Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Faces Backlash from 9/11 Survivors During US Visit

Post by : Raina Nasser

Washington, Nov 19, 2025 — The arrival of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House has rekindled intense scrutiny and frustration among 9/11 survivors, who expressed their outrage over his visit, despite assurances regarding steps to prevent future atrocities.

During a joint media briefing with former US President Donald Trump, Prince Salman addressed the tragic events of September 11, 2001, alongside the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. He stated, “Hearing about anyone losing their life for no valid reason is painful. It was a grave mistake, and we are fully committed to ensuring it does not happen again,” underlining Saudi Arabia's dedication to enhancing global security.

The crown prince asserted that Osama bin Laden manipulated Saudi citizens during the 9/11 incidents to tarnish US-Saudi relations. “Believing this narrative aids Bin Laden’s agenda,” he claimed, stressing the necessity of fostering diplomatic relations between Riyadh and Washington to combat extremism.

However, 9/11 survivors conveyed their displeasure and disbelief over the crown prince's presence in the Oval Office. Many assert that accountability for the attacks and Khashoggi's murder is still lacking. In 2021, US intelligence agencies concluded that Prince Salman had ordered Khashoggi's killing, a claim the crown prince continues to refute.

Advocacy groups for survivors emphasized that while the importance of diplomatic and economic relations between the US and Saudi Arabia is acknowledged, true justice and transparency are essential for reconciliation. “This visit serves as a poignant reminder that the families of victims still clamor for accountability,” remarked a spokesperson from the 9/11 Victims’ Families Association.

Standing next to the crown prince, Trump defended Salman against inquiries concerning Khashoggi's murder, asserting, “He was unaware of it.” This defense has faced criticism amid continuous debates on human rights, press freedom, and US foreign policy.

Prince Salman’s visit coincides with initiatives aimed at advancing civilian nuclear partnerships and defense agreements, including the sale of F-35 jets. Nevertheless, the specter of past tragedies, including 9/11 and Khashoggi’s assassination, casts a long shadow, highlighting the tension between realpolitik and ethical accountability in US-Saudi engagements.

Experts believe the visit indicates the intricate balancing act between diplomacy and historical grievances. As Saudi Arabia aims to enhance strategic partnerships and assuage its allies, victims and advocates for human rights persist in their calls for recognition, regret, and reform.

This visit highlights continual challenges within US-Saudi relations, particularly regarding accountability, transparency, and global trust. It also underscores the lasting impact of 9/11 and high-profile events like Khashoggi's death on diplomatic efforts, security protocols, and perceptions of Saudi leadership worldwide.

As the crown prince remains engaged in Washington, global observers closely monitor the balance between promises of reform and the justice demands from victims and international critics.