UK MPs call for investigation into Khashoggi’s disappearance

A number of British members of parliament and of the House of Lords urged Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt to call for an investigation in to the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Khashoggi, a former diplomatic advisor who lived in self-imposed exile in the US, went missing almost two weeks ago after he entered the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, in order to pick up documents for his upcoming marriage.

British members of parliament and of the House of Lords urged Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt to call for an investigation into the disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi

In a letter, the signatories, which include signed Chair of the APPG on Saudi Arabia, Mark Menzies, and Crispin Blunt, said: “there must be full transparency from all parties involved throughout the investigation”.

Sent on Thursday, the letter also commended Hunt on his warnings to Saudi Arabia following Khashoggi’s disappearance.

READ: Britain warns of ‘serious consequences’ if Khashoggi’s death is proved

“We support your comment on this case wholeheartedly,” the officials wrote.

Earlier this week, Hunt warned Saudi Arabia that its friendship with the UK depends on shared values after he demanded answers over claims that a Saudi hit squad may have played a role in the disappearance and possible killing of Khashoggi.

In a tweet, Hunt said he was seeking urgent answers about the fate of Khashoggi. “Violence against journalists is going up and is a grave threat to freedom of expression. If media reports prove correct we will treat the incident seriously – friendships depend on shared values,” he added.

Where is Jamal Khashoggi?… – Cartoon [Sabaaneh/MiddleEastMonitor]