Aaron David Miller on US-Saudi Relations and Jamal Khashoggi's Murder

US-Saudi Relations Under Trump

• 🎯 The Trump administration provided significant benefits to Saudi Arabia, with reciprocity details remaining unclear.
• 💡 The visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) to the US was primarily aimed at signaling that human rights concerns, including the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, are no longer a US priority.
• 👑 MBS is positioned for a long tenure as Saudi King, potentially ruling for 50 years, and seeks to maximize gains from the US while maintaining a 360-degree foreign policy that includes Russia and China.

Trump's Stance on Khashoggi's Murder

• 🗣️ President Trump stated that MBS "knew nothing about" the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, dismissing the journalist as "extremely controversial" and suggesting "things happen."
• 💔 Khashoggi's widow expressed deep hurt and concern that such a statement undermines freedom for journalists and justifies horrific crimes.
• ⚖️ The US intelligence report in 2021 implicated MBS in Khashoggi's death, contrasting with the administration's public statements.

Shifting US Policy Towards Saudi Arabia

• 🚀 The designation of Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, alongside 18 other countries, is presented as a significant but not unique distinction.
• ✈️ Trump's first foreign trip in 2017 included Saudi Arabia, highlighting its importance to him and representing a diplomatic triumph with the Abraham Accords.
• 💰 Saudi Arabia is seen as crucial for hydrocarbons, oil, and business opportunities for the Trump organization, blurring lines between national interest and personal business.

Human Rights and Military Aid

• 🚫 The speaker argues that for the Trump administration, Saudi Arabia is a valued partner, and issues like Khashoggi's killing, repression, and arbitrary detention are disregarded.
• ✈️ The potential provision of F-35 ISE jets to Saudi Arabia is viewed with skepticism, questioning the administration's willingness to provide advanced technology without strict intelligence constraints, especially concerning access by China.
• ✅ The desire to please MBS appears to be a key driver for the administration's actions, including the F-35 consideration.