2019: MBS denies involvement in Khashoggi killing, but takes "full responsibility"

TL;DR

Saudi leadership denies direct involvement in journalist's murder, promises thorough investigation.

Transcript

did you order the murder of jamal khashoggi absolutely not this was a heinous crime but i take  full responsibility as a leader in saudi arabia   especially since it was committed by  individuals working for the saudi government   what does that mean that you take responsibility  when a crime is committed against a saudi citizen   by officials work... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥡 Saudi leadership takes responsibility for the Khashoggi murder but denies ordering it.
• 🤨 Ongoing investigations and charges against individuals involved raise questions about culpability.
• 🎁 Denial of CIA allegations and call for evidence to be presented publicly.
• 🇸🇦 Acknowledgment of the harm caused by such crimes to Saudi Arabia and its image.
• 🤩 Dismissal of key advisors implicated in the murder plot.
• 🇸🇦 Saudi efforts to distance themselves from the heinous crime committed in their consulate.
• ❓ Commitment to avoid such incidents in the future through thorough investigations.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the Saudi leadership justify not being aware of the operation?

The Saudi leaders claim it's impossible to monitor three million government workers daily, citing lack of reports to senior officials.

Q: What is the status of the advisors alleged to be involved in the plot?

Two close advisors implicated in the plot were dismissed from their positions, emphasizing no exception for those charged regardless of status.

Q: What is the Saudi government's stance on the allegations from the CIA?

Saudi Arabia refutes allegations of personally targeting Khashoggi and ordering his death, urging any evidence to be presented publicly.

Q: How does Saudi Arabia view threats posed by journalists?

Saudi Arabia denies threats from journalists and acknowledges the harm such actions against journalists cause to the country.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Saudi leadership takes responsibility for Khashoggi murder as a government mistake.

• Amid ongoing investigations, 11 men are charged in the journalist's killing.

• Denial of direct involvement in Khashoggi's murder, emphasizing commitment to avoiding such crimes in the future.