<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cabinet-approves-india-saudi-arabia-mous-in- smuggling-drug-trafficking-264902">Saudi Arabia</a> has released three people swept up in the latest wave of arrests in a crackdown on free expression, London-based Saudi rights group ALQST said on Thursday, but several more remain in detention.

Those freed are banker and publisher Suleiman al-Saikhan, former blogger Fuad al-Farhan, who later started a small business, and Bader al-Rashed, a journalist who had worked on one of the government's reform initiatives, ALQST tweeted.

Reuters was unable to reach them directly.

The men were among at least eight people taken from their homes earlier this month by plainclothes police. The reason was unclear as they are not considered frontline activists, though some had written previously about the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings.

The Saudi government communications office has not responded to a request for comment on the arrests.

ALQST is an independent non-governmental organisation that monitors and documents human rights violations it says occur in Saudi Arabia at the hands of the authorities.

Riyadh denies having political prisoners, but senior officials have said monitoring of activists, and potentially detaining them, is needed to maintain social stability.

As Saudi Arabia takes over the presidency of the Group of 20 countries, it is struggling to overcome intense international criticism over its human rights record, including last year's killing of journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../i-hope-news-is-real-brother-of-saudi-womens- rights-activist-on-her-being-contender-for-nobel-peace-prize-25398...">Jamal Khashoggi</a>, the arrest of women's rights activists and the devastating Yemen war.

A verdict in the trial of prominent Islamist preacher Salman al-Awdah, who was arrested more than two years ago on terrorism-related charges, was postponed on Wednesday for the fourth time, his son said on Twitter.

The public prosecutor is seeking the death penalty against Awdah, who was detained in September 2017 as a crackdown on dissent under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman gathered pace. Scores of intellectuals, activists, businessmen and government officials have been arrested.

Public protests, political parties and labour unions are banned in Saudi Arabia, where the media are controlled and criticism of the royal family can lead to prison.

Saudi Arabia has released three people swept up in the latest wave of arrests in a crackdown on free expression, London-based Saudi rights group ALQST said on Thursday, but several more remain in detention.

Saudi Arabia has released three people swept up in the latest wave of arrests in a crackdown on free expression, London-based Saudi rights group ALQST said on Thursday, but several more remain in detention. Those freed are banker and publisher Suleiman al-Saikhan, former blogger Fuad al-Farhan, who later started a small business, and Bader al-Rashed, a journalist who had worked on one of the government's reform initiatives, ALQST tweeted. Reuters was unable to reach them directly. The men were among at least eight people taken from their homes earlier this month by plainclothes police. The reason was unclear as they are not considered frontline activists, though some had written previously about the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings. The Saudi government communications office has not responded to a request for comment on the arrests. ALQST is an independent non-governmental organisation that monitors and documents human rights violations it says occur in Saudi Arabia at the hands of the authorities. Riyadh denies having political prisoners, but senior officials have said monitoring of activists, and potentially detaining them, is needed to maintain social stability. As Saudi Arabia takes over the presidency of the Group of 20 countries, it is struggling to overcome intense international criticism over its human rights record, including last year's killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, the arrest of women's rights activists and the devastating Yemen war. A verdict in the trial of prominent Islamist preacher Salman al-Awdah, who was arrested more than two years ago on terrorism-related charges, was postponed on Wednesday for the fourth time, his son said on Twitter. The public prosecutor is seeking the death penalty against Awdah, who was detained in September 2017 as a crackdown on dissent under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman gathered pace. Scores of intellectuals, activists, businessmen and government officials have been arrested. Public protests, political parties and labour unions are banned in Saudi Arabia, where the media are controlled and criticism of the royal family can lead to prison.

Three detained Saudi writers freed, others still held: Rights group

Dozens gathered for a candlelight vigil on Wednesday (October 02) outside the Saudi embassy in Washington D.C. to mark the first anniversary since the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Watch this video to know more.

Vigil for Saudi Journalist Jamal Khashoggi held on anniversary of his death

Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos joined activists in Istanbul Wednesday for a memorial service outside the Saudi consulate where journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-one-should-endure-what-you-did-says-jeff-bezos-to-khashoggis-fiancee-hatice-cengiz-253320">Jamal Khashoggi </a>was murdered a year ago.

International rights groups renewed calls for a full United Nations investigation into the killing.

Saudi journalist Khashoggi, a columnist for the Post, was strangled and dismembered at Saudi Arabia's consulate on October 2, 2018, when he went to obtain documents required for his marriage to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-thought-i-would-become-jamals-wife-instead-became-last-witness-before-a-murder-khashoggis-fiancee-hatice-cengiz-253300https://www.wionews.com/world/i-thought-i-would-become-jamals-wife-instead-became-last-witness-before-a-murder-khashoggis-fiancee-hatice-cengiz-253300">Turkish citizen Hatice Cengiz</a>.

She unveiled a memorial to Khashoggi directly in front of the consulate.&nbsp;

"After the worst year of my life I stand here broken but proud," she said in a speech.

"I still seek justice. I want to know what happened to his body. I want his friends to be released from jail. I want those in power to be held accountable for their actions."&nbsp;

Watch: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi

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Bezos gave a short speech directed at Cengiz, saying, "You need to know that you are in our hearts. We are here and you are not alone."

The case has sorely strained the ultra-conservative Saudi kingdom's ties with the West and tarnished the image of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The de facto ruler, who is widely known as MBS, had tried to project an image as a reformer.

"A year ago he had the great and good eating out of his hand," said David Hearst, chief editor of Middle East Eye, opening the memorial service.

"(But) Jamal's murder became a nightmare for his killer. In sealing Jamal's fate, Mohammad bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, sealed his own."

Eleven suspects have been put on trial in Riyadh over Khashoggi's murder, five of whom face the death penalty, but hearings are held behind closed doors and the names of the defendants have not been released.

Amnesty International's Andrew Gardner denounced the "sham" trial in Riyadh as "a mockery of justice".

'Credible evidence'

International human rights groups used the anniversary to renew calls for a UN-led investigation.&nbsp;

"Saudi authorities have obstructed meaningful accountability for Khashoggi's murder," Human Rights Watch said in a statement.

"If he's serious, the crown prince and his government should provide transparency into the ongoing trial and reveal everything they know about the planning, execution, and aftermath of Khashoggi's murder," HRW's Middle East director, Sarah Leah Whitson, said.

A June report by UN Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard said there was "credible evidence" linking MBS to the murder and an attempted cover up.&nbsp;

So far, however, no UN nation has heeded her call to initiate a full investigation.

"We will not stop until justice is served," Callamard said at the ceremony in Istanbul. &nbsp;

The Saudi crown prince has denied any involvement but tells PBS in a forthcoming documentary that he accepts responsibility for the killing, because it happened "under my watch".

The grisly details of Khashoggi's murder, which emerged largely from Turkish sources, sparked a global outcry and turned Prince Mohammad into a virtual pariah.

Dozens of top global executives boycotted his showcase business conference, the Future Investment Initiative, last year.

But the outrage has since dissipated and the Washington Post reported that global firms including Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup were planning to send top executives to this year's event later this month.

Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos joined activists in Istanbul Wednesday for a memorial service outside the Saudi consulate where journalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered a year ago.

Amazon founder and Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos joined activists in Istanbul Wednesday for a memorial service outside the Saudi consulate where journalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered a year ago. International rights groups renewed calls for a full United Nations investigation into the killing. Saudi journalist Khashoggi, a columnist for the Post, was strangled and dismembered at Saudi Arabia's consulate on October 2, 2018, when he went to obtain documents required for his marriage to Turkish citizen Hatice Cengiz. She unveiled a memorial to Khashoggi directly in front of the consulate. "After the worst year of my life I stand here broken but proud," she said in a speech. "I still seek justice. I want to know what happened to his body. I want his friends to be released from jail. I want those in power to be held accountable for their actions." Watch: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi × Bezos gave a short speech directed at Cengiz, saying, "You need to know that you are in our hearts. We are here and you are not alone." The case has sorely strained the ultra-conservative Saudi kingdom's ties with the West and tarnished the image of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The de facto ruler, who is widely known as MBS, had tried to project an image as a reformer. "A year ago he had the great and good eating out of his hand," said David Hearst, chief editor of Middle East Eye, opening the memorial service. "(But) Jamal's murder became a nightmare for his killer. In sealing Jamal's fate, Mohammad bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, sealed his own." Eleven suspects have been put on trial in Riyadh over Khashoggi's murder, five of whom face the death penalty, but hearings are held behind closed doors and the names of the defendants have not been released. Amnesty International's Andrew Gardner denounced the "sham" trial in Riyadh as "a mockery of justice". 'Credible evidence' International human rights groups used the anniversary to renew calls for a UN-led investigation. "Saudi authorities have obstructed meaningful accountability for Khashoggi's murder," Human Rights Watch said in a statement. "If he's serious, the crown prince and his government should provide transparency into the ongoing trial and reveal everything they know about the planning, execution, and aftermath of Khashoggi's murder," HRW's Middle East director, Sarah Leah Whitson, said. A June report by UN Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard said there was "credible evidence" linking MBS to the murder and an attempted cover up. So far, however, no UN nation has heeded her call to initiate a full investigation. "We will not stop until justice is served," Callamard said at the ceremony in Istanbul. The Saudi crown prince has denied any involvement but tells PBS in a forthcoming documentary that he accepts responsibility for the killing, because it happened "under my watch". The grisly details of Khashoggi's murder, which emerged largely from Turkish sources, sparked a global outcry and turned Prince Mohammad into a virtual pariah. Dozens of top global executives boycotted his showcase business conference, the Future Investment Initiative, last year. But the outrage has since dissipated and the Washington Post reported that global firms including Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup were planning to send top executives to this year's event later this month.

I want to know what happened to Khashoggi's body, says finacee Hatice Cengiz

Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos made a brief appearance at the vigil held to commemorate the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rights-groups-demand-justice-on-khashoggi-murder-anniversary-253303">murder of Saudi journalist</a>, Jamal Khashoggi.

Bezos, who is also the owner of The Washington Post where Khashoggi used to be a columnist, told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-thought-i-would-become-jamals-wife-instead-became-last-witness-before-a-murder-khashoggis-fiancee-hatice-cengiz-253300">Khashoggi's fiancee Hatice Cengiz</a> that her experience was "unimaginable".

"Hatice, no one should endure what you did. Right here where you are, you paced that street, for hours, pacing and waiting. And he never came out. It is unimaginable and you need to know that you are in our hearts. We are here and you are not alone," Bezos said.

Cengiz, who took the stage after Bezos, said she is still seeking an answer on the whereabouts of Khashoggi's body.

