Trump hosts Saudi Crown Prince to discuss defence, AI and nuclear deals

Pope Leo has criticized the treatment of immigrants in the United States, describing it as 'extremely disrespectful.' His comments align with a recent statement from US bishops condemning mass deportations and immigration raids under the Trump administration, highlighting the fear and anxiety these policies have caused among vulnerable populations.

Al Jazeera’s Kimberley Halkett asked US President Donald Trump about the potential sale of F-35 jets to Saudi Arabia. This inquiry comes amid ongoing discussions about military cooperation between the two nations, particularly as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prepares for a visit to the White House.

The Senate has swiftly approved a bill mandating the release of investigative files related to Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan effort, supported by Donald Trump, marks a significant step in addressing public interest in Epstein's case.

Donald Trump defended Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on November 18 regarding the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, which occurred in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. Trump's remarks contradict a U.S. intelligence report that concluded the Crown Prince had approved the operation. This defense raises questions about the U.S. stance on human rights and accountability in foreign relations.

The Republican-controlled U.S. Congress voted almost unanimously to release Justice Department files on the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This decision follows President Donald Trump's reversal of his long-standing opposition to the release, which he had maintained for months. The vote reflects a significant shift in the political landscape surrounding Epstein's case.

President Donald Trump has agreed to sell the F-35 fighter jet, the most advanced in the U.S. arsenal, to Saudi Arabia. This decision comes amid concerns that China could potentially access the advanced technology embedded in the aircraft. The sale is part of a broader strategy to strengthen military ties with Saudi Arabia.

Hugh Marks, managing director of ABC, criticized what he termed 'opportunistic' attacks on the broadcaster following accusations that its Four Corners program misrepresented a speech by Donald Trump on January 6, 2021. Marks argued that comparisons between the ABC's programming and the BBC's editorial decisions are not valid. He acknowledged that there are lessons to be learned from the BBC's errors, particularly regarding the handling of sensitive content. The remarks were made during a National Press Club address.

Saudi Arabia has been designated as a major non-NATO ally of the United States, a move celebrated by President Donald Trump as a significant enhancement of military cooperation. This designation comes alongside a deal for Saudi Arabia to acquire F-35 warplanes, marking a pivotal moment in U.S.-Saudi relations. The announcement reflects a deepening partnership between the two nations, particularly in defense and security matters.