the prince knew nothing about the killing, stating “things happen.” This clean chit from a former U.S. president was a significant moment for Saudi relations. For the Khashoggi family, it was a profound disappointment.

Hanan called on the Crown Prince to take direct responsibility. She stated that since he expressed sorrow, he should apologize to her personally. She also mentioned the need for compensation for her husband’s murder.

The widow’s response highlights the enduring human cost of the Khashoggi assassination. Her defense of her husband’s legacy stands in stark contrast to the political pragmatism displayed by world leaders. The case of Jamal Khashoggi continues to resonate at the intersection of human rights and international diplomacy.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Jamal Khashoggi?

Jamal Khashoggi was a Saudi journalist and columnist for the Washington Post. He was a vocal critic of the Saudi government and its policies. He was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018.

What did U.S. intelligence conclude about his death?

A U.S. intelligence assessment found that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman approved the operation that led to Khashoggi’s killing. The report declassified in 2021 pointed to the prince’s direct involvement.

How did Trump characterize Khashoggi?

Donald Trump described the journalist as an “extremely controversial” figure. He also stated that “a lot of people didn’t like that gentleman.” These remarks were made while defending the Saudi Crown Prince.

What was Hanan Elatr Khashoggi’s response?

Khashoggi’s widow called Trump’s description untrue and upsetting. She defended her husband’s character and his work advocating for a free press. She also expressed a wish to meet Trump to change his perception.

What did Hanan ask of the Saudi Crown Prince?

She publicly called for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to apologize to her directly. She also stated that he should provide compensation for the murder of her husband, Jamal Khashoggi.