"Glad to see you all here and with you all, I still seek justice. I want to know what happened to his body. I want his friends to be released from jail. I want that those in power are held accountable for their actions," Cengiz said.

Gravitas: Khashoggi murder was an extrajudicial killing: UN special rapporteur

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Khashoggi, a critic of the crown prince, was murdered on October 2 at its consulate in Istanbul. His dismembered body has never been found. A global outcry ensued and led to US Treasury sanctions on 17 Saudi individuals and a Senate resolution blaming Prince Mohammed.

Saudi officials have denied suspicions in the CIA that the crown prince, known as MbS, ordered the killing.

Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos made a brief appearance at the vigil held to commemorate the murder of Saudi journalist, Jamal Khashoggi. Bezos, who is also the owner of The Washington Post where Khashoggi used to be a columnist, told Khashoggi's fiancee Hatice Cengiz that her experience was "unimaginable".

Amazon's founder Jeff Bezos made a brief appearance at the vigil held to commemorate the murder of Saudi journalist, Jamal Khashoggi. Bezos, who is also the owner of The Washington Post where Khashoggi used to be a columnist, told Khashoggi's fiancee Hatice Cengiz that her experience was "unimaginable". "Hatice, no one should endure what you did. Right here where you are, you paced that street, for hours, pacing and waiting. And he never came out. It is unimaginable and you need to know that you are in our hearts. We are here and you are not alone," Bezos said. Cengiz, who took the stage after Bezos, said she is still seeking an answer on the whereabouts of Khashoggi's body. "Glad to see you all here and with you all, I still seek justice. I want to know what happened to his body. I want his friends to be released from jail. I want that those in power are held accountable for their actions," Cengiz said. Gravitas: Khashoggi murder was an extrajudicial killing: UN special rapporteur Khashoggi, a critic of the crown prince, was murdered on October 2 at its consulate in Istanbul. His dismembered body has never been found. A global outcry ensued and led to US Treasury sanctions on 17 Saudi individuals and a Senate resolution blaming Prince Mohammed. Saudi officials have denied suspicions in the CIA that the crown prince, known as MbS, ordered the killing.

No one should endure what you did: Jeff Bezos to Khashoggi's fiancee

One year after the murder of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-prince-says-khashoggi-murder-happened-under-my-watch-us-tv-252208">Saudi Journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a>, his fiancee Hatice Cengiz remembered the day her life changed.

Today, Cengiz will mark the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-details-on-khashoggis-murder-should-be-shared-by-saudi-erdogan-231599">murder's first anniversary</a> outside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul together with activists and UN Special rapporteur Agnes Callamard.

Cengiz said that while she was waiting outside for him she had wedding plans on her mind.

"There and then I thought I would become Jamal's wife. Instead, I became the last witness before a murder. We were about to set a date for the wedding that day, that was what we had planned. There was no reason for us to wait, because it was all done, our house was done, our furniture was about to arrive the week after. This is what was in my mind while I waited until the very last second until I got worried and started to get anxious about why he didn't come back out and started acting. Those were the only things in my mind, there was nothing else," she told Swedish broadcaster TV4 in an interview on September 30.

"After a few days, many details came out about what happened, quite horrendous details about injections and how the murder happened and what was said inside. How could you protect yourself from all those details coming out in the media?'' Cengiz further said.

"As a matter of fact, Jamal had been trying to draw the world's attention to something when he was alive and he managed to do it with his death," Cengiz added.

Watch Video: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi

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Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018, where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was reportedly dismembered and removed from the building, and his remains have not been found.

A global outcry ensued and led to US Treasury sanctions on 17 Saudi individuals and a Senate resolution blaming Prince Mohammed bin Salman, of whom Khashoggi was a critic.

The Saudi crown prince told CBS program "60 Minutes" that as de facto Saudi leader he ultimately bore "full responsibility" for the killing a year ago, but he denied ordering it.

Cengiz said that many questions about the murder remained unanswered.

One year after the murder of Saudi Journalist Jamal Khashoggi, his fiancee Hatice Cengiz remembered the day her life changed. Today, Cengiz will mark the murder's first anniversary outside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul together with activists and UN Special rapporteur Agnes Callamard.

One year after the murder of Saudi Journalist Jamal Khashoggi, his fiancee Hatice Cengiz remembered the day her life changed. Today, Cengiz will mark the murder's first anniversary outside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul together with activists and UN Special rapporteur Agnes Callamard. Cengiz said that while she was waiting outside for him she had wedding plans on her mind. "There and then I thought I would become Jamal's wife. Instead, I became the last witness before a murder. We were about to set a date for the wedding that day, that was what we had planned. There was no reason for us to wait, because it was all done, our house was done, our furniture was about to arrive the week after. This is what was in my mind while I waited until the very last second until I got worried and started to get anxious about why he didn't come back out and started acting. Those were the only things in my mind, there was nothing else," she told Swedish broadcaster TV4 in an interview on September 30. "After a few days, many details came out about what happened, quite horrendous details about injections and how the murder happened and what was said inside. How could you protect yourself from all those details coming out in the media?'' Cengiz further said. "As a matter of fact, Jamal had been trying to draw the world's attention to something when he was alive and he managed to do it with his death," Cengiz added. Watch Video: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018, where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was reportedly dismembered and removed from the building, and his remains have not been found. A global outcry ensued and led to US Treasury sanctions on 17 Saudi individuals and a Senate resolution blaming Prince Mohammed bin Salman, of whom Khashoggi was a critic. The Saudi crown prince told CBS program "60 Minutes" that as de facto Saudi leader he ultimately bore "full responsibility" for the killing a year ago, but he denied ordering it. Cengiz said that many questions about the murder remained unanswered.

I thought I would become his wife, instead became last witness to a murder: Khashoggi's fiancee Hatice Cengiz

Saudi operatives suspected of killing the journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">Jamal Khashoggi </a>at the country's Istanbul consulate were heard joking and talking about dismemberment before his arrival, according to secret tapes heard by UN investigators.

Helena Kennedy, a British lawyer assisting the UN probe into <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-son-defends-saudi-against-critics-exploiting-murder-253041">Khashoggi's death</a>, said recordings she had heard from inside the kingdom's mission in Turkey referred to the Saudi critic as a "sacrificial animal."

"There was a discussion about 'will the body and the hips fit into a bag this way'?", she told BBC television's Panorama documentary programme broadcast on Monday night.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a self-styled moderniser, was feted by global leaders and business titans before the gruesome murder on October 2 last year.

But the global fallout from the killing rendered him a pariah.

Kennedy said Turkish bugs in the Saudi consulate picked up a forensic pathologist suspected of cutting up Khashoggi's body as saying, "I often play music when I'm cutting cadavers. Sometimes I have a coffee and a cigar at hand."&nbsp;

The pathologist also says, "'It's the first time in my life that I've had to cut pieces on the ground -- even if you are a butcher and want to cut, he hangs the animal up to do so'," she added.

"They speak about waiting for Khashoggi to arrive and they say, 'Has the sacrificial animal arrived?'. You could hear them laughing, it's a chilling business."

Turkey handed over 45 minutes of recordings to the United Nations in order for them to investigate the incident.

Khashoggi visited the consulate to secure the divorce papers needed to marry his fiancee but did not make it out alive.

"There's a point where you can hear Khashoggi moving from a man who is being a confident person, towards a sense of fear, a sense of rising anxiety, rising terror and then knowing something fatal is going to happen," said Kennedy.

UN special rapporteur Agnes Callamard, who also heard the tapes, said Khashoggi asked his suspected killers, "Are you going to give me an injection?", to which they replied 'yes'."

She added: "The sound heard after that point indicates that he is being suffocated, probably with a plastic bag over his head."

Shortly afterwards, Kennedy said the recording picked up someone saying, "he's a dog, put this on his head, wrap it, wrap it."&nbsp;

"One can only assume that they had removed his head," she explained.

Saudi operatives suspected of killing the journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the country's Istanbul consulate were heard joking and talking about dismemberment before his arrival, according to secret tapes heard by UN investigators.

Saudi operatives suspected of killing the journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the country's Istanbul consulate were heard joking and talking about dismemberment before his arrival, according to secret tapes heard by UN investigators. Helena Kennedy, a British lawyer assisting the UN probe into Khashoggi's death, said recordings she had heard from inside the kingdom's mission in Turkey referred to the Saudi critic as a "sacrificial animal." "There was a discussion about 'will the body and the hips fit into a bag this way'?", she told BBC television's Panorama documentary programme broadcast on Monday night. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a self-styled moderniser, was feted by global leaders and business titans before the gruesome murder on October 2 last year. But the global fallout from the killing rendered him a pariah. Kennedy said Turkish bugs in the Saudi consulate picked up a forensic pathologist suspected of cutting up Khashoggi's body as saying, "I often play music when I'm cutting cadavers. Sometimes I have a coffee and a cigar at hand." The pathologist also says, "'It's the first time in my life that I've had to cut pieces on the ground -- even if you are a butcher and want to cut, he hangs the animal up to do so'," she added. "They speak about waiting for Khashoggi to arrive and they say, 'Has the sacrificial animal arrived?'. You could hear them laughing, it's a chilling business." Turkey handed over 45 minutes of recordings to the United Nations in order for them to investigate the incident. Khashoggi visited the consulate to secure the divorce papers needed to marry his fiancee but did not make it out alive. "There's a point where you can hear Khashoggi moving from a man who is being a confident person, towards a sense of fear, a sense of rising anxiety, rising terror and then knowing something fatal is going to happen," said Kennedy. UN special rapporteur Agnes Callamard, who also heard the tapes, said Khashoggi asked his suspected killers, "Are you going to give me an injection?", to which they replied 'yes'." She added: "The sound heard after that point indicates that he is being suffocated, probably with a plastic bag over his head." Shortly afterwards, Kennedy said the recording picked up someone saying, "he's a dog, put this on his head, wrap it, wrap it." "One can only assume that they had removed his head," she explained.

Khashoggi suspects made 'chilling' jokes before killing: Reports

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mbs-denies-killing-journalist-jamal-khashoggi-252896">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman</a> on Monday denied his involvement in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a>.

Speaking to the CBS programme "60 Minutes," Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, however, added that he ultimately bears "full responsibility" as the leader of his country.

Days before the anniversary of the killing of Khashoggi in a Saudi consulate in Turkey, the crown prince said, "Absolutely not," when asked if he ordered the murder.

"Since it was committed by individuals working for the Saudi government. This was a mistake. And I must take all actions to avoid such a thing in the future," the crown prince added.

Asked about how the killing could have happened without him knowing about it," the crown prince said, "Some think that I should know what 3 million people working for the Saudi government do daily. It's impossible that the 3 million would send their daily reports to the leader or the second-highest person in the Saudi government."

