Saudi FM: Justice for Khashoggi is a Saudi demand before it is an international one

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir addresses a news conference in the desert kingdom's capital Riyadh on November 15, 2018. (AFP)
Updated 20 November 2018
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Saudi FM: Justice for Khashoggi is a Saudi demand before it is an international one

  • Anyone seeking justice for Khashoggi should provide evidence they have to Saudi judiciary, says Al-Jubeir
  • King Salman and his crown prince a ‘red line’ for Saudi people, Saudi FM reiterates

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir has reiterated that the authorities in the Kingdom are more determined than those in any other country that the people guilty of killing Jamal Khashoggi should be held to account.

The death of the Saudi journalist, who was killed in the Kingdom’s consulate in Istanbul on Oct. 2, provoked international outrage. Al-Jubeir said that the pursuit of justice for the slain journalist is first and foremost a Saudi demand, ahead of any call for action from other countries.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper, the minister said Saudi Arabia was investigating the case because it involved a Saudi citizen, and that anyone with information should contact the Saudi judiciary and pass it on. Saudi Arabia’s public prosecutor is seeking the death penalty for five of 11 suspects so far charged with murdering journalist.

The Kingdom’s top diplomat also talked about the strong links between the Saudi leaders and their people. He said that any attack on the Kingdom’s leadership, represented by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, represents a red line and there will be no tolerance of any moves against the leadership or for “any attempts to undermine...our leadership by anyone, under any pretext.”

Where does Saudi diplomacy stand today, after the unprecedented attack on the Kingdom in light of the murder of Mr. Khashoggi?

A: First I would express my deepest condolences to the family of Jamal Khashoggi – may God rest his soul.

As for Saudi diplomacy, Saudi Arabia is a leading country, not only in the Arab and Islamic worlds, but also internationally. Saudi Arabia has always been a bulwark for peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world. It has always confronted and defeated the forces of evil and destruction. Therefore, and due to what this diplomacy represents, Saudi Arabia stands on firm ground and has a well-founded position, whatever the circumstances and challenges. As for the attacks on the Kingdom after the terrible crime that led to the death of Jamal Khashoggi, the Kingdom’s leadership ordered the public prosecutor to investigate the case and hold all the culprits accountable. Consequently, the Public Prosecution sent the culprits to court. King Salman ordered the formation of a committee headed by the Crown Prince to supervise the procedures in the General Intelligence Presidency and restructure this body to ensure that such crimes will not occur in the future. The Kingdom has taken all necessary measures to achieve justice and hold accountable all those involved in the murder of Saudi citizen Jamal Khashoggi. As for the media campaigns and attempts to politicize this case, those that stand behind these efforts and their motives are now exposed, especially after the transparent announcement of the results of the investigations and the referral of the matter to the courts. Throughout history, the Kingdom has been the target of many media tendentious campaigns, and different sources and arguments were used to undermine the role of the Kingdom and its position.

The United States imposed sanctions on a number of persons. How do you evaluate the US sanctions on the case and how do you see the future of Saudi-US relations?

A: Our relations with the United States are strategic, and we have common and vital interests in terms of the security and stability of the region and the world. The Kingdom’s leadership is keen on maintaining and promoting the strategic relations and the historic partnership with the US, which has spanned over more than seven decades. We also appreciate the interest of the US government and the positions of friendly countries around the world regarding the issue of Jamal Khashoggi and their support for the procedures taken by the Kingdom and its leadership to ensure justice and accountability. As for the imposed sanctions, they were sanctions against individuals and were not targeted at the Kingdom’s government or economy.

How do you see the Turkish statements that highlighted the importance of an international investigation into this case?

A: We reject any attempts to politically exploit Khashoggi’s case, and those who seek justice should submit the evidence they have to the Saudi judiciary, the sole competent body in this case.

In light of the Turkish position, which apparently sought to politicize the issue, how do you see the future of Saudi-Turkish relations?

A: We appreciate the positive Turkish attitude towards the formation of the Joint Task Force. The Kingdom cooperated with the Turkish side, and the Saudi Public Prosecution asked its Turkish counterpart to provide any detailed evidence through three memoranda. Unfortunately, the Public Prosecution has not yet received the requested evidence. We hope that the Turkish authorities will provide the Public Prosecution with the evidence related to the case to be referred to the court. I would like to emphasize that the legal measures that were taken, ensure justice and accountability and thwart any attempts to politicize the case.

