A French investigating judge will examine complaints filed by human rights groups accusing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) of involvement in the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, according to multiple reports citing French and legal sources. The investigation follows years of legal disputes in France over whether the complaints were admissible. In a decision reported last week, the Paris Court of Appeal finds that the possibility the case could be treated as a crime against humanity “could not be ruled out,” allowing the inquiry to proceed.
The complaints were submitted by Trial International and Democracy for the Arab World Now (DAWN), and were later joined by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The groups argue that bin Salman bears responsibility, alleging complicity in torture and enforced disappearance and stating he “ordered the assassination by asphyxiation.” The case centers on Khashoggi’s murder at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October 2018, after which his body was dismembered and has not been found.
A judge specializing in crimes against humanity will assess whether the allegations could lead to further proceedings, including claims that the killing formed part of a broader “concerted plan” by Saudi authorities against opponents. Bin Salman has denied ordering the killing but said it happened under his watch.
