The Saudi ambassador to Britain has shed new light on the tragic assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, six years after the incident. His revelations challenge previously held narratives and add complexity to the ongoing discourse surrounding the case.
New Claims from Riyadh’s Diplomat
Prince Khalid bin Bandar al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the UK, provided unexpected details about Khashoggi’s death during an interview on POLITICO’s Power Play podcast. He dismissed the U.S. intelligence assessment that implicated the Saudi Crown Prince, asserting that the royal family denies involvement.
- Ambassador’s Statement: “We continue to oppose the version of events backed by the U.S. and the U.K.”
- Surviving Suspects: Khalid revealed that individuals allegedly responsible for the murder are still alive, contradicting previous reports of their demise.
These comments reignite debates about accountability and transparency within the Saudi leadership.
Revisiting the CIA Report
The 2021 CIA report had placed significant responsibility on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for approving the operation that led to Khashoggi’s death. However, the ambassador disputes this, claiming no direct orders came from the top.
Key Points:
- The CIA report suggested MBS approved the hit.
- Prince Khalid refutes this, stating it wasn’t a top-level directive.
- He shifted blame to regional actors, notably mentioning Israel’s history with state-sponsored assassinations.
This stance from Saudi Arabia’s top diplomat adds a new layer to international relations and perceptions of Saudi governance.
Impact on International Relations
Prince Khalid’s revelations could have far-reaching implications for Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic ties, especially with Western nations. By challenging established narratives, Saudi Arabia may be seeking to reshape its global image amidst ongoing scrutiny.
Potential Outcomes:
- Diplomatic Strain: Increased tension with the U.S. and U.K. as Saudi Arabia defends its actions.
- Reputation Management: Efforts to distance the royal family from the murder could influence future international collaborations.
- Regional Dynamics: Shifting blame to other countries may alter alliances and power balances in the Middle East.
The ambassador’s statements may lead to renewed investigations and calls for greater accountability.
Saudi Arabia’s Continued Defense
Despite the ambassador’s new disclosures, skepticism remains among international observers. Human rights organizations and some governments continue to call for justice and transparency regarding Khashoggi’s assassination.
Prince Khalid emphasized that the act was an “awful crime” but insisted it does not represent Saudi values. He also pointed fingers at other regional powers, suggesting a broader issue beyond Saudi Arabia alone.
