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Former President Trump seemed to dismiss the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, describing him as an "highly divisive" individual who was unpopular.

Oval Office Talks with Saudi Arabian Leader

The statements were made amid a presidential meeting alongside Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, marking the prince's initial trip since Khashoggi's murder in Istanbul.

US intelligence determined that the prince was behind the assassination, yet Trump insisted that the crown prince "had no knowledge" about it.

The Former President's Reaction to Journalist's Inquiry

Trump additionally attacked the reporter who brought up the matter, proposing that the broadcaster should lose its broadcasting rights.

"A lot of individuals did not like that person you're talking about," Trump stated. "Regardless of your opinion, events unfolded, but he knew nothing."

The Saudi leader stated, "It hurts and it's a huge mistake, and we are striving to stop a recurrence."

Economic Agreements and Defense Transactions

The talks also highlighted planned Saudi Arabian spending in the United States, originally presented as $600 billion, but potentially expanded to $1 trillion.

The former president announced his intention to supply advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Riyadh, despite reservations from Israel as well as American spy agencies.

The two men further acknowledged discussions regarding a possible agreement for Saudi Arabia to establish diplomatic links with the Israeli government in exchange for a sovereign Palestine.

Middle Eastern Issues and Challenges

The proposed fighter jet deal has triggered concern within Israel, that has exclusive access to the F-35 in the Middle East.

US intelligence are apprehensive because of Riyadh's extensive security ties with China, bringing up fears over technology theft.

Nonetheless, the former president stated that the kingdom should receive equivalent high-grade planes as Tel Aviv, noting them being "strong partners" of the United States.

Broader Deals

In addition to arms deals, American authorities noted hopes for multibillion-dollar Saudi Arabian funding in America's AI industry, as well as deeper collaboration in atomic energy projects.

"We confirm our plan to boost the proposed investment to nearly $1 trillion," the crown prince stated.

Diplomatic Complications

The former president's administration is also seeking a energy and safety cooperation agreement with the kingdom, which President Biden's team previously pursued but failed to finalize.

But, recent events, including the October assault and subsequent operations in Gaza, have made difficult the chances of normalization.

"After October 7, in my view the conditions for Riyadh to commit to relations with the Israelis has risen considerably," an ex- American diplomat remarked.

Prospective Negotiations

"We wish to be part the diplomatic deals, but we require to secure a definite route toward Palestinian statehood," the Saudi leader stated.

The former president agreed, stating, "We've had a productive conversation about diplomatic ties. We talked about potential solutions."

"We covered about a lot in a short time. We will continue more details," he concluded. "However, I believe you have a very good feeling of the agreements."

Controversy Regarding Commercial Links

The meeting was also disputed over possible overlap between Trump's relatives financial activities and Gulf countries.

The former president denied any ethical concerns, stating he had "withdrawn from his business empire" while dedicated "100% of his energy" to governing.

"I have no involvement to do with their commercial activities," he remarked. "What my family does is permissible. They work all over. Their activities are limited with Saudi Arabia, truthfully. I believe they could do a lot. Any dealings they've had has been very good."