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One-time President Donald Trump has largely ignored the assassination of columnist Khashoggi, labeling him an "highly divisive" figure that was disliked.

Oval Office Meeting with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince

The statements were made during a White House session alongside the Saudi crown prince, marking the prince's initial trip since the journalist's death abroad.

US intelligence had previously concluded that Mohammed bin Salman was behind the assassination, but Trump stated that he "had no knowledge" about it.

The Former President's Reply to Reporter's Inquiry

Trump also criticized the reporter who raised the issue, implying that the media outlet deserve to lose its permit.

"A lot of individuals disliked that gentleman you are referring to," the former president remarked. "Regardless of your opinion, incidents happened, however he was unaware."

The crown prince replied, "It hurts and it's a huge mistake, and we are striving to prevent it from happening again."

Financial Arrangements and Defense Sales

The meeting also highlighted proposed Saudi investment in America, initially billed as $600 billion, however later increased to one trillion dollars.

Trump stated his plan to supply sophisticated F-35 stealth fighter jets to the Saudis, notwithstanding objections from the Israeli government and intelligence communities.

Both leaders also confirmed talks regarding a possible deal for Riyadh to normalize ties with the Israeli government in exchange for a two-state solution.

Regional Tensions and Challenges

The proposed F-35 transaction has triggered concern within Israel, that currently possesses the F-35 in the region.

Intelligence officials have expressed concern given the kingdom's strong military cooperation with the Chinese, highlighting concerns over intellectual property risks.

Nonetheless, Trump insisted that the kingdom deserves comparable high-grade jets as Tel Aviv, citing their status as "good allies" of the United States.

Broader Arrangements

In addition to arms deals, American authorities stated plans for multibillion-dollar Saudi Arabian investment in the United States' AI industry, plus greater collaboration in nuclear energy projects.

"We confirm that we will raise the initial amount to nearly $1 trillion," the Saudi leader stated.

Diplomatic Issues

The Trump team is also seeking an atomic and defense arrangement with Riyadh, that the Biden administration previously attempted unsuccessfully to finalize.

However, the ongoing situation, such as the October assault followed by ensuing bombardment in Gaza, have made difficult the prospects of normalization.

"After October 7, I think the conditions for Riyadh to sign up to diplomatic ties with Tel Aviv has increased considerably," a former American diplomat remarked.

Future Talks

"We wish to join the normalization agreements, but we require to guarantee a concrete plan for Palestinian sovereignty," Prince Mohammed stated.

Trump agreed, stating, "We held an excellent conversation on the Abraham Accords. We discussed about potential solutions."

"We talked about numerous issues quickly. We'll be discussing additional aspects," he concluded. "But I think you have a strong understanding regarding normalization."

Controversy Regarding Business Interests

The encounter further disputed over perceived links between the Trump family's commercial ventures with Middle Eastern countries.

Trump dismissed the possibility of impropriety, asserting he had "relinquished control from his companies" and committed "full attention" to the presidency.

"I am not connected regarding the family business," he stated. "Their actions is acceptable. They do business globally. Their activities are limited with Riyadh, actually. I'm sure they could do a lot. And anything they've done has been positive."