Watch: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi

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He insisted that "the investigations are being carried out, and once charges are proven against someone, regardless of their rank, it will be taken to court, no exception made."

Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was dismembered and removed from the building, according to reports, and his remains have not been found.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday denied his involvement in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Speaking to the CBS programme "60 Minutes," Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, however, added that he ultimately bears "full responsibility" as the leader of his country.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday denied his involvement in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Speaking to the CBS programme "60 Minutes," Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, however, added that he ultimately bears "full responsibility" as the leader of his country. Days before the anniversary of the killing of Khashoggi in a Saudi consulate in Turkey, the crown prince said, "Absolutely not," when asked if he ordered the murder. "Since it was committed by individuals working for the Saudi government. This was a mistake. And I must take all actions to avoid such a thing in the future," the crown prince added. Asked about how the killing could have happened without him knowing about it," the crown prince said, "Some think that I should know what 3 million people working for the Saudi government do daily. It's impossible that the 3 million would send their daily reports to the leader or the second-highest person in the Saudi government." Watch: MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi × He insisted that "the investigations are being carried out, and once charges are proven against someone, regardless of their rank, it will be taken to court, no exception made." Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was dismembered and removed from the building, according to reports, and his remains have not been found. (With inputs from Reuters)

'Absolutely not': Saudi Crown Prince Salman denies involvement in Khashoggi murder

Crown prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, denied in an interview broadcast on Sunday that he ordered the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

MBS denies killing journalist Jamal Khashoggi

Saudi Arabia is attempting a comeback on the global stage one year after journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder, but the crisis has weakened it and undermined its de facto leader's ambitious reforms, analysts say.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a self-styled moderniser shaking up the conservative petro-state, was feted by global leaders and business titans before the gruesome murder in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate on October 2 last year.

But the global fallout over the killing rendered the heir to the Arab world's most powerful throne a pariah, casting a shadow on his reforms, putting the kingdom's human rights record under the microscope and testing old alliances with Western powers.

The prince has since sought to shore up his tarnished reputation, launching slick PR campaigns to win back foreign investment while accelerating what analysts call the kingdom's "eastward tilt" towards less critical allies such as China and India.

But that has only had limited success.

"The spectre of Jamal Khashoggi hangs over the kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Bruce Riedel, a former Central Intelligence Agency officer and author of a book on Saudi Arabia entitled "Kings and Presidents".

"The murdered journalist and commentator has not been forgotten, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hoped."

The crown prince tells PBS in a forthcoming documentary that he accepted responsibility for the killing, because it happened "under my watch" -- but he denied having prior knowledge.

'Globally isolated'

The CIA has reportedly concluded that the prince, who controls all major levers of power in the Saudi government, likely ordered the killing.

A report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard also said there was "credible evidence" linking him to the murder and an attempted cover up.

Her revelations, including audio transcripts showing the Saudi agents involved referring to Khashoggi as a "sacrificial animal", have piled pressure on Western allies to suspend arms sales to the kingdom.

That has come as a blow to Saudi Arabia amid heightened tensions with arch-rival Iran following major September 14 attacks on the heart of the kingdom's oil infrastructure, which Washington has blamed on Iran.

The US, a key ally of Riyadh, has announced the deployment of 200 troops as well as Patriot missiles to Saudi Arabia to bolster its defences in the wake of the attacks.

President Donald Trump has emphasised Saudi Arabia's importance as a buyer of American arms and a bulwark against common foe Iran, but American lawmakers appear in no mood to give the prince a free pass over the murder.&nbsp;

"To a degree, Khashoggi's murder has left Saudi Arabia globally isolated," said Quentin de Pimodan, a Saudi expert at the Greece-based Research Institute for European and American Studies.

"On the surface Trump has offered support to Riyadh but America insists it is not as reliant on Saudi oil as before," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"Saudi is on its own in dealing with the threat of Iran and the conflict in neighbouring Yemen."

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has cited Khashoggi's murder in opposing a potential strike on Iran in retaliation to the attacks on Saudi facilities.

"I don't see any responsibility for us to protect and defend Saudi Arabia," she told American radio network NPR.

'Murder stain'

The murder has increased the reputational risk for Western firms doing business in Saudi Arabia, even as global bankers and executives have once again been seen attending glitzy investor conferences.

The scandal also appears to have impeded Prince Mohammed's economic reforms, which seek to reduce the kingdom's reliance on oil revenues and boost private sector investment.

"Before the murder, Saudi Arabia was stepping on the accelerator of foreign business partnerships," said Ellen Wald, author of the book "Saudi Inc.".

"But the Khashoggi murder was like hitting a hill. The momentum has slowed even if progress is still in the right direction."

On Friday, Saudi Arabia announced the launch of tourism visas as part of its push to diversify the economy -- but that was an announcement that many had expected more than a year ago.

Also mired in delays is the planned stock market listing of state oil giant Aramco, a cornerstone of Prince Mohammed's reform agenda that was initially scheduled for 2018.

Despite all this, the murder has not threatened to unseat the prince.

Instead, he has tightened his grip on military and security agencies and launched a crackdown on political rivals as well as conservative clerics and women activists.

"Saudi has been hiring Western social media influencers to promote the kingdom and improve its reputation since Khashoggi's murder," de Pimodan said.

"But the murder stain will be hard to wash off."

Saudi Arabia is attempting a comeback on the global stage one year after journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder, but the crisis has weakened it and undermined its de facto leader's ambitious reforms, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia is attempting a comeback on the global stage one year after journalist Jamal Khashoggi's murder, but the crisis has weakened it and undermined its de facto leader's ambitious reforms, analysts say. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a self-styled moderniser shaking up the conservative petro-state, was feted by global leaders and business titans before the gruesome murder in Saudi Arabia's Istanbul consulate on October 2 last year. But the global fallout over the killing rendered the heir to the Arab world's most powerful throne a pariah, casting a shadow on his reforms, putting the kingdom's human rights record under the microscope and testing old alliances with Western powers. The prince has since sought to shore up his tarnished reputation, launching slick PR campaigns to win back foreign investment while accelerating what analysts call the kingdom's "eastward tilt" towards less critical allies such as China and India. But that has only had limited success. "The spectre of Jamal Khashoggi hangs over the kingdom of Saudi Arabia," said Bruce Riedel, a former Central Intelligence Agency officer and author of a book on Saudi Arabia entitled "Kings and Presidents". "The murdered journalist and commentator has not been forgotten, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hoped." The crown prince tells PBS in a forthcoming documentary that he accepted responsibility for the killing, because it happened "under my watch" -- but he denied having prior knowledge. 'Globally isolated' The CIA has reportedly concluded that the prince, who controls all major levers of power in the Saudi government, likely ordered the killing. A report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard also said there was "credible evidence" linking him to the murder and an attempted cover up. Her revelations, including audio transcripts showing the Saudi agents involved referring to Khashoggi as a "sacrificial animal", have piled pressure on Western allies to suspend arms sales to the kingdom. That has come as a blow to Saudi Arabia amid heightened tensions with arch-rival Iran following major September 14 attacks on the heart of the kingdom's oil infrastructure, which Washington has blamed on Iran. The US, a key ally of Riyadh, has announced the deployment of 200 troops as well as Patriot missiles to Saudi Arabia to bolster its defences in the wake of the attacks. President Donald Trump has emphasised Saudi Arabia's importance as a buyer of American arms and a bulwark against common foe Iran, but American lawmakers appear in no mood to give the prince a free pass over the murder. "To a degree, Khashoggi's murder has left Saudi Arabia globally isolated," said Quentin de Pimodan, a Saudi expert at the Greece-based Research Institute for European and American Studies. "On the surface Trump has offered support to Riyadh but America insists it is not as reliant on Saudi oil as before," he told AFP. "Saudi is on its own in dealing with the threat of Iran and the conflict in neighbouring Yemen." US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has cited Khashoggi's murder in opposing a potential strike on Iran in retaliation to the attacks on Saudi facilities. "I don't see any responsibility for us to protect and defend Saudi Arabia," she told American radio network NPR. 'Murder stain' The murder has increased the reputational risk for Western firms doing business in Saudi Arabia, even as global bankers and executives have once again been seen attending glitzy investor conferences. The scandal also appears to have impeded Prince Mohammed's economic reforms, which seek to reduce the kingdom's reliance on oil revenues and boost private sector investment. "Before the murder, Saudi Arabia was stepping on the accelerator of foreign business partnerships," said Ellen Wald, author of the book "Saudi Inc.". "But the Khashoggi murder was like hitting a hill. The momentum has slowed even if progress is still in the right direction." On Friday, Saudi Arabia announced the launch of tourism visas as part of its push to diversify the economy -- but that was an announcement that many had expected more than a year ago. Also mired in delays is the planned stock market listing of state oil giant Aramco, a cornerstone of Prince Mohammed's reform agenda that was initially scheduled for 2018. Despite all this, the murder has not threatened to unseat the prince. Instead, he has tightened his grip on military and security agencies and launched a crackdown on political rivals as well as conservative clerics and women activists. "Saudi has been hiring Western social media influencers to promote the kingdom and improve its reputation since Khashoggi's murder," de Pimodan said. "But the murder stain will be hard to wash off."

One year on, Saudi struggles to turn page on Khashoggi murder

Saudi Arabia's crown prince appeared to accept responsibility for the killing of journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-post-publishes-jamal-khashoggis-last-piece-172051">Jamal Khashoggi</a>, telling US television a few months later that it "happened under my watch," but denying any prior knowledge.

"It happened under my watch," Prince Mohammed bin Salman told a reporter in December 2018, according to quotes released ahead of a new PBS documentary to be aired next week.

"I get all the responsibility, because it happened under my watch," the heir to the Gulf kingdom's throne is quoted as saying, following the October 2 murder.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">Jamal Khashoggi's killing: A murder that shook 2018</a>

Prince Mohammed, the kingdom's de facto ruler, has come under huge <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-fiance-calls-for-international-probe-in-killing-230470">international pressure</a> after the US-based writer was killed and dismembered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

Khashoggi's body was never found.

Watch: Khashoggi murder was an extrajudicial killing: UN special rapporteur

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Asked during a conversation at a car race track outside Riyadh in December 2018 why he did not know about the murder, the prince replied, "We have 20 million people. We have three million government employees."

And pressed on how a team could take one of the royal planes to Istanbul to carry out the killing, he said,&nbsp;"I have officials, ministers to follow things, and they're responsible, they have the authority to do that."

Riyadh has repeatedly denied that Prince Mohammed was behind the murder of Khashoggi -- a royal family insider turned critic -- who was killed in what Saudi authorities have described as a rogue operation.

