Khashoggi probe opened in France

A French investigating judge has officially opened a probe into the 2018 murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The inquiry follows a legal complaint filed by human rights groups accusing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of complicity in the killing.

France's national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office confirmed the investigation, which will examine the Prince's alleged role in the assassination at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul.

The move marks a significant new legal challenge for the Saudi leadership regarding the high-profile case.