Congress moves to block Pakistan aid…maybe

Read here.

A House panel is considering a bill Wednesday that would suspend billions in foreign aid to several governments in the Middle East and beyond until the Obama administration can certify they are not controlled by groups hostile to the United States and its allies.

The bill, which provides the blueprint for U.S. foreign aid around the world, contains a big loophole — despite the myriad requirements outlined in the draft, it would allow the president to waive them in the interest of national security.

But the provisions, if passed, would impose a new and rigorous set of standards on how U.S. aid is distributed to nations and a leading group known for hosting a thriving anti-American contingent.

The proposal would require Egypt, Pakistan, Lebanon, Yemen and the Palestinian Authority to meet specific requirements in order to receive U.S. aid.