As you know, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are two important countries in the Islamic world, linked by historic ties. Unfortunately, some statements made by some individuals in Turkey do not serve this purpose, but rather, they strain these ties. We in Saudi Arabia, do not want this to happen because it will hinder us from addressing important issues, most notable of which is the solidarity of the Islamic World. The Kingdom has put the case of Jamal Khashoggi in its legal framework and it won’t accept any politicization of this issue, because it does not serve the ties between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, nor does it serve cooperation among Islamic countries.

What is your position on the Turkish statements, which stressed that a senior Saudi figure ordered the killing of Khashoggi (in an indirect reference to the Crown Prince)?

A: We have already inquired from the Turkish government – at its highest levels – about these statements and their meaning, and they affirmed that these statements were not made in reference to the Crown Prince. We have informed them that if they have any evidence, they should provide it to the Public Prosecution. we have heard many statements regarding this but the Public Prosecution said that no evidence was presented so far. Our goal is to collect all information and evidence on this issue for the sake of the investigations; and to prevent media influence that does not serve the interest of justice, which is a requirement for all of us.

I would like to highlight here that the Saudi leadership represented by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, is a redline and we will not tolerate any attempts to undermine our leadership from any party under any pretext, because they represent every Saudi citizen.

But media reports in the United States indicated that the US intelligence assessment is that the Crown Prince issued the order. What is your response to this?

A: I have seen the media reports that you are referring to, they are leaks that have not been officially announced, and I noted that they are based on assessment and not conclusive evidence. In all cases, we, in the Kingdom, know that such allegations about the Crown Prince are completely not true and we totally reject them; whether such allegations are made through leaks or otherwise. We also saw how some stories stating that the Saudi ambassador to the United States, Prince Khalid bin Salman contacted Mr. Khashoggi before the latter went to the Consulate, and this is also not true at all and has been firmly refuted, which points to the conclusion that the sources of these leaks are not reliable.

Saudi Arabia has pledged to conduct full and transparent investigations to uncover the truth of the killing of Jamal Khashoggi. The Public Prosecution presented the results of its investigations last Thursday. How do you assess the international reaction to the results of the investigations?

A: The Kingdom has not investigated the death of Jamal Khashoggi for the sake of international public opinion. We investigated it because it is a crime that was committed against a Saudi citizen. This is unacceptable and those who committed the crime must be held accountable. The Public Prosecution announced the preliminary results and that the investigations are still ongoing. The outcome of the investigation so far was enough to indict 11 individuals and refer them to court. There are still investigations with the rest of those in custody. The trial will move forward according to the evidence and confessions obtained.

Achieving justice in this case is a Saudi demand before being an international one, especially that the crime was compounded by the fact that those people presented a false and misleading report about what happened at the Consulate that day.

More than 45 days have passed since the killing of Jamal Khashoggi, yet the location of the body is still unknown, amid conflicting stories and information about what actually happened... Do you know the truth about that?

A: The Public Prosecution issued a statement last Thursday on the results of the investigation based on the evidence and confessions that were obtained. It also confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing. It is important to note that the cooperation of the Turkish side and the provision of their evidence will help in reaching the truth. As the Public Prosecution had stated, its findings are based on its investigations and it hopes that the Turkish side will present all the evidence in their possession.

This brings us back to the subject of the story presented by the Kingdom about the truth of what happened, which has changed several times and the international media shed a light on this point. Is this the final version?

A: What happened was as follows: those who carried out the crime presented a misleading and false report, and accordingly the story was denied. When conflicting reports became apparent that contradicted the information they presented in their report, King Salman ordered the Public Prosecutor to conduct an investigation, which resulted in the preliminary findings that were first announced by the Public Prosecutor. As the investigations continued, and sufficient evidence and confessions were gathered to refer the matter to court; the Public Prosecutor announced the results of his investigation and indicted a number of individuals and referred them to court. Should the investigation uncover any new evidence the Public Prosecution will announce that in a transparent manner.

The Turkish president announced that his country has presented sound recordings to a Saudi intelligence official? Is it true that you have listened to the recordings of Ankara?

A: The Public Prosecution has announced that they did not receive any evidence from the Turkish side, and we hope that the Turkish authorities will provide whatever evidence in their possession, including any recordings, so that the Public Prosecution could provide such evidence formally to the courts. What we seek is to obtain any evidence to achieve justice in this case, in a transparent manner.