And in the PBS comments, Prince Mohammed -- better known by his initials MBS -- insisted the killing was executed without his knowledge.

A report by a UN human rights expert, who conducted an independent probe, said there was "credible evidence" linking the crown prince to the murder and an attempted cover-up.&nbsp;

The CIA has also reportedly said the killing was likely ordered by Prince Mohammed.&nbsp;

But Saudi prosecutors have absolved the prince and said around two dozen people implicated in the murder are in custody, with death penalties sought against five men.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince appeared to accept responsibility for the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, telling US television a few months later that it "happened under my watch," but denying any prior knowledge.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince appeared to accept responsibility for the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, telling US television a few months later that it "happened under my watch," but denying any prior knowledge. "It happened under my watch," Prince Mohammed bin Salman told a reporter in December 2018, according to quotes released ahead of a new PBS documentary to be aired next week. "I get all the responsibility, because it happened under my watch," the heir to the Gulf kingdom's throne is quoted as saying, following the October 2 murder. Also read: Jamal Khashoggi's killing: A murder that shook 2018 Prince Mohammed, the kingdom's de facto ruler, has come under huge international pressure after the US-based writer was killed and dismembered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Khashoggi's body was never found. Watch: Khashoggi murder was an extrajudicial killing: UN special rapporteur × Asked during a conversation at a car race track outside Riyadh in December 2018 why he did not know about the murder, the prince replied, "We have 20 million people. We have three million government employees." And pressed on how a team could take one of the royal planes to Istanbul to carry out the killing, he said, "I have officials, ministers to follow things, and they're responsible, they have the authority to do that." Riyadh has repeatedly denied that Prince Mohammed was behind the murder of Khashoggi -- a royal family insider turned critic -- who was killed in what Saudi authorities have described as a rogue operation. And in the PBS comments, Prince Mohammed -- better known by his initials MBS -- insisted the killing was executed without his knowledge. A report by a UN human rights expert, who conducted an independent probe, said there was "credible evidence" linking the crown prince to the murder and an attempted cover-up. The CIA has also reportedly said the killing was likely ordered by Prince Mohammed. But Saudi prosecutors have absolved the prince and said around two dozen people implicated in the murder are in custody, with death penalties sought against five men.

Saudi prince says Khashoggi murder 'happened under my watch': US TV

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-rejects-saudi-weapons-sales-trump-to-veto-236775">US House of Representatives</a> on Wednesday voted to block emergency arms sales to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-saudi-arabia-cuba-in-human-trafficking-blacklist-china-myanmar-remain-on-list-229035">Saudi Arabia</a>, United Arab Emirates and Jordan.

The three resolutions which were approved by the US House were already passed by the Senate. This means that the measures will now go to US President Donald Trump, where he is expected to veto them.

The chamber approved two of the resolutions with 238-190. The third one was approved with 237-190 votes, according to The Hill.

While the US Congress cannot override Trump`s veto, it reflects the differing takes on Saudi Arabia which are held by the legislature and the executive in the United States.

The US legislature has previously been critical of Riyadh, especially after journalist Jamal Khashoggi`s killing and the mounting death toll in Yemen.

Trump had in May bypassed the Congress to fast-track the sale of weapons worth USD eight billion to Saudi Arabia and the other two Gulf countries, citing escalating tensions with Iran in the region.&nbsp;

The weapons sale bypassed laws which give the US Congress the power to review major arms sale, according to Al Jazeera.

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday voted to block emergency arms sales to Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Jordan. The three resolutions which were approved by the US House were already passed by the Senate.

The US House of Representatives on Wednesday voted to block emergency arms sales to Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Jordan. The three resolutions which were approved by the US House were already passed by the Senate. This means that the measures will now go to US President Donald Trump, where he is expected to veto them. The chamber approved two of the resolutions with 238-190. The third one was approved with 237-190 votes, according to The Hill. While the US Congress cannot override Trump`s veto, it reflects the differing takes on Saudi Arabia which are held by the legislature and the executive in the United States. The US legislature has previously been critical of Riyadh, especially after journalist Jamal Khashoggi`s killing and the mounting death toll in Yemen. Trump had in May bypassed the Congress to fast-track the sale of weapons worth USD eight billion to Saudi Arabia and the other two Gulf countries, citing escalating tensions with Iran in the region. The weapons sale bypassed laws which give the US Congress the power to review major arms sale, according to Al Jazeera.

US House votes to block 'emergency' arms sale to Saudi Arabia

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said that Saudi Arabia should share all facts and details about the murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

However, Erdogan said that while Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) had promised him during a recent telephonic conversation, he contended that "nothing has been done".

"It is first of all MbS who needs to shed light on this because he promised me during our phone call but until now nothing had been done," he was quoted by CNN as saying while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Osaka.

Erdogan insisted that the Saudi Crown Prince had to shed light on the perpetrators of Khashoggi`s killing.

"There are certain suspects that we know of and they need to be tried in Istanbul because that`s where the crime was committed," he said.

Erdogan has repeatedly charged at the Saudi Crown Prince after Khashoggi was murdered when he had entered the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul in October last year.

Riyadh initially denied any knowledge of the incident, but Saudi officials later claimed that many among the group, who murdered the former Washington Post columnist, belonged to the Crown Prince`s inner circle.

United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, Agnes Callamard, who recently presented her special report on Khashoggi`s murder, has called for an international investigation into the murder, adding that the Saudi probe into the matter has failed to examine who may have ordered it.

The independent investigation released earlier this month held Saudi Arabia responsible for the scribe`s "extrajudicial killing."&nbsp;

The report revealed that the late Saudi Arabian journalist was the victim of a "deliberate and premeditated execution."

Saudi Arabia has already dismissed the UN`s report.Saudi Arabia began the trial for 11 suspects in the murder case earlier this year, after rejecting Erdogan`s call for the suspected Saudi nationals to be extradited to Turkey to face trial in the nation where the crime took place.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said that Saudi Arabia should share all facts and details about the murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said that Saudi Arabia should share all facts and details about the murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi. However, Erdogan said that while Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) had promised him during a recent telephonic conversation, he contended that "nothing has been done". "It is first of all MbS who needs to shed light on this because he promised me during our phone call but until now nothing had been done," he was quoted by CNN as saying while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Osaka. Erdogan insisted that the Saudi Crown Prince had to shed light on the perpetrators of Khashoggi`s killing. "There are certain suspects that we know of and they need to be tried in Istanbul because that`s where the crime was committed," he said. Erdogan has repeatedly charged at the Saudi Crown Prince after Khashoggi was murdered when he had entered the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul in October last year. Riyadh initially denied any knowledge of the incident, but Saudi officials later claimed that many among the group, who murdered the former Washington Post columnist, belonged to the Crown Prince`s inner circle. United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, Agnes Callamard, who recently presented her special report on Khashoggi`s murder, has called for an international investigation into the murder, adding that the Saudi probe into the matter has failed to examine who may have ordered it. The independent investigation released earlier this month held Saudi Arabia responsible for the scribe`s "extrajudicial killing." The report revealed that the late Saudi Arabian journalist was the victim of a "deliberate and premeditated execution." Saudi Arabia has already dismissed the UN`s report.Saudi Arabia began the trial for 11 suspects in the murder case earlier this year, after rejecting Erdogan`s call for the suspected Saudi nationals to be extradited to Turkey to face trial in the nation where the crime took place.

All details on Khashoggi's murder should be shared by Saudi: Erdogan

US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

"You have done a spectacular job," Trump told the powerful crown prince, referring to him as "a friend of mine".

The young royal has faced international pressure after US-based dissident Saudi writer Jamal Khashoggi was murdered in the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul last year.

But Trump ignored questions from the media about whether he would raise the journalist's murder during his working breakfast with the prince.

Riyadh has hit back against claims that Prince Mohammed bears responsibility in the murder of Khashoggi, who was killed and dismembered in what Saudi authorities have described as a rogue operation.

A UN expert report has said that the "execution of Mr Khashoggi was the responsibility of the state of Saudi Arabia", and that Prince Mohammed must have been aware of attempts to cover up the crime after the fact, including a forensic cleaning of the consulate.

The report urged a formal criminal investigation into the case.

But Saudi prosecutors say all those to blame are already on trial, citing proceedings against 11 unnamed individuals in the kingdom.

Five of those face the death penalty in the trial, which has been held secretly, with only a handful of diplomats allowed to attend.

US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit. "You have done a spectacular job," Trump told the powerful crown prince, referring to him as "a friend of mine". The young royal has faced international pressure after US-based dissident Saudi writer Jamal Khashoggi was murdered in the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul last year. But Trump ignored questions from the media about whether he would raise the journalist's murder during his working breakfast with the prince. Riyadh has hit back against claims that Prince Mohammed bears responsibility in the murder of Khashoggi, who was killed and dismembered in what Saudi authorities have described as a rogue operation. A UN expert report has said that the "execution of Mr Khashoggi was the responsibility of the state of Saudi Arabia", and that Prince Mohammed must have been aware of attempts to cover up the crime after the fact, including a forensic cleaning of the consulate. The report urged a formal criminal investigation into the case. But Saudi prosecutors say all those to blame are already on trial, citing proceedings against 11 unnamed individuals in the kingdom. Five of those face the death penalty in the trial, which has been held secretly, with only a handful of diplomats allowed to attend.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doing 'spectacular job': Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said he is "extremely angry" about the murder of a Saudi journalist but that nobody had "pointed a finger" at the Kingdom's crown prince.&nbsp;

"I am extremely angry and unhappy" about the murder of Jamal Khashoggi at Saudi's consulate in Istanbul, Trump said.

But "nobody has directly pointed a finger" at Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the US president added when asked about whether he raised the issue during a meeting with the royal.

Earlier in the day, Trump praised Saudi Crown Prince saying he was doing a "spectacular job" while referring to him as "a friend of mine".

The young royal has faced international pressure after US-based dissident Khashoggi was murdered in the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul last year.

A UN expert report released earlier had said that the "execution of Mr Khashoggi was the responsibility of the state of Saudi Arabia", and that Prince Mohammed must have been aware of attempts to cover up the crime after the fact, including a forensic cleaning of the consulate.

The report urged a formal criminal investigation into the case.

But Saudi prosecutors say all those to blame are already on trial, citing proceedings against 11 unnamed individuals in the kingdom.

