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Obama Vetoes 9/11 Saudi Lawsuits Bill

Bill was passed by both houses of Congress.

President Obama on Friday vetoed the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act, a bill passed by both houses of Congress that would allow families of 9/11 victims to sue Saudi Arabia for damages. It is Obama’s 12th veto as president, and it sets up an override vote in Congress. Despite a U.S. investigation claiming that some Saudi officials were connected to the attack, the country’s government denies any involvement. In a veto message, Obama said he has “deep sympathy” for the victim’s families, but warned that the bill “does not enhance the safety of Americans from terrorist attacks, and undermines core U.S. interests.” Obama also said the legislation would be “detrimental to U.S. national interests” because it would allow lawsuits against countries that have not been designated as state sponsors of terrorism.