Saudi Arabia has admitted journalist Jamal Khashoggi is dead.
The results of the country’s own investigation were revealed Friday evening and showed the 60-year-old died following an altercation at the kingdom’s consulate in Istanbul, Turkey October 2.
Saudi’s attorney general said in a statement:
‘Discussions between citizen Jamal Khashoggi and those who met him while he was in the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul led to a brawl and a fist fight, which led to his death.’
The investigations are still underway and 18 Saudi nationals have been arrested,’ the state prosecutor said in a statement to media. ‘The kingdom expresses its deep regret.’
The White House added it is ‘saddened’ by the confirmed death of the Saudi journalist.Press Secretary Sarah Sander wrote.
‘We will continue to follow international investigations into this tragic incident and advocate for justice that is timely, transparent and in accordance with all due process.’We offer our deepest condolences to his family, fiancee and friends.’
Saudi Arabia said the suspects went to Istanbul to meet with Khashoggi over the possibility of him returning to the country.
His death occurred after a heated discussion turned into a quarrel and then a fist fight. The suspects then allegedly tried to cover it up.
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