Iran Press/Middle East: The Saudis are preparing a report that will acknowledge that Saudi journalist, Jamal Khashoggi's death was the result of an interrogation that went wrong, the action that was intended to lead to his abduction from Turkey, CNN reported.
One source says the report will likely conclude that the operation was carried out without clearance and transparency and that those involved will be held responsible.
One of the sources acknowledged that the report is still being prepared and cautioned that things could change.
The Washington Post columnist was last seen in public when he entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in Turkey on October 2.
Previously, Saudi authorities had maintained Khashoggi left the consulate the same afternoon of his visit, but provided no evidence to support the claim.
CCTV footage shows Khashoggi entering the Saudi consulate on October 2.
Khashoggi's fiancée, Hatice Cengiz, who was waiting outside the consulate, says she did not see him re-emerge.
Meanwhile, Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson said in an interview with CNN, the report that Saudi Arabia will acknowledge that journalist Jamal Khashoggi's death was the result of an interrogation that went wrong "sounds like they've concocted a cover story."
Related news:
Investigation begins at Saudi consulate in Istanbul over Khashoggi disappearance
Turkish and Saudi investigators on Monday began conducting a joint inspection of the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, where Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi went missing.
Khashoggi's disappearance has evolved into a full-fledged international diplomatic crisis for the Saudi government, led by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. Salman cast himself as a progressive reformer, but the disappearance and possible murder of a critical voice against his government has thrown Salman's relationship with foreign leaders and organizations into question.
The case also caused friction between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, which repeatedly accused the Saudis of failing to cooperate with their investigation.
Turkish officials have said they fear a Saudi hit team that flew into and out of Turkey on Oct. 2 killed and dismembered Khashoggi, who had written Washington Post columns critically of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Turkish officials have shared contents of video and audio recordings that reportedly contain evidence supporting claims that Saudi journalist was murdered by the Saudi government.
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Europe calls on Saudi Arabia, Turkey to undertake a 'credible' Khashoggi probe
Recordings are evidence of Khashoggi's killing: Turkey
US senators urge Trump to slap sanctions on Saudi Arabia over Khashoggi