Do you fear any repercussion on defence contracts and equipment with some countries? What options do you have in this regard, especially since you are still involved in the war in Yemen and working to confront Iranian threats from your territory?

A: The Kingdom is committed to defend its land, its borders and its people against any regional threats. We always prefer to procure our defence requirements from our traditional allies; as this also contributes to the strengthening of our strategic relations. However, the Kingdom’s responsibility to defend its land and people requires that we secure the necessary defence capabilities regardless of the source.

To what extent will the death of Jamal Khashoggi affect the Kingdom’s relations with its partners around the world, especially in light of what is being circulated on the imposition of sanctions on the Kingdom?

A: The Kingdom’s relations with its partners around the world are strategic and important in terms of facing common challenges and maintaining security and stability in the region and the world. The Kingdom’s partners around the world appreciate its role and position. We are in constant contact with our partners and the Kingdom was the first to take action against the suspects in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, followed by other countries that imposed measures on some individuals in a way that does not affect the strategic relations or common political and economic interests for Saudi Arabia and its allies.


Riyadh event highlights women’s role in diplomacy

Updated 17 June 2025
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Riyadh event highlights women’s role in diplomacy

  • Speech stresses progress made under King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

RIYADH: The Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies in Riyadh has held a symposium to mark the forthcoming International Day of Women in Diplomacy. It was attended by Vice Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji, female diplomatic leaders, and ambassadors accredited to the Kingdom.

Elkhereiji spoke of the importance of empowering women in diplomacy, citing the progress made under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in light of the Vision 2030 reform plan.

He noted that Saudi women now serve as ambassadors, leaders, and negotiators on the global stage, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The symposium discussed efforts to support women’s diplomatic careers, the role of men in advancing change, and the unique contributions women bring to diplomacy.

Topics also included the global rise of women in diplomacy, their impact on foreign and domestic policy, and ways to enhance female participation in multilateral forums to address future challenges.


Saudi theatrical show ‘Terhal’ returns to Diriyah

Updated 52 min 36 sec ago
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Saudi theatrical show ‘Terhal’ returns to Diriyah

  • “Terhal” is a pioneering Saudi production which boasts advanced lighting and visual technology

RIYADH: The Ministry of Culture is to present the theatrical performance “Terhal” from Aug. 4-25 at Mayadeen Venue in Diriyah.

“Terhal” is a pioneering Saudi production which boasts advanced lighting and visual technology, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

It offers a visually captivating experience, telling the story of a young Saudi man who dreams of shaping his country’s future.

His journey across the Kingdom takes him through diverse landscapes and rich traditions, helping him to rediscover Saudi Arabia’s cultural and natural heritage. He returns to his village at the end with renewed confidence, wisdom, and hope.

The show features stunning scenes inspired by Saudi landscapes, and highlights young Saudi talents alongside renowned international performers.

The second edition of “Terhal” builds on the success of its 2023 debut which celebrated Saudi culture, from performing arts to handicrafts, traditional attire and cuisine.

 


80% of Saudi adults reported using AI tools, with 1 in 3 using them regularly

The results of the study were unveiled during an event in Riyadh on Tuesday. (AN photo)
Updated 17 June 2025
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80% of Saudi adults reported using AI tools, with 1 in 3 using them regularly

  • The study consisted of a poll surveying 1,059 adults and 370 business leaders based in the Kingdom in March 2025

RIYADH: A study has revealed that 80 percent of Saudi adults now use AI tools, with one in three using them regularly.

This is almost double the number of adults in the US who report using one of the large language model-based chatbots — which was found to be 52 percent in a recent study by Elon University.

The findings are “a clear demonstration that technology and collaboration can unlock potential, and that we can directly contribute to the ambition of the Kingdom and their vision for the future,” said Anthony Nakache, MENA managing director for Google — which created the report with research agency Public First.

The study consisted of a poll surveying 1,059 adults and 370 business leaders based in the Kingdom in March 2025.

It also interviewed people and businesses about their experiences using Google technology and data services.

The study found that people and businesses are embracing Al, with 53 percent of businesses in the Kingdom relying on at least one Al tool in their workflows.

About 90 percent of adults in Saudi Arabia say becoming an Al superpower should be a top priority and 88 percent of businesses agree that Al is an important opportunity for the Saudi economy.

