Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Trump Defends MBS at White House, Signals F-35 Sale as Saudis Pledge $1 Trillion

The reception signals a transactional reset likely to face congressional and regional review.

Overview

  • President Donald Trump said Mohammed bin Salman knew nothing about Jamal Khashoggi’s 2018 murder, called the journalist “extremely controversial,” and admonished a reporter who raised the case.
  • Trump said the United States will move to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a shift from the long-standing practice of limiting the aircraft to Israel that would be scrutinized by Congress.
  • Mohammed bin Salman announced that planned Saudi investments in the United States would rise to $1 trillion, up from the $600 billion previously signaled in May.
  • People familiar with the talks said the sides are considering a framework for civilian nuclear cooperation, an initiative that remains under negotiation and would require strict U.S. oversight.
  • The crown prince expressed openness to joining the Abraham Accords contingent on a clear path to a two-state solution, as human-rights groups and Khashoggi’s widow condemned the high-profile welcome.