The proposed transaction, which has been in the works since early last year, also includes an internal security communications systems worth $97 million. William Hartung, director of the arms and security program at the Center for International Policy, said the sale should not go ahead. Under arms sale rules, lawmakers have 30 days from the day of notification, or until Jan. 21, to pass a resolution of disapproval. At the same time, President Trump could issue an emergency declaration, as he did last year, overriding any congressional objection, at any point. In addition to the Saudi sale, the Trump administration sent additional arms sale notifications to Congress this week, including small arms and small arms components for Canada, Philippines and Mexico.

Source: Washington Post December 24, 2020 02:48 UTC