Five of those face the death penalty in the trial, which has been held secretly, with only a handful of diplomats allowed to attend.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said he is "extremely angry" about the murder of a Saudi journalist but that nobody had "pointed a finger" at the Kingdom's crown prince.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday said he is "extremely angry" about the murder of a Saudi journalist but that nobody had "pointed a finger" at the Kingdom's crown prince. "I am extremely angry and unhappy" about the murder of Jamal Khashoggi at Saudi's consulate in Istanbul, Trump said. But "nobody has directly pointed a finger" at Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the US president added when asked about whether he raised the issue during a meeting with the royal. Earlier in the day, Trump praised Saudi Crown Prince saying he was doing a "spectacular job" while referring to him as "a friend of mine". The young royal has faced international pressure after US-based dissident Khashoggi was murdered in the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul last year. A UN expert report released earlier had said that the "execution of Mr Khashoggi was the responsibility of the state of Saudi Arabia", and that Prince Mohammed must have been aware of attempts to cover up the crime after the fact, including a forensic cleaning of the consulate. The report urged a formal criminal investigation into the case. But Saudi prosecutors say all those to blame are already on trial, citing proceedings against 11 unnamed individuals in the kingdom. Five of those face the death penalty in the trial, which has been held secretly, with only a handful of diplomats allowed to attend.

Donald Trump 'angry' about Khashoggi murder, but says 'no one' blames Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

UN Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard Presents Report On Journalist Jamal Khashoggi's Murder UN report says that Khashoggi's murder was clearly endorsed by senior officials in the Saudi Kingdom. The report also says 15-member hit squad was involved and the state help them carry out the murder. This is the clearest indication yet of Saudi's involvement in the murder. Palki brings us the highlights of the 100-page report released by the UN

Gravitas: Khashoggi murder was an extrajudicial killing: UN special rapporteur

Saudi dissident, Jamal Khashoggi's fiancee&nbsp;called for an international investigation on the journalist's killing on Tuesday after United Nations released a&nbsp;report on the case in which it held Saudi Arabia responsible for his'&nbsp;killing.&nbsp;

After a six-month investigation, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evidence-suggests-saudi-crown-prince-is-liable-for-khashoggi-murder-un-expert-228685">100-page report by the UN special rapporteur </a>on extrajudicial executions was released on Monday which held Saudi Arabi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and other Saudi officials liable for the murder.

In the UN report, Agnes Callamard accused Saudi Arabia of a "deliberate, premeditated execution" but made no conclusion as to the guilt.

Speaking at an event in Switzerland's Geneva, Hatice Cengiz said the Saudi government had eliminated evidence, hence rendering its investigation invalid.

"In this matter, one of the points&nbsp;indicated by the report is that there are evidence that Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabian administration seem to have eliminated some pieces of evidence during the investigation process," &nbsp;she said.

"Within that scope, the investigation&nbsp;in Saudi Arabia is not legitimate anymore," Cengiz&nbsp;said, adding, "So the necessity for an international investigation about this murder arises again because there are findings in the report that Saudi Arabia had attempted to eliminate or get rid of the pieces of evidence by Saudi Arabia."

Agnes Callamard who was also speaking at the event&nbsp;said, the killing violated key principles of international relations making it an "international crime," hence the UN and the international community must be able to hold a fair investigation and trial.

"I don't think the world can afford to turn a blind eye or to turn the page on a killing such that of Mr Khashoggi that had taken place in a foreign country, it violated key principles of international relations."

"It is in my view an international crime. For that reason, the international community, the United Nations must be able to investigate, analyse and report to it fairly, honestly and be prepared to take the actions in response to it."

Meanwhile, Saudi foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir rejected the UN report, and cast doubt on its credibility, saying it contained "clear contradictions and baseless allegations".

Jubeir also rejected any attempt to influence the trial or remove it from the Saudi judicial process.

Jamal Khashoggi, who worked as a journalist for The Washington Post, was killed in October last year in&nbsp;Saudi Arabia's consulate in Turkey. A critic of a Saudi prince, Mohammed Bin Salman, Khashoggi was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi dissident, Jamal Khashoggi's fiancee called for an international investigation on the journalist's killing on Tuesday after United Nations released a report on the case in which it held Saudi Arabia responsible for his' killing.

Saudi dissident, Jamal Khashoggi's fiancee called for an international investigation on the journalist's killing on Tuesday after United Nations released a report on the case in which it held Saudi Arabia responsible for his' killing. After a six-month investigation, the 100-page report by the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions was released on Monday which held Saudi Arabi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and other Saudi officials liable for the murder. In the UN report, Agnes Callamard accused Saudi Arabia of a "deliberate, premeditated execution" but made no conclusion as to the guilt. Speaking at an event in Switzerland's Geneva, Hatice Cengiz said the Saudi government had eliminated evidence, hence rendering its investigation invalid. "In this matter, one of the points indicated by the report is that there are evidence that Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabian administration seem to have eliminated some pieces of evidence during the investigation process," she said. "Within that scope, the investigation in Saudi Arabia is not legitimate anymore," Cengiz said, adding, "So the necessity for an international investigation about this murder arises again because there are findings in the report that Saudi Arabia had attempted to eliminate or get rid of the pieces of evidence by Saudi Arabia." Agnes Callamard who was also speaking at the event said, the killing violated key principles of international relations making it an "international crime," hence the UN and the international community must be able to hold a fair investigation and trial. "I don't think the world can afford to turn a blind eye or to turn the page on a killing such that of Mr Khashoggi that had taken place in a foreign country, it violated key principles of international relations." "It is in my view an international crime. For that reason, the international community, the United Nations must be able to investigate, analyse and report to it fairly, honestly and be prepared to take the actions in response to it." Meanwhile, Saudi foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir rejected the UN report, and cast doubt on its credibility, saying it contained "clear contradictions and baseless allegations". Jubeir also rejected any attempt to influence the trial or remove it from the Saudi judicial process. Jamal Khashoggi, who worked as a journalist for The Washington Post, was killed in October last year in Saudi Arabia's consulate in Turkey. A critic of a Saudi prince, Mohammed Bin Salman, Khashoggi was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. (With inputs from agencies)

Jamal Khashoggi's fiance calls for international probe in killing

An official Saudi Arabian investigation into the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents failed to examine who may have ordered the killing and ignored key suspects, a UN special rapporteur said on Wednesday.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a key adviser, and other senior officials should be investigated over the premeditated murder at its consulate in Istanbul given the evidence against them, said Agnes Callamard, UN investigator on extrajudicial executions who undertook her own inquiry.

Saudi officials have long denied suspicions in the CIA and some Western countries that the crown prince, the kingdom's de facto ruler, ordered the killing in October.

"The inquiry, which was a human rights inquiry, not a criminal investigation, has found credible evidence, warranting further investigation, of high-level Saudi officials' individual liability, including that of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and his key adviser (Saud) Qahtani," Callamard told the UN Human Rights Council.

"The investigation carried out by the Saudi authorities has failed to address the chain of command," she said.

She reiterated the recommendation in her report, issued this month, for an international criminal investigation.

Abdulaziz Alwasil, Saudi ambassador to the UN in Geneva, said Callamard's report was "based on prejudice and prefabricated ideas".

"This is why we reject any attempt to remove this from our national justice system in Saudi Arabia, irrespective of the form that may take," Alwasil told the council.

Gulf allies including Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates spoke in favour of allowing the Saudi justice system to do its work.

Qahtani, seen as the right-hand man to Prince Mohammed, was removed as a royal court adviser and is the highest-profile figure implicated in the incident. However, he is not among 11 on trial.

"The prosecutor in a public statement has recognised that one particular person, Saud al-Qahtani, incited the mission before it departed, calling Mr Khashoggi 'a national threat', and yet this particular individual has not been indicted," Callamard said, noting that a total of 15 Saudis were involved.

Walter Stevens, European Union ambassador, said that those responsible must be held to account and called on Saudi Arabia to disclose all information available and to fully cooperate with all investigations into the killing.

Canada's envoy said: "The explanations provided by Saudi Arabia to date are insufficient."

Hatice Cengiz, a Turkish writer and Khashoggi's fiancée, who is to address the council later, on Tuesday said she supported an international criminal investigation into what she called a political murder by Saudi agents.

An official Saudi Arabian investigation into the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents failed to examine who may have ordered the killing and ignored key suspects, a UN special rapporteur said on Wednesday.

An official Saudi Arabian investigation into the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents failed to examine who may have ordered the killing and ignored key suspects, a UN special rapporteur said on Wednesday. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a key adviser, and other senior officials should be investigated over the premeditated murder at its consulate in Istanbul given the evidence against them, said Agnes Callamard, UN investigator on extrajudicial executions who undertook her own inquiry. Saudi officials have long denied suspicions in the CIA and some Western countries that the crown prince, the kingdom's de facto ruler, ordered the killing in October. "The inquiry, which was a human rights inquiry, not a criminal investigation, has found credible evidence, warranting further investigation, of high-level Saudi officials' individual liability, including that of the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and his key adviser (Saud) Qahtani," Callamard told the UN Human Rights Council. "The investigation carried out by the Saudi authorities has failed to address the chain of command," she said. She reiterated the recommendation in her report, issued this month, for an international criminal investigation. Abdulaziz Alwasil, Saudi ambassador to the UN in Geneva, said Callamard's report was "based on prejudice and prefabricated ideas". "This is why we reject any attempt to remove this from our national justice system in Saudi Arabia, irrespective of the form that may take," Alwasil told the council. Gulf allies including Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates spoke in favour of allowing the Saudi justice system to do its work. Qahtani, seen as the right-hand man to Prince Mohammed, was removed as a royal court adviser and is the highest-profile figure implicated in the incident. However, he is not among 11 on trial. "The prosecutor in a public statement has recognised that one particular person, Saud al-Qahtani, incited the mission before it departed, calling Mr Khashoggi 'a national threat', and yet this particular individual has not been indicted," Callamard said, noting that a total of 15 Saudis were involved. Walter Stevens, European Union ambassador, said that those responsible must be held to account and called on Saudi Arabia to disclose all information available and to fully cooperate with all investigations into the killing. Canada's envoy said: "The explanations provided by Saudi Arabia to date are insufficient." Hatice Cengiz, a Turkish writer and Khashoggi's fiancée, who is to address the council later, on Tuesday said she supported an international criminal investigation into what she called a political murder by Saudi agents.

Saudi probe dodges who ordered Khashoggi murder: UN expert

Agnes Callamard, the United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, has criticised the Saudi Arabian investigation into the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents.

UN Special Rapporteur presents report on Jamal Khashoggi murder

Donald Trump has dismissed a United Nations request for the FBI to investigate the murder of the dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi, suggesting it would jeopardise American weapons sales to Saudi Arabia.

Trump refuses to pay heed to UN report

Shortly upon the release of a UN report regarding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">Jamal Khashoggi's</a> killing, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mesut-ozil-marries-in-istanbul-with-turkish-president-erdogan-as-best-man-225674">Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> on Wednesday said that late journalist's killers "will pay the price."