The study also looked at Saudi Arabia’s usage of Google’s Gemini, and found that 53 percent of adults said they had used the Al assistant, with one in three users now using it daily.

The report found that 86 percent of users agreed that the tool helped them to be more productive.

A total of 90 percent of public sector workers said that AI-enabled tools help them to be more productive at work, and 70 percent said their job would be harder without access to AI tools.

“The report reflects our investment in accelerating the Kingdom’s ambitious journey toward a diversified, AI-driven economy,” Nakache added.

“Through significant investments, strong local partnerships and our AI-powered tools, we’re bringing substantial economic value and empowering individuals, businesses and communities,” he said.

Public First is a global policy and strategy consultancy specializing in economic modeling and opinion research.


Saudi Arabia marks UN’s World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

The world needs to restore approximately 1.5 billion hectares of land by 2030 to combat desertification.
Updated 17 June 2025
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Saudi Arabia marks UN’s World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

  • Event aims to spotlight urgent need to address growing challenges

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has marked the UN’s World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, an awareness event held annually on June 17.

The day aims to spotlight the urgent need to address the growing challenges of land degradation, desertification and drought.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture said the event emphasized the importance of land restoration as a driver of opportunity, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It helps to raise awareness of the critical role healthy ecosystems play in creating jobs, enhancing food and water security and strengthening economic resilience, the ministry added.

It also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s diverse geography and climate which is home to a unique biodiversity adapted to a range of climatic conditions.

The Kingdom has launched several major environmental initiatives, most notably the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to plant 10 billion trees over the coming decades.

The Kingdom is currently implementing 86 initiatives and programs with total investments exceeding SR705 billion ($188 billion), covering all aspects of the green economy.

These initiatives align with the core objectives of the SGI: reducing carbon emissions, expanding national afforestation, and protecting terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

More than 313,000 hectares of degraded land across the Kingdom have now been restored, and 115 million trees planted.

MEWA has also launched the Environmental Awareness Initiative, which is designed to raise environmental literacy and support Sustainable Development Goals.

The plan also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and cross-sector collaboration — from public institutions to private and non-profit entities.

As part of its efforts to monitor marine habitats, the ministry has conducted extensive field surveys along the Red Sea coast, covering over 600 coral reef sites, 200 seagrass locations and 100 mangrove areas.

According to UN data, desertification, land degradation and drought remain among the most pressing environmental challenges today, impacting up to 40 percent of the Earth’s land surface.

As the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) reaches its midpoint, there is a critical need to accelerate restoration efforts on a global scale.

If current trends continue, the world will need to restore 1.5 billion hectares of land by 2030, creating a restoration economy valued at over $1 trillion.

The planet is currently losing healthy land at a rate equivalent to four football fields per second.

Munira Al-Hazani, president and founder of the Saudi Botanical Society, told Arab News: “Today, as we commemorate the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, the Saudi Botanical Society renews its steadfast commitment to safeguarding the Kingdom’s invaluable botanical heritage and tackling the critical environmental challenges that threaten our land.

“At this distinguished event, SABS had the privilege of presenting its mission through a dedicated pavilion — an inspiring botanical garden that embodies our shared commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable solutions.

“On this critical day, I urge all sectors — governmental, private, and civil society — to unite with shared purpose and commitment.”


Hajj Ministry suspends 7 Umrah firms over transport violations

Updated 17 June 2025
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Hajj Ministry suspends 7 Umrah firms over transport violations

  • Ministry took regulatory measures against the violating companies, suspending their operations and liquidating their bank guarantees to cover alternative transport costs

JEDDAH: The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah recorded violations by seven Umrah companies due to deficiencies in providing transport services to pilgrims, as stipulated in their approved programs.

It is part of the ministry’s efforts to enhance service quality for pilgrims and visitors of the Prophet’s Mosque, ensuring compliance with contracts in line with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to improve the pilgrim experience at every stage of their journey.

The ministry took regulatory measures against the violating companies, suspending their operations and liquidating their bank guarantees to cover alternative transport costs for affected pilgrims, ensuring services meet approved standards.

It highlighted its commitment to protecting pilgrims’ rights and providing services of the highest quality and professionalism.

The ministry also highlighted its zero-tolerance approach to negligence or breach of contractual obligations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It called on all Umrah companies to strictly adhere to approved regulations and deliver services according to designated schedules, ensuring quality and the comfort of pilgrims and visitors during their stay in the Kingdom.