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Former President Donald Trump seemed to dismiss the assassination of columnist Khashoggi, labeling him an "very contentious" person that was not well-liked.

Oval Office Talks alongside Saudi Arabian Crown Prince

The statements came throughout a presidential gathering alongside the Saudi crown prince, representing his first visit after the columnist's killing in Istanbul.

US intelligence had previously concluded that Mohammed bin Salman had ordered the assassination, yet the former president stated that he "was unaware" regarding it.

The Former President's Reply to Journalist's Question

Trump further rebuked the reporter who asked about the issue, implying that the broadcaster ought to forfeit its permit.

"Numerous folks were not fond of that person you mention," the former president stated. "Regardless of your opinion, incidents happened, yet he knew nothing."

Prince Mohammed replied, "It hurts and a major error, and we are doing our best to ensure a recurrence."

Economic Deals and Defense Transactions

The talks also highlighted proposed Saudi funding in the US, first announced as $600 billion, however subsequently raised to a trillion-dollar sum.

Trump stated his plan to supply sophisticated F-35 stealth fighter jets to the Saudis, notwithstanding reservations from the Israeli government as well as US intelligence.

Both leaders further acknowledged talks regarding a possible arrangement for Riyadh to formalize diplomatic links with the Israeli government in exchange for a Palestinian state.

Middle Eastern Concerns and Complications

The proposed fighter jet deal has triggered anxiety within Israel, that is the only operator of the F-35 in the region.

Intelligence officials have expressed concern given the kingdom's extensive security ties with the Chinese, bringing up apprehensions about technology theft.

However, the former president maintained that the kingdom is entitled to comparable high-grade aircraft as the Israelis, pointing to them being "reliable friends" of America.

Broader Deals

In addition to arms deals, administration representatives noted hopes for multibillion-dollar Saudi Arabian capital in America's artificial intelligence sector, as well as deeper collaboration in atomic energy development.

"We can announce our plan to boost the proposed investment to around a trillion dollars," the Saudi leader announced.

Diplomatic Issues

The Trump team is also seeking a nuclear and security partnership deal with the kingdom, which President Biden's team previously pursued unsuccessfully to secure.

However, the ongoing situation, including the 2023 incident followed by later Israeli military actions in Gaza, have complicated the chances of an agreement.

"Following the attacks, I believe the cost for Riyadh to sign up to diplomatic ties with Israel has risen considerably," a former US Middle East negotiator commented.

Future Negotiations

"We wish to join the Abraham Accords, however we also want to guarantee a definite route for Palestinian sovereignty," Prince Mohammed remarked.

The former president agreed, noting, "We conducted a very good conversation about diplomatic ties. We discussed about potential solutions."

"We discussed about numerous issues in a short time. We plan to explore additional aspects," he added. "But I think you hold a very good feeling for the Abraham Accords."

Debate Regarding Business Interests

The meeting additionally contentious due to possible connections involving the former president's family financial activities and Gulf nations.

The former president denied any ethical concerns, stating he had "stepped away from his companies" and dedicated "100% of his energy" to governing.

"I have nothing regarding my family's enterprises," he said. "Their actions is fine. They work globally. Their activities are limited in the kingdom, actually. I expect they could do a lot. Any dealings they've had has been successful."