"(They will) pay the price and be held accountable," Anadolu Agency quoted Erdogan as saying during an event in Istanbul.

Khashoggi, who worked as a journalist for The Washington Post, was killed after entering Saudi Arabia's consulate here in October last year.

Even though Riyadh has outrightly rejected all allegations against it, Erdogan added that the Kingdom was guilty and had prior knowledge of the murder, as per the Turkish news agency.

An independent investigation led by the UN extrajudicial executions investigator, Agnes Callamard, held Saudi Arabia responsible for the scribe's "extrajudicial killing."

The report released on Wednesday revealed that the late Saudi Arabian journalist was the victim of a "deliberate, premeditated execution," according to CNN.

The Kingdom has dismissed the report.

While Riyadh initially denied any knowledge of Khashoggi's killing, Saudi officials later claimed that a group of rogue operators, many of whom belong to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's inner circle, were responsible for the journalist's death. The Saudi attorney general later confirmed that Khashoggi was killed in a premeditated murder.

The special rapporteur, however, does not make any conclusions over the role of the Saudi Crown Prince and King in the murder case.

Instead, Callamard says that there is "credible evidence meriting further investigation by a proper authority" as to whether the "threshold of criminal responsibility has been met."

Saudi Arabia began the trial for 11 suspects in the murder case earlier this year, after rejecting Erdogan's call for the suspected Saudi nationals to be extradited to Turkey to face trial in the nation where the crime took place.

Shortly upon the release of a UN report regarding Jamal Khashoggi's killing, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that late journalist's killers "will pay the price.

Shortly upon the release of a UN report regarding Jamal Khashoggi's killing, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that late journalist's killers "will pay the price." "(They will) pay the price and be held accountable," Anadolu Agency quoted Erdogan as saying during an event in Istanbul. Khashoggi, who worked as a journalist for The Washington Post, was killed after entering Saudi Arabia's consulate here in October last year. Even though Riyadh has outrightly rejected all allegations against it, Erdogan added that the Kingdom was guilty and had prior knowledge of the murder, as per the Turkish news agency. An independent investigation led by the UN extrajudicial executions investigator, Agnes Callamard, held Saudi Arabia responsible for the scribe's "extrajudicial killing." The report released on Wednesday revealed that the late Saudi Arabian journalist was the victim of a "deliberate, premeditated execution," according to CNN. The Kingdom has dismissed the report. While Riyadh initially denied any knowledge of Khashoggi's killing, Saudi officials later claimed that a group of rogue operators, many of whom belong to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's inner circle, were responsible for the journalist's death. The Saudi attorney general later confirmed that Khashoggi was killed in a premeditated murder. The special rapporteur, however, does not make any conclusions over the role of the Saudi Crown Prince and King in the murder case. Instead, Callamard says that there is "credible evidence meriting further investigation by a proper authority" as to whether the "threshold of criminal responsibility has been met." Saudi Arabia began the trial for 11 suspects in the murder case earlier this year, after rejecting Erdogan's call for the suspected Saudi nationals to be extradited to Turkey to face trial in the nation where the crime took place.

Jamal Khashoggi's killers will pay the price, says Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has said that Saudi Arabia will pay a price for the killing of Jamal Khashoggi. Watch this video to know more.

Khashoggi Murder: Turkey says Saudi will pay the price

A Saudi minister on Wednesday slammed UN rights investigator's claim over the death of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evidence-suggests-saudi-crown-prince-is-liable-for-khashoggi-murder-un-expert-228685">Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a>.

Calling the UN expert report as "unfounded", Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs Adel al-Jubeir said, "It is not new. The (UN) report reiterates what has already been published and circulated in the media. The report... contains clear contradictions and unfounded allegations, casting doubt on its credibility."

A UN rights investigator cited evidence on Wednesday claiming&nbsp;that the proof suggested Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials liable for the murder of journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">Jamal Khashoggi</a>.

"It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that Mr. Khashoggi has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions said in her report based on a six-month investigation.

Agnes Callamard also called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-warns-against-exploiting-khashoggi-murder-227519">Saudi Arabia</a> has regularly denied accusations that the prince was involved in the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Khashoggi, a critic of the prince and a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding.

His body was dismembered and removed from the building, the Saudi prosecutor has said, and his remains have not been found.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Saudi minister on Wednesday slammed UN rights investigator's claim over the death of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Calling the UN expert report as "unfounded", Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs Adel al-Jubeir said, "It is not new.

A Saudi minister on Wednesday slammed UN rights investigator's claim over the death of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Calling the UN expert report as "unfounded", Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs Adel al-Jubeir said, "It is not new. The (UN) report reiterates what has already been published and circulated in the media. The report... contains clear contradictions and unfounded allegations, casting doubt on its credibility." A UN rights investigator cited evidence on Wednesday claiming that the proof suggested Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials liable for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. "It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that Mr. Khashoggi has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions said in her report based on a six-month investigation. Agnes Callamard also called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility. Saudi Arabia has regularly denied accusations that the prince was involved in the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Khashoggi, a critic of the prince and a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was dismembered and removed from the building, the Saudi prosecutor has said, and his remains have not been found. (With inputs from agencies)

UN expert's report on Khashoggi's murder contains unfounded allegations: Saudi Arabia

Turkey on Wednesday backed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evidence-suggests-saudi-crown-prince-is-liable-for-khashoggi-murder-un-expert-228685">UN report which held accountable </a>Saudi&nbsp;Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman&nbsp;and other officials for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

In a tweet, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said, "Strongly endorse #UN Rapporteur @AgnesCallamard's recommendations for elucidating Khashoggi's murder&amp;holding those responsible accountable".

A UN rights investigator cited evidence on Wednesday claiming&nbsp;that the proof suggested Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials liable for the murder of journalist&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">Jamal Khashoggi</a>.

"It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that Mr. Khashoggi has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions said in her report based on a six-month investigation.

Agnes Callamard also called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility.

Khashoggi, a Washington Post contributor and critic of Prince Mohammed, was murdered at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2.

The Saudi journalist disappeared after entering his country's consulate in Istanbul. His disappearance was initially shrouded in mystery and triggered an international crisis for both Riyadh and Washington as Turkish officials accused Saudi Arabia of a state-sponsored killing.

Riyadh, after insisting that Khashoggi left its consulate alive, said more than two weeks afterwards that he died in a "brawl" that arose from a dispute with people he met there.

Three weeks on, the Saudi public prosecutor said the murder was "premeditated" according to information supplied by Turkey.

Khashoggi came from a prominent Saudi family with Turkish origins.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Turkey on Wednesday backed the UN report which held accountable Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other officials for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Turkey on Wednesday backed the UN report which held accountable Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other officials for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. In a tweet, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said, "Strongly endorse #UN Rapporteur @AgnesCallamard's recommendations for elucidating Khashoggi's murder&holding those responsible accountable". A UN rights investigator cited evidence on Wednesday claiming that the proof suggested Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials liable for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. "It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that Mr. Khashoggi has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions said in her report based on a six-month investigation. Agnes Callamard also called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility. Khashoggi, a Washington Post contributor and critic of Prince Mohammed, was murdered at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2. The Saudi journalist disappeared after entering his country's consulate in Istanbul. His disappearance was initially shrouded in mystery and triggered an international crisis for both Riyadh and Washington as Turkish officials accused Saudi Arabia of a state-sponsored killing. Riyadh, after insisting that Khashoggi left its consulate alive, said more than two weeks afterwards that he died in a "brawl" that arose from a dispute with people he met there. Three weeks on, the Saudi public prosecutor said the murder was "premeditated" according to information supplied by Turkey. Khashoggi came from a prominent Saudi family with Turkish origins. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey says endorses UN report on Khashoggi murder

The crown prince of Saudi Arabia should be investigated over the murder of the dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi because there is “credible evidence” that he and other senior officials are liable for the killing, according to a damning and forensic UN report.

'Credible evidence' Saudi crown prince liable for Khashoggi killing – UN report

Evidence suggests <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-warns-against-exploiting-khashoggi-murder-227519">Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman</a> and other senior Saudi officials are liable for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi</a>, a UN rights investigator said on Wednesday.

There was no immediate reaction from Riyadh which was sent the 100-page report in advance - but the kingdom has regularly denied accusations that the prince was involved.

Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility.

Khashoggi, a critic of the prince and a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding.

His body was dismembered and removed from the building, the Saudi prosecutor has said, and his remains have not been found.

"It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-post-publishes-jamal-khashoggis-last-piece-172051">Mr. Khashoggi</a> has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Callamard said in her report based on a six-month investigation.

Callamard went to Turkey earlier this year with a team of forensic and legal experts and said she received evidence from Turkish authorities.

"There is credible evidence, warranting further investigation of high-level Saudi officials' individual liability, including the Crown Prince's", she said.

"Indeed, this human rights inquiry has shown that there is sufficient credible evidence regarding the responsibility of the Crown Prince demanding further investigation," she added, urging UN Secretary-General to establish an international probe.

Evidence suggests Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials are liable for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a UN rights investigator said on Wednesday.

Evidence suggests Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials are liable for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a UN rights investigator said on Wednesday. There was no immediate reaction from Riyadh which was sent the 100-page report in advance - but the kingdom has regularly denied accusations that the prince was involved. Agnes Callamard, the UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, called for countries to widen sanctions to include the Crown Prince and his personal assets, until and unless he can prove he has no responsibility. Khashoggi, a critic of the prince and a Washington Post columnist, was last seen at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 where he was to receive papers ahead of his wedding. His body was dismembered and removed from the building, the Saudi prosecutor has said, and his remains have not been found. "It is the conclusion of the Special Rapporteur that Mr. Khashoggi has been the victim of a deliberate, premeditated execution, an extrajudicial killing for which the state of Saudi Arabia is responsible under international human rights law," Callamard said in her report based on a six-month investigation. Callamard went to Turkey earlier this year with a team of forensic and legal experts and said she received evidence from Turkish authorities. "There is credible evidence, warranting further investigation of high-level Saudi officials' individual liability, including the Crown Prince's", she said. "Indeed, this human rights inquiry has shown that there is sufficient credible evidence regarding the responsibility of the Crown Prince demanding further investigation," she added, urging UN Secretary-General to establish an international probe.

Evidence suggests Saudi Crown Prince is liable for Khashoggi murder: UN expert

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has warned against "exploiting" the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106">murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi </a>for political gains, in what appeared to be a veiled attack on Turkey.

Turkey's ties with Saudi Arabia have come under strain since the brutal murder last October of Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, which tarnished the international reputation of the crown prince.

Turkish officials were the first to report the murder and have continued to press Saudi Arabia for information on the whereabouts of his dismembered body, which has yet to be found.

