ABC News’ Mary Bruce recently sat down with President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss the ongoing controversy surrounding the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the anger of some 9/11 families over the White House visit.
The interview, which aired on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday, shed light on the tense relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia in the wake of Khashoggi’s brutal killing. The journalist, who was a vocal critic of the Saudi government, was murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey in October 2018.
During the interview, Bruce asked President Trump about his decision to welcome Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House just months after Khashoggi’s murder. The President defended his decision, stating that the United States has a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia and that the Crown Prince has denied any involvement in the journalist’s death.
“I think it’s been heavily investigated,” President Trump said. “By everybody. I mean, I’ve seen so many different reports.”
However, Bruce pressed further, asking the President if he believed the Crown Prince’s denials. President Trump responded by saying, “He told me that he had nothing to do with it. He told me that, I would say, maybe five times at different points, as recently as a few days ago.”
The President also emphasized the importance of the United States’ relationship with Saudi Arabia, stating that the country is a key ally in the fight against terrorism and a major purchaser of American weapons.
Bruce also brought up the anger of some 9/11 families over the White House visit, as many believe that the Saudi government played a role in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. President Trump acknowledged their concerns, but reiterated that the United States has a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia and that the Crown Prince has denied any involvement in the attacks.
“I understand the situation very well,” President Trump said. “I’m also dealing with a country that’s a very good ally of ours. They’ve been helping us far more than they’re hurting us.”
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also addressed the controversy surrounding Khashoggi’s murder, stating that it was a “heinous crime” and that those responsible will be held accountable. He also expressed his condolences to Khashoggi’s family and the families of the 9/11 victims.
“We are very sorry for what happened,” the Crown Prince said. “It happened under my watch. I take full responsibility. I will work to make sure that it doesn’t happen again.”
The interview sparked mixed reactions, with some praising President Trump for maintaining a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia and others criticizing him for not taking a stronger stance against the Crown Prince.
However, one thing is clear – the murder of Jamal Khashoggi and the controversy surrounding it have put a strain on the relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia. As the investigation into Khashoggi’s death continues, it is important for both countries to address the issue and work towards finding a resolution.
In the meantime, the families of the 9/11 victims continue to seek justice and answers. Their anger and frustration are understandable, and it is important for their voices to be heard and their concerns to be addressed.
As for the United States and Saudi Arabia, it is crucial for both countries to maintain open communication and work towards finding a resolution that is just and fair for all parties involved. The relationship between these two nations is vital for global security and stability, and it is important for them to continue to work together towards common goals.
In conclusion, the interview between ABC News’ Mary Bruce, President Donald Trump, and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman shed light on the ongoing controversy surrounding the murder of Jamal Khashoggi and the anger of some 9/11 families. While the situation remains complex and sensitive, it is important for all parties involved to continue to address the issue and work towards finding a resolution that is just and fair.
