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Ex-President Donald Trump seemed to dismiss the assassination of journalist Khashoggi, describing him as an "extremely controversial" individual who was not well-liked.

White House Meeting alongside Saudi Arabian Crown Prince

The remarks were made during a White House meeting alongside the Saudi crown prince, representing his first visit after the journalist's death in Istanbul.

US intelligence assessed that Mohammed bin Salman was behind the operation, but the former president maintained that he "had no knowledge" of the incident.

The Former President's Reaction to Journalist's Question

Trump further rebuked the reporter who asked about the issue, suggesting that the broadcaster should lose its license.

"A lot of individuals disliked that man you're talking about," the former president stated. "Irrespective of personal views, things occurred, however he was unaware."

The crown prince responded, "It is distressing and a major error, and we are working hard to stop it from happening again."

Economic Arrangements and Defense Sales

The meeting additionally showcased planned Saudi Arabian investment in the US, originally presented as a $600bn package, however potentially expanded to $1 trillion.

The former president stated his aim to supply top-tier F-35 aircraft to Riyadh, despite concerns by Israeli officials and American spy agencies.

The pair also confirmed discussions about a prospective deal for Riyadh to formalize diplomatic links with Israel in exchange for a sovereign Palestine.

Regional Concerns and Challenges

The proposed F-35 transaction has raised anxiety in Israel, which has exclusive access to the stealth fighter in the Middle East.

US intelligence have expressed concern due to Saudi Arabia's extensive military cooperation with China, raising fears over security breaches.

Nevertheless, the former president stated that the kingdom deserves the same high-grade planes as the Israelis, pointing to them being "reliable friends" of the United States.

Broader Agreements

Besides military transactions, American authorities noted expectations of massive Saudi capital in the US artificial intelligence sector, along with enhanced collaboration in nuclear energy development.

"We can announce that we are increasing the proposed investment to around a trillion dollars," Prince Mohammed announced.

Political Complications

The former president's administration is additionally pursuing a energy and safety arrangement with the kingdom, which President Biden's team previously pursued without success to finalize.

However, the ongoing situation, including the 2023 incident followed by later operations in Gaza, have complicated the likelihood of an agreement.

"Following the attacks, in my view the cost for Riyadh to commit to normalization with Israel has increased considerably," a former American diplomat remarked.

Prospective Negotiations

"We desire to join the normalization agreements, but we require to ensure a definite route for a two-state solution," the crown prince remarked.

Trump concurred, saying, "We held a very good talk on the Abraham Accords. We discussed about potential solutions."

"We talked about numerous issues in a short time. We'll be discussing more details," he added. "Yet, in my view you hold a very good feeling of the agreements."

Controversy Regarding Business Interests

The encounter additionally controversial over perceived links involving the former president's family commercial ventures with Gulf nations.

The former president denied any ethical concerns, claiming he has "withdrawn from his companies" and devoted "full attention" to the presidency.

"I have nothing to do with the family business," he said. "Their business dealings is fine. They work all over. They've done very little with Riyadh, actually. I'm sure opportunities exist. And anything they've done has been very good."