Introduction

The 2018 disappearance and subsequent killing of Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi journalist, captured global attention and sparked intense debates and inquiries into the involvement of the Saudi Arabian government in this tragic event. This article delves into the likelihood of Khashoggi's murder being orchestrated by the Saudi regime and examines the evidence and rhetoric surrounding this controversial case.

Debunking the “Rogue Killers” Theory

Theories about a group of “rogue” attackers operating within the Saudi consulate in Istanbul have gained media attention. However, a thorough examination of the evidence reveals that such claims are inconsistent with the structured and closely controlled nature of a diplomatic mission.

From an operational standpoint, embassies and consulates operate under strict protocols and are heavily fortified. Diplomatic personnel are citizens of the host country, and access is tightly controlled. Any unauthorized action within these secure facilities would be highly unusual and highly controlled.

The idea of “rogue” operators acting without authorization is improbable. Given the complexity and security measures in place, it would be impossible for a few individuals to operate outside of the established chain of command. Such an action would also provide a clear motive for the government to cover up the true nature of the incident.

The Role of the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul

The diplomatic staff at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul knew when and where Jamal Khashoggi was to be interviewed. This prior knowledge and coordination suggest a formal plan rather than a spontaneous or unauthorized action. The Saudi government's claims of Khashoggi exiting the building in good health and then dying during a fight have been dismissed by evidence, raising questions about the veracity of these narratives.

The timeline and details given by the Saudi authorities over time—first stating Khashoggi left in good health, then suggesting he was the aggressor in a fight, and finally alleging that "rogue elements" were involved—highlight the shifting official narratives. These inconsistencies raise suspicions about the underlying truth.

Political Motivations of Erdogan’s Political Maneuvering

President Erdogan's interest in prolonging the investigation and avoiding a definitive conclusion may be rooted in political motivations. By keeping the investigation open, he can use this story to levy criticism against the Saudi Arabian government and potentially gain diplomatic support. The persistent questioning and denunciations from Turkey have put pressure on the Saudi regime, potentially serving as a tool for domestic and international political leverage.

However, speculations that the Erdogan's actions are driven by personal animosity or political gain do not constitute concrete evidence. The timing and strategy of political maneuvering need to be analyzed in conjunction with the facts and available evidence to understand the underlying motivations.

Conclusion

The evidence currently available does not support the claims of an uncontrolled “rogue” operation by a few individuals within the Saudi consulate. The sophisticated and coordinated actions leading to Jamal Khashoggi's death point towards a more systematic and centralized involvement of the Saudi government or its representatives. The shifting narratives from the Saudi authorities further complicate the situation, highlighting the complexities and uncertainties surrounding this case.

The full truth behind Khashoggi's murder may never be entirely clear, but ongoing investigations and open dialogue are vital for understanding the complete picture. It is essential to continue scrutinizing the available evidence and holding all parties accountable for their actions.