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Ex-President Donald Trump appeared to shrug off the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, labeling him an "highly divisive" figure that was unpopular.

White House Meeting with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince

These comments were made amid a presidential meeting with Prince Mohammed, marking his first visit after Khashoggi's murder in Istanbul.

American spy agencies had previously concluded that the Saudi leader had ordered the assassination, yet Trump maintained that the prince "had no knowledge" of the incident.

Trump's Reaction to Journalist's Inquiry

Trump also criticized the journalist who asked about the matter, proposing that the network deserve to lose its license.

"A lot of individuals did not like that man you're talking about," the former president commented. "Whether you like him or not, things occurred, however he knew nothing."

Prince Mohammed responded, "It is distressing and a major error, and we are striving to ensure it from happening again."

Financial Agreements and Military Transactions

The talks additionally showcased promised Saudi investment in the United States, initially billed as $600 billion, though subsequently raised to a trillion-dollar sum.

Trump announced his aim to supply advanced F-35 aircraft to the Saudis, notwithstanding concerns from the Israeli government as well as American spy agencies.

The two men further acknowledged discussions on a potential arrangement for Riyadh to normalize diplomatic links with Israel in return for a sovereign Palestine.

Regional Concerns and Complications

The potential fighter jet deal has triggered concern in Israel, which currently possesses the advanced plane in the Middle East.

US intelligence are also worried due to Saudi Arabia's extensive military cooperation with China, raising apprehensions about security breaches.

Nonetheless, Trump maintained that the kingdom should receive the same top-level jets as Israel, noting their role as "reliable friends" of the US.

Broader Agreements

Besides weapons sales, American authorities mentioned expectations of massive Saudi Arabian investment in America's AI industry, as well as deeper collaboration on atomic energy initiatives.

"We confirm our plan to boost that $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion," the crown prince stated.

Political Issues

The Trump administration is aiming a nuclear and security partnership deal with Riyadh, that the current government previously attempted but failed to finalize.

However, the ongoing situation, such as the 2023 incident and ensuing Israeli military actions in Palestinian territories, have complicated the prospects of such a deal.

"Post-October 7, in my view the cost for the kingdom to commit to normalization with Tel Aviv has risen significantly," an ex- American diplomat remarked.

Future Discussions

"We desire to join the Abraham Accords, however we require to guarantee a clear path for a two-state solution," Prince Mohammed remarked.

Trump echoed, noting, "We've had an excellent talk about diplomatic ties. We talked about potential solutions."

"We covered about many topics quickly. We plan to explore additional aspects," Trump added. "However, I believe you have a very good feeling for the Abraham Accords."

Criticism Over Business Interests

The meeting further controversial because of perceived links between Trump's relatives financial activities and Middle Eastern countries.

The former president dismissed any ethical concerns, stating he has "withdrawn from his business empire" while committed "all his efforts" to the presidency.

"I have no involvement to do with their commercial activities," he remarked. "Their business dealings is permissible. They do business worldwide. They have minimal involvement in the kingdom, in fact. I'm sure they could do a lot. Any dealings they've had has been very good."