The murder of Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent Saudi journalist and critic of the ruling family, in October 2018 sparked global outrage and intensified scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s government. Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, who married her husband in 2’teens 2018, has been a vocal advocate for justice and transparency. She now seeks U.S. diplomatic pressure to secure the return of her husband’s remains, a request that continues to be a focal point in ongoing U.S.-Saudi relations.
The U.S. government, under both the Trump and Biden administrations, has grappled with navigating its complex relationship with Saudi Arabia while addressing the Khashoggi case. Hanan’s public appeals highlight the personal and political dimensions of the issue. Despite international calls for accountability, the case remains a sensitive topic within the Saudi government and a contentious point in U.S. foreign policy. The unresolved matter continues to weigh on diplomatic efforts and public opinion, underscoring the broader implications of the incident on international relations and human rights.