US congressional leaders from both political parties have vowed to swiftly override President Barack Obama’s veto of legislation that allows victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks to sue Saudi Arabia.
In his veto message, Obama said Friday that the “Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act,” or JASTA, which was passed in Congress on September 9, would be “detrimental” to America’s national security interests and its key alliances.
The legislation “does not enhance the safety of Americans from terrorist attacks, and undermines core US interests,” Obama said, adding that the victims’ families will not be able to gain justice through the bill either.
Some lawmakers called immediately for Congress to override the veto, which requires a two-thirds vote.
“It’s disappointing the president chose to veto legislation unanimously passed by Congress and overwhelmingly supported by the American people,” said Senator John Cornyn, a…