"The death of Jamal Khashoggi is a very painful crime," Prince Mohammed told pan-Arab daily Asharq al-Awsat in an interview published Sunday.

"Any party exploiting the case politically should stop doing so, and present evidence to the (Saudi) court, which will contribute in achieving justice," he added, without directly naming Turkey.

The prince, however, added that he wants strong relations with "all Islamic countries including Turkey".

The CIA has reportedly said the murder was likely ordered by Prince Mohammed, the de facto ruler and heir to the Arab world's most powerful throne.

Saudi authorities strongly deny the allegation.

Saudi prosecutors have absolved the prince and said around two dozen people implicated in the murder are in custody, with death penalties sought against five men.

Khashoggi, a US resident, had written critically of Prince Mohammed and was killed in what Riyadh described as a rogue operation.

Prince Mohammed said the kingdom was committed to "full justice and accountability" in the case, as he faces international pressure to punish the culprits.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has warned against "exploiting" the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi for political gains, in what appeared to be a veiled attack on Turkey.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has warned against "exploiting" the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi for political gains, in what appeared to be a veiled attack on Turkey. Turkey's ties with Saudi Arabia have come under strain since the brutal murder last October of Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, which tarnished the international reputation of the crown prince. Turkish officials were the first to report the murder and have continued to press Saudi Arabia for information on the whereabouts of his dismembered body, which has yet to be found. "The death of Jamal Khashoggi is a very painful crime," Prince Mohammed told pan-Arab daily Asharq al-Awsat in an interview published Sunday. "Any party exploiting the case politically should stop doing so, and present evidence to the (Saudi) court, which will contribute in achieving justice," he added, without directly naming Turkey. The prince, however, added that he wants strong relations with "all Islamic countries including Turkey". The CIA has reportedly said the murder was likely ordered by Prince Mohammed, the de facto ruler and heir to the Arab world's most powerful throne. Saudi authorities strongly deny the allegation. Saudi prosecutors have absolved the prince and said around two dozen people implicated in the murder are in custody, with death penalties sought against five men. Khashoggi, a US resident, had written critically of Prince Mohammed and was killed in what Riyadh described as a rogue operation. Prince Mohammed said the kingdom was committed to "full justice and accountability" in the case, as he faces international pressure to punish the culprits.

Saudi crown prince warns against 'exploiting' Khashoggi murder

Pope Francis paid tribute on Saturday to journalists killed while doing their jobs, saying media freedom is a key indicator of a country's health.

In an address to the Foreign Press Association in Italy, he urged journalists to shun fake news and continue reporting on the plight of people who no longer make headlines but are still suffering, specifically mentioning the Rohingya and Yazidi.

"I listened in pain to the statistics about your colleagues killed while carrying out their work with courage and dedication in so many countries to report on what is happening in wars and other dramatic situations in which so many of our brothers and sisters in the world live," he said.

Francis had just heard the association's president, Patricia Thomas of Associated Press Television, talk about journalists killed, imprisoned, wounded or threatened in their line of work.

She mentioned Lyra Mckee, who was shot dead while covering a riot in Northern Ireland, Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who died in a car bomb in 2017, and Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, killed in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul last year.

"Freedom of the press and of expression is an important indicator of the state of a country's health," the pope said. "Let's not forget that one of the first things dictatorships do is remove freedom of the press or mask it, not leaving it free."

Francis did not mention any countries in his address to about 400 members of the foreign media and their families.

"We need journalists who are on the side of victims, on the side of those who are persecuted, on the side of who is excluded, cast aside, discriminated against," he said.

In an apparent reference to the media's role in investigating the Roman Catholic Church's sexual abuse crisis, Francis said,&nbsp;"The Church holds you in esteem, also when you put your finger in a wound, even if the wound is in the Church community."

Francis urged the media to not lose interest in tragedies even when they no longer make headlines.

"Who is talking about the Rohingya today? Who is talking about the Yazidi today? They have been forgotten and they continue to suffer," he said.

Nearly one million Rohingya Muslims from mostly Buddhist Myanmar have fled to Bangladesh, most following a Myanmar military-led crackdown in 2017 that UN&nbsp;investigators have said was conducted with "genocidal intent". Myanmar has denied almost all allegations of atrocities.

Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after they were convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act walked free from prison earlier this month after more than 500 days behind bars.

Reuters has said the two men did not commit any crime and had called for their release. They were released under a presidential amnesty for 6,520 prisoners.

Islamic State militants in Iraq shot, beheaded, burned alive or kidnapped more than 9,000 members of the minority Yazidi religion, in what the United Nations has called a genocidal campaign against them.

Pope Francis paid tribute on Saturday to journalists killed while doing their jobs, saying media freedom is a key indicator of a country's health. In an address to the Foreign Press Association in Italy, he urged journalists to shun fake news and continue reporting on the plight of people who no longer make headlines but are still suffering, specifically mentioning the Rohingya and Yazidi.

Pope Francis paid tribute on Saturday to journalists killed while doing their jobs, saying media freedom is a key indicator of a country's health. In an address to the Foreign Press Association in Italy, he urged journalists to shun fake news and continue reporting on the plight of people who no longer make headlines but are still suffering, specifically mentioning the Rohingya and Yazidi. "I listened in pain to the statistics about your colleagues killed while carrying out their work with courage and dedication in so many countries to report on what is happening in wars and other dramatic situations in which so many of our brothers and sisters in the world live," he said. Francis had just heard the association's president, Patricia Thomas of Associated Press Television, talk about journalists killed, imprisoned, wounded or threatened in their line of work. She mentioned Lyra Mckee, who was shot dead while covering a riot in Northern Ireland, Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, who died in a car bomb in 2017, and Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, killed in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul last year. "Freedom of the press and of expression is an important indicator of the state of a country's health," the pope said. "Let's not forget that one of the first things dictatorships do is remove freedom of the press or mask it, not leaving it free." Francis did not mention any countries in his address to about 400 members of the foreign media and their families. "We need journalists who are on the side of victims, on the side of those who are persecuted, on the side of who is excluded, cast aside, discriminated against," he said. In an apparent reference to the media's role in investigating the Roman Catholic Church's sexual abuse crisis, Francis said, "The Church holds you in esteem, also when you put your finger in a wound, even if the wound is in the Church community." Francis urged the media to not lose interest in tragedies even when they no longer make headlines. "Who is talking about the Rohingya today? Who is talking about the Yazidi today? They have been forgotten and they continue to suffer," he said. Nearly one million Rohingya Muslims from mostly Buddhist Myanmar have fled to Bangladesh, most following a Myanmar military-led crackdown in 2017 that UN investigators have said was conducted with "genocidal intent". Myanmar has denied almost all allegations of atrocities. Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after they were convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act walked free from prison earlier this month after more than 500 days behind bars. Reuters has said the two men did not commit any crime and had called for their release. They were released under a presidential amnesty for 6,520 prisoners. Islamic State militants in Iraq shot, beheaded, burned alive or kidnapped more than 9,000 members of the minority Yazidi religion, in what the United Nations has called a genocidal campaign against them.

Pope pays tribute journalists killed; says press freedom vital

Lawyers for a jailed Moroccan journalist Friday urged a UN special rapporteur to request that authorities release his phone, to retrieve an "exchange of messages" with murdered Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi.

"Arbitrarily detained Moroccan journalist Taoufik Bouachrine's defence urges Agnes Callamard, UN Special Rapporteur" to make a request to the Moroccan authorities for access to Bouachrine's phone, the detained journalist's lawyers said in a statement.&nbsp;

Khashoggi -- a contributor to the Washington Post and a critic of the Saudi government -- was killed and dismembered in October at the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul by a team of 15 agents sent from Riyadh. His body has not been recovered.

Callamard, UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings, is conducting an independent inquiry into Khashoggi's grisly demise.&nbsp;

The statement said Bouachrine's counsel had sent a letter to Callamard urging her to request release of the phone, which it said had been confiscated by Moroccan authorities.&nbsp;

Bouachrine has said that his phone "contains messages from Jamal Khashoggi warning him of existing threats against him", the statement added.

It cited messages exchanged between October 2017 and January 2018 as likely to be of particular relevance to the special rapporteur's investigation.

Khashoggi's warnings to Bouachrine regarding his safety stemmed from "the many articles he (Bouachrine) had published that were critical of Saudi Arabia and (Crown Prince) Mohammed bin Salman", the statement by Bouachrine's lawyers added.

A Moroccan court sentenced Bouachrine to 12 years in prison in November 2018, after he was found guilty of human trafficking, abuse of power for sexual purposes, rape and attempted rape.

Bouachrine maintains his innocence and has described his convictions as politically motivated, while rights group Amnesty International has called for his release.

Bouachrine's newspaper Akhbar Al-Yaum has long been known for editorials and cartoons critical of the Moroccan authorities.

Khashoggi told Bouachrine "not to travel to Saudi Arabia, and also alerted him that he was in danger of being killed" even in Morocco's capital Rabat, the statement said.&nbsp;

A UN Human Rights Council working group reported in January that Bouachrine was the victim of "arbitrary detention" and "judicial harassment".

It also cited a lack of evidence and alleged witness intimidation.

Moroccan authorities firmly deny the accusations.

Lawyers for a jailed Moroccan journalist Friday urged a UN special rapporteur to request that authorities release his phone, to retrieve an "exchange of messages" with murdered Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi.

Lawyers for a jailed Moroccan journalist Friday urged a UN special rapporteur to request that authorities release his phone, to retrieve an "exchange of messages" with murdered Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi. "Arbitrarily detained Moroccan journalist Taoufik Bouachrine's defence urges Agnes Callamard, UN Special Rapporteur" to make a request to the Moroccan authorities for access to Bouachrine's phone, the detained journalist's lawyers said in a statement. Khashoggi -- a contributor to the Washington Post and a critic of the Saudi government -- was killed and dismembered in October at the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul by a team of 15 agents sent from Riyadh. His body has not been recovered. Callamard, UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings, is conducting an independent inquiry into Khashoggi's grisly demise. The statement said Bouachrine's counsel had sent a letter to Callamard urging her to request release of the phone, which it said had been confiscated by Moroccan authorities. Bouachrine has said that his phone "contains messages from Jamal Khashoggi warning him of existing threats against him", the statement added. It cited messages exchanged between October 2017 and January 2018 as likely to be of particular relevance to the special rapporteur's investigation. Khashoggi's warnings to Bouachrine regarding his safety stemmed from "the many articles he (Bouachrine) had published that were critical of Saudi Arabia and (Crown Prince) Mohammed bin Salman", the statement by Bouachrine's lawyers added. A Moroccan court sentenced Bouachrine to 12 years in prison in November 2018, after he was found guilty of human trafficking, abuse of power for sexual purposes, rape and attempted rape. Bouachrine maintains his innocence and has described his convictions as politically motivated, while rights group Amnesty International has called for his release. Bouachrine's newspaper Akhbar Al-Yaum has long been known for editorials and cartoons critical of the Moroccan authorities. Khashoggi told Bouachrine "not to travel to Saudi Arabia, and also alerted him that he was in danger of being killed" even in Morocco's capital Rabat, the statement said. A UN Human Rights Council working group reported in January that Bouachrine was the victim of "arbitrary detention" and "judicial harassment". It also cited a lack of evidence and alleged witness intimidation. Moroccan authorities firmly deny the accusations.

