Congress has signaled that it would be prepared to consider legislation to restrict military relations with Saudi Arabia. House and Senate members said they might examine new initiatives meant to restructure U.S. relations with the kingdom during the next session of Congress. They said this could include legislation to end weapons sales to Saudi Arabia. Such legislation had been introduced during the current congressional session. But it was withdrawn under heavy pressure from the Bush administration. Last month, Rep. Ron Paul, a Texas Republican, withdrew an amendment that would cut arms sales to Saudi Arabia. The amendment did not have the support of the House International Relations Committee.
I hope that was just because they don't want somebody jiggling their collective elbow as they unfold some subtle plan. This round might be another warning shot in that plan, though... |