Rep. Ilhan Omar introduced the resolutions in an effort to hold the countries accountable for human rights abuses.
by Ken Klippenstein, The Intercept
Rep. Ilhan Omar is introducing two pieces of legislation to block U.S. arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, citing atrocities committed by both countries. The U.S. made high-profile sales to both countries in December, shoring up their offensive capabilities amid the possibility of a regional war and a growing risk of confrontation with Yemen’s Houthis.
The Saudi bill is the Minnesota progressive’s latest attempt to hold the Saudi regime to account for its sordid human rights record. It would stop the sale of aircraft support, intelligence sensors, and other materiel relied upon by the Royal Saudi Air Force amid a blockade that has devastated Yemen’s population. In December, the State Department approvedOpens in a new tab a $582 million sale to Saudi Arabia to renew its drone surveillance system.
The UAE also recently escalated its involvement in the war on Yemen, leading to Houthi rocket attacks that have eroded the sense of security the Emirati states had cultivated. Omar’s measure would prohibit the sale of high explosive rockets, radar systems, and other military equipment to the UAE. In December, the State Department approvedOpens in a new tab an $85 million sale of high explosive rockets and defense-related radar equipment to the UAE.
Recent Posts
A Whistleblower’s Return To The World.
May 15, 2024
Take Action Now This was to be my first trip abroad in a very long time, certainly the first time since being released from prison. By Jeffrey…
Only Our Enemies Commit War Crimes
May 15, 2024
Take Action Now A half-baked report highlights the double standard US officials use for Israel By Connor Echols, Responsible Statecraft On NBC’s…
NATO Spreads Nuclear Weapons, Energy, And Risk
May 15, 2024
Take Action Now NATO calls itself a “nuclear alliance” and maintains a “Nuclear Planning Group” for all of its members — those with and those…
Nuclear Weapons at Any Price? Congress Should Say No
May 14, 2024
Take Action Now Costs are skyrocketing to modernize the U.S. nuclear arsenal. Instead of turning a blind eye, Congress should demand fiscal…