Trump Defends Saudi Prince, Attacks Reporters Over Khashoggi Killing Questions

President Donald Trump lashed out at a White House reporter. The confrontation occurred in the Oval Office. Reporter Mary Bruce asked about the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump called the question “terrible” and the reporter “horrible.”

He defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the exchange. This incident follows another where Trump insulted a different journalist. He called her “piggy” for asking about the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Oval Office Confrontation Escalates Quickly

The tense moment was captured by press pools. According to Reuters, Trump interrupted ABC’s chief White House correspondent. He told her not to embarrass the Saudi leader. “A lot of people didn’t like that gentleman that you’re talking about,” Trump stated.

He then made a broader, controversial remark. “Whether you like him or didn’t like him, things happen,” he said. Trump also threatened the network’s broadcasting license. He called ABC a “crappy company” that should be penalized.

Khashoggi’s Legacy and the “Piggy” Remark

Jamal Khashoggi was a prominent critic of the Saudi government. A BBC report confirmed he was murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018. His death caused global outrage and strained international relations.

Separately, Trump insulted Bloomberg reporter Catherine Lucey. This happened aboard Air Force One. He cut off her question about the Epstein files. “Quiet, piggy,” he told her. The remark sparked immediate criticism from press freedom advocates.

Analysis: A Pattern of Press Antagonism

These events highlight a recurring theme. The administration’s relationship with the press remains deeply strained. Direct insults from a sitting president toward journalists are historically rare. The incidents involve questions on two major, sensitive topics.

The consequences for press freedom are significant. Such attacks can undermine public trust in media institutions. They also create a challenging environment for journalists doing their jobs.

The ongoing disputes over the killing of Jamal Khashoggi continue to provoke strong reactions. President Trump’s defense of the Saudi leadership and his attacks on the press mark a significant moment in White House media relations.

Info at your fingertips

Who was Jamal Khashoggi?

Jamal Khashoggi was a US-based journalist and columnist. He was a known critic of the Saudi Arabian government. He was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018.

What did Trump say about the killing?

President Trump suggested the killing was something that just happens. He told a reporter not to embarrass the Saudi Crown Prince by asking about it. He defended the US alliance with Saudi Arabia.

What is the “piggy” controversy?

Trump used the word “piggy” to insult a Bloomberg News reporter. The reporter was asking about the recently released Jeffrey Epstein files. The incident occurred on Air Force One.

How have news organizations responded?

Major news networks have reported on the incidents extensively. Organizations like ABC have stood by their journalists. The events have sparked discussions about press freedom.

Why is the Khashoggi case significant?

His killing caused international condemnation. US intelligence agencies concluded the Saudi Crown Prince approved the operation. It remains a sensitive issue in international diplomacy.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, BBC, New York Times