The lasting impact of Khashoggi's murder on Saudi Arabia's global standing

Five years after the brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has successfully rehabilitated his regime's image and strengthened his position on the global stage. Despite US intelligence officials implicating Prince Mohammed in Khashoggi's assassination, he has met with world leaders, positioned Saudi Arabia as a tourism destination, and pursued ambitious projects like the Neom city. Both the Trump and Biden administrations have prioritized short-term economic and security interests over human rights, with Biden failing to hold Prince Mohammed accountable. The crown prince has even embarrassed Biden by flexing his influence over global oil markets. As a result, Prince Mohammed has emerged more defiant and powerful than ever before.