The widow of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was killed by Saudi agents in 2018, has called for a formal apology from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The name of journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s widow is Hanan Elatr. Her appeal came after the crown prince described the killing as a “huge mistake”. Posting on X, she stated that there was no legitimate reason for her husband’s murder and said the Saudi leader should “compensate” her for the loss and injustice her family has suffered.
Jamal Khashoggi’s Widow Hanan Elatr Reaction after US Visit
Her comments came after US President Donald Trump decided to formally receive the Saudi crown prince during his first visit to the United States since the journalist’s death. The killing, inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, triggered international outrage and strained diplomatic ties. Hanan Elatr said earlier that she had written to Trump seeking his help in negotiating a financial settlement with Prince Mohammed.
Tagging the U.S. President in her post, she wrote that “There is no justification to murder my husband. While Jamal was a good, transparent and brave man, many people may not have agreed with his opinions and desire for freedom of the press.” She further added that if the crown prince had expressed regret, then *”he should meet me, apologise and compensate me for the murder of my husband, Jamal Khashoggi.”*
Hanan Elatr Call for Justice and Compensation
Speaking to CNN, Hanan said seeing Prince Mohammed welcomed in Washington as if he were a head of state was very difficult, stating *“it’s very painful for me.”* She reflected that it would have been better if Jamal Khashoggi were alive himself to meet the crown prince and discuss his ideas about reforms and the future of Saudi Arabia. Before his death, she said, Jamal hoped one day to get invited to share his views directly with the crown prince, since he had many ideas about ways that would help his country.
Hanan emphasized that her husband’s murder “destroyed my life,” and is hoping that Washington keeps human rights and democratic values in mind as it continues strengthening its ties with Riyadh. She said while diplomatic and defense agreements may be important, “There is something missing,” referring to the absence of “real justice.”
Background of the Killing of Jamal Khashoggi
Jamal Khashoggi, a U.S. resident and harsh critic of the Saudi government, was killed inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. U.S. intelligence agencies concluded that Prince Mohammed had approved the operation, though Saudi authorities denied this. Khashoggi’s body was never recovered. Five people were sentenced to death and three others received jail terms after a closed trial in Saudi Arabia. However, the death sentences were later reduced and Prince Mohammed himself was not among those sanctioned by the United States.
