Jamal Khashoggi: Murder in the Saudi Consulate

Murder in the Saudi Consulate delves into the shocking assassination of the prominent Saudi journalist. It reconstructs Khashoggi’s final days, examining his personal plans and movements leading up to his fateful visit to the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2, 2018. Through a combination of exclusive testimonies, expert analyses, and careful examination of records and reports, it paints a comprehensive picture of the events surrounding Khashoggi’s death and the subsequent attempts to cover it up.

At its heart is the testimony of Khashoggi’s fiancée, Hatice Cengiz, who provides a poignant and personal of her emotional struggle in the aftermath of his disappearance. Her story, along with insights from Khashoggi’s close circle of friends and colleagues, offers a deeply human perspective on the tragedy and its far-reaching consequences.

The documentary explores the political context that led to Khashoggi’s exile from Saudi Arabia and his increasingly vocal criticism of the regime, particularly following the rise of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. It details how Khashoggi’s writings for the Washington Post expanded his influence and made him a target for the Saudi government. It also sheds light on Khashoggi’s various projects and collaborations aimed at promoting democracy and countering online harassment of regime critics.

Through careful investigation and reenactments, the film reconstructs the events of October 2, 2018, including the arrival of the Saudi hit squad in Istanbul and their movements leading up to Khashoggi’s entrance into the consulate. It examines the immediate aftermath of his disappearance, the conflicting statements from Saudi officials, and the gradual unraveling of the truth behind his fate.

The documentary implicates high-level Saudi officials, including Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in the planning and execution of the assassination. It presents credible evidence that calls for further investigation into their involvement, as stated by UN Special Rapporteur Agnès Callamard.

The film goes beyond merely recounting events, offering a broader examination of the implications of Khashoggi’s murder for press freedom, international relations, and the future of Saudi Arabia. It serves as a powerful reminder of the risks faced by journalists who dare to speak truth to power and the lengths to which authoritarian regimes may go to silence their critics.