New House Bill Aims to Speed Up Mideast Arms Sales

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, and Rep. John James, R-Mich., introduced a bill to expedite congressional reviews of arms sales to Middle Eastern and North African allies and partners that work to normalize relations with Israel and counter Iran and its proxies, the lawmakers announced March 13. The proposed Enhance Cooperation Against Terrorism Act would also require the State Department to develop recommendations to expedite the delivery of defense articles and services to the region.