The State Department highlights the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi by government agents in an annual human rights report released Wednesday, saying Saudi Arabia has an “environment of impunity” for officials suspected of human rights abuses. “In other cases the government did not punish officials accused of committing human rights abuses, contributing to an environment of impunity,” the report states in a note of skepticism. “The president has been very clear — couldn’t be more clear — as we get additional information, we will continue to hold all of those responsible accountable.”This is the first annual human rights report issued by the State Department since Pompeo became secretary of state. In a short preface to the report, Pompeo wrote that the United States finds it closest allies in countries that respect human rights. “At the same time, we recognize that U.S. interests in the enduring stability, prosperity, and security of a world filled with strong, sovereign states will only be served if governments respect human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

Source: Washington Post March 13, 2019 15:05 UTC