This archive report was first published on 22 May 2020.
Published on May 22, 2020, the family's decision comes after years of investigation and conflicting narratives surrounding Khashoggi's death.
On a blessed night in Ramadan, son Salah Khashoggi tweeted, 'If a person forgives and makes reconciliation, his reward is due from Allah.' He went on to announce, 'Therefore we the sons of martyr Jamal Khashoggi announce we forgive and pardon those who killed our father, seeking reward from God almighty.'
Journalist Jamal Khashoggi was killed and dismembered by Saudi operatives on October 2, 2018, after entering the country's consulate in Istanbul. Riyadh initially offered conflicting explanations for his disappearance before acknowledging his murder.
Despite the Saudi government's claims that Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman was not involved, UN Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard concluded that Khashoggi's murder was a 'deliberate, premeditated execution.'
Five people have been sentenced to death for their roles in Khashoggi's murder, but the family's forgiveness has sparked debate about accountability and justice.