Lawyers of jailed Moroccan journalist urge UN phone release to retrieve messages with Jamal Khashoggi

Hatice Cengiz, the fiance of Jamal Khashoggi, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggis-killing-a-murder-that-shook-2018-186106"> journalist murdered at a Saudi Arabian consulate in Turkey </a>last year, said on Thursday she could not believe that no one has yet faced serious consequences for the crime.

"I cannot understand that the world still has not done anything about this," Cengiz told a US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs subcommittee, speaking in Turkish through an interpreter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamal-khashoggi-other-journalists-are-named-time-magazines-person-of-the-year-183310">Jamal Khashoggi is Time magazine's 'Person of the Year'</a>

"I still cannot make human sense of it. I still cannot understand. I still feel that I`ll wake up," she said in emotional testimony to a hearing on international press freedom and the dangers of reporting on human rights.

Cengiz was the last person to see Khashoggi, a US&nbsp;resident and columnist for the Washington Post, before he went into the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October&nbsp;2 to obtain papers for their upcoming marriage.

He never left the building.

The Saudi journalist, a royal insider who became a critic of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed and dismembered inside the consulate by a team of Saudi operatives, provoking international revulsion.

"We still don`t know why he was killed. We don`t know where his corpse is," Cengiz said. She called for sanctions to punish Saudi Arabia and for Washington to push for the freedom of political prisoners held in the kingdom.

US authorities have concluded that responsibility for Khashoggi`s death went to the highest levels of the Saudi government. Riyadh denies the crown prince was involved.

Cengiz said she came to Washington hoping to help provoke a stronger reaction to her fiance` s death. She said President Donald Trump invited her to the White House months earlier, but that she had not come then because she was not confident about his response.

"I think we choose between two things ...," Cengiz told the subcommittee. "We can either go on as if nothing has happened ... or we can act, we can leave aside all interests, international interests and politics, and focus on the values for a better life."

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In the past, Trump has resisted imposing consequences such as strong sanctions. Saudi Arabia is considered an important partner in the Middle East and a counterweight to Iran.

Calling the United States "a fortress" protecting freedom of thought and human rights, Cengiz appealed for justice. 
"I think it is a test for the United States and I believe it is a test that it can and should pass," she said.

Hatice Cengiz, the fiance of Jamal Khashoggi, the journalist murdered at a Saudi Arabian consulate in Turkey last year, said on Thursday she could not believe that no one has yet faced serious consequences for the crime.

Hatice Cengiz, the fiance of Jamal Khashoggi, the journalist murdered at a Saudi Arabian consulate in Turkey last year, said on Thursday she could not believe that no one has yet faced serious consequences for the crime. "I cannot understand that the world still has not done anything about this," Cengiz told a US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs subcommittee, speaking in Turkish through an interpreter. Also read: Jamal Khashoggi is Time magazine's 'Person of the Year' "I still cannot make human sense of it. I still cannot understand. I still feel that I`ll wake up," she said in emotional testimony to a hearing on international press freedom and the dangers of reporting on human rights. Cengiz was the last person to see Khashoggi, a US resident and columnist for the Washington Post, before he went into the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2 to obtain papers for their upcoming marriage. He never left the building. The Saudi journalist, a royal insider who became a critic of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed and dismembered inside the consulate by a team of Saudi operatives, provoking international revulsion. "We still don`t know why he was killed. We don`t know where his corpse is," Cengiz said. She called for sanctions to punish Saudi Arabia and for Washington to push for the freedom of political prisoners held in the kingdom. US authorities have concluded that responsibility for Khashoggi`s death went to the highest levels of the Saudi government. Riyadh denies the crown prince was involved. Cengiz said she came to Washington hoping to help provoke a stronger reaction to her fiance` s death. She said President Donald Trump invited her to the White House months earlier, but that she had not come then because she was not confident about his response. "I think we choose between two things ...," Cengiz told the subcommittee. "We can either go on as if nothing has happened ... or we can act, we can leave aside all interests, international interests and politics, and focus on the values for a better life." The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In the past, Trump has resisted imposing consequences such as strong sanctions. Saudi Arabia is considered an important partner in the Middle East and a counterweight to Iran. Calling the United States "a fortress" protecting freedom of thought and human rights, Cengiz appealed for justice. "I think it is a test for the United States and I believe it is a test that it can and should pass," she said.

'The world still has not done anything,' says slain Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi's fiance

A UN investigator on Thursday urged United Nations to provide justice to slain journalist<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-murder-planned-and-perpetrated-by-saudi-officials-un-expert-195896&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiQhP2lxdvhAhWw6XMBHQYmCPUQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3xT-CA2v91T0XsDAYpjpQw"> Jamal Khashoggi</a>, recommending that the "perpetrators" and the "masterminds" behind the murder should be "tried".

Agnes Callamard, an academic who leads an international probe into the killing at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, is expected to release her findings to the United Nations Rights Council before its next session in June.

"My report is ... going to spend a lot of time and pages on the next steps and the recommendations and how we provide accountability to Mr Khashoggi, to his family, friends and colleagues," Callamard told Al Jazeera on Thursday.

It will examine how "we ensure that the killing, and the vacuum the killing generated in terms of accountability so that we take steps to address the vacuum", she added.

"I am not a court of law. I cannot try the perpetrators. I can provide the information, I can recommend that the perpetrators and the masterminds be tried, but I cannot do that myself," Callamard said.

"You have to wait a few more months as I go through the various options, but you will find that in the report."

According to US intelligence agencies, Khashoggi`s murder was enacted upon orders given by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman.

However, Saudi Arabia has repeatedly rejected all the allegations against its Crown Prince, adding that it is committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Meanwhile, prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for five of the 11 people allegedly involved in Khashoggi`s murder.

If the accused are convicted and given death penalties, the Saudi justice system would allow Khashoggi`s family to grant mercy to the alleged murderers through the so-called "blood money" arrangement.

A UN investigator on Thursday urged United Nations to provide justice to slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, recommending that the "perpetrators" and the "masterminds" behind the murder should be "tried".

A UN investigator on Thursday urged United Nations to provide justice to slain journalist Jamal Khashoggi, recommending that the "perpetrators" and the "masterminds" behind the murder should be "tried". Agnes Callamard, an academic who leads an international probe into the killing at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, is expected to release her findings to the United Nations Rights Council before its next session in June. "My report is ... going to spend a lot of time and pages on the next steps and the recommendations and how we provide accountability to Mr Khashoggi, to his family, friends and colleagues," Callamard told Al Jazeera on Thursday. It will examine how "we ensure that the killing, and the vacuum the killing generated in terms of accountability so that we take steps to address the vacuum", she added. "I am not a court of law. I cannot try the perpetrators. I can provide the information, I can recommend that the perpetrators and the masterminds be tried, but I cannot do that myself," Callamard said. "You have to wait a few more months as I go through the various options, but you will find that in the report." According to US intelligence agencies, Khashoggi`s murder was enacted upon orders given by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. However, Saudi Arabia has repeatedly rejected all the allegations against its Crown Prince, adding that it is committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. Meanwhile, prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for five of the 11 people allegedly involved in Khashoggi`s murder. If the accused are convicted and given death penalties, the Saudi justice system would allow Khashoggi`s family to grant mercy to the alleged murderers through the so-called "blood money" arrangement.

Khashoggi murder perpetrators should be tried, says UN investigator

Turkey has arrested two intelligence operatives who confessed to spying on Arab nationals for the United Arab Emirates, and it is probing whether the arrival in Turkey of one of them was related to Jamal Khashoggi's murder, a senior Turkish official said on Friday.

One of the two men arrived in Turkey in October 2018, days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-family-denies-settlement-with-saudis-statement-209337">Khashoggi was murdered inside Saudi Arabia's consulate</a> in Istanbul, the official said, adding the other arrived to help his colleague with the workload.

"We are investigating whether the primary individual's arrival in Turkey was related to the Jamal Khashoggi murder," said the official, adding the person has been monitored for the past six months.

"It is possible that there was an attempt to collect information about Arabs, including political dissidents, living in Turkey."

The arrests were made in Istanbul on Monday as part of a counter-intelligence investigation. Turkish officials seized an encrypted computer located in a hidden compartment at what the official told Reuters was the spy ring's base.

The official, who requested anonymity, said statements by the detained men suggested their intelligence operation targeted political exiles and students.

Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and critic of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed in the Saudi consulate on Oct. 2, provoking an international outcry.

The CIA and some Western countries believe the Crown Prince, Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, ordered the killing, which Saudi officials deny. The Saudi public prosecutor has indicted 11 unidentified suspects, including five who could face the death penalty on charges of ordering and committing the crime.

Turkey has arrested two intelligence operatives who confessed to spying on Arab nationals for the United Arab Emirates, and it is probing whether the arrival in Turkey of one of them was related to Jamal Khashoggi's murder, a senior Turkish official said on Friday.

Turkey has arrested two intelligence operatives who confessed to spying on Arab nationals for the United Arab Emirates, and it is probing whether the arrival in Turkey of one of them was related to Jamal Khashoggi's murder, a senior Turkish official said on Friday. One of the two men arrived in Turkey in October 2018, days after Khashoggi was murdered inside Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul, the official said, adding the other arrived to help his colleague with the workload. "We are investigating whether the primary individual's arrival in Turkey was related to the Jamal Khashoggi murder," said the official, adding the person has been monitored for the past six months. "It is possible that there was an attempt to collect information about Arabs, including political dissidents, living in Turkey." The arrests were made in Istanbul on Monday as part of a counter-intelligence investigation. Turkish officials seized an encrypted computer located in a hidden compartment at what the official told Reuters was the spy ring's base. The official, who requested anonymity, said statements by the detained men suggested their intelligence operation targeted political exiles and students. Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and critic of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was killed in the Saudi consulate on Oct. 2, provoking an international outcry. The CIA and some Western countries believe the Crown Prince, Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, ordered the killing, which Saudi officials deny. The Saudi public prosecutor has indicted 11 unidentified suspects, including five who could face the death penalty on charges of ordering and committing the crime.

Turkey probes Khashoggi link after arresting suspected UAE spies

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