"Concern Sufficient to Justify a Public Debