Saudi king ignores Khashoggi in speech

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman has given his first major speech since the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents, expressing support for his son, the crown prince, and making no mention of allegations the young royal ordered the killing.

The annual policy speech by the king yesterday instead highlighted Saudi Arabia’s priorities for the coming year, focusing on issues such as the war in Yemen, security for Palestinians, stability in the oil market, countering rival Iran and job creation for Saudis.

The king voiced support for his favoured son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying the 32-year-old heir to the throne was focused on developing the capabilities of Saudi youth. The prince oversees all major levers of power in the kingdom ranging from security to the economy.

King Salman said the kingdom “takes pride in the blessed efforts” of the judiciary and public prosecution.