Former Trump NSA on the Murder of Khashoggi
This documentary segment features an interview with John Bolton, who served as National Security Advisor to President Donald Trump from 2018 to 2019. The discussion focuses on the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, an event that occurred during Bolton’s tenure in the Trump administration. The interview provides insights into the internal White House perspective and policy considerations surrounding the incident.
The interview was conducted by FRONTLINE’s Martin Smith on March 3, 2026, as part of the documentary “The Crown Prince & the President.” This larger work examines the relationship and alliance between then-President Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Bolton’s commentary contributes to an understanding of the diplomatic and political responses to Khashoggi’s assassination within the context of U.S.-Saudi relations.
Key Themes & Topics Examined
- The murder of Jamal Khashoggi and its international implications.
- The role of the U.S. National Security Advisor in foreign policy crises.
- The relationship between the Trump administration and Saudi Arabia.
- The political dynamics surrounding Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
- U.S. foreign policy considerations regarding human rights and strategic alliances.
Archival & Investigative Sources
- Interview with John Bolton, former U.S. National Security Advisor.
- Contextual information from the FRONTLINE documentary “The Crown Prince & the President.”
- Bolton’s prior experience as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.
- References to Bolton’s memoir, “The Room Where It Happened: A White House Memoir.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is John Bolton?
John Bolton is an American attorney, political commentator, and former diplomat who served as the U.S. National Security Advisor under President Donald Trump from 2018 to 2019. He previously held positions as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security.
What was the significance of Jamal Khashoggi’s murder?
Jamal Khashoggi was a Saudi journalist and Washington Post columnist who was assassinated at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, on October 2, 2018. His murder sparked international condemnation and raised questions about human rights, freedom of the press, and the conduct of the Saudi government, particularly Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
What is “The Crown Prince & the President”?
“The Crown Prince & the President” is a documentary produced by FRONTLINE that investigates the alliance between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, exploring the political and diplomatic aspects of their relationship.
