Event at the National Press Club
The new Syrian and Saudi “Accountability Acts” represent unique Congressional forays into the executive branch’s traditional authority over US foreign affairs. What is the potential long-term diplomatic and economic impact of accountability acts on the US and relations with the international community? What evidence and justifications underlie these acts? How are American national interests served? Which lobbies and interest groups seek these acts? As Congress sets preconditions for relations with Middle East nations based on violations of international laws and resolutions, should a regional balance be sought in order to increase US credibility? Should relations with Israel be subject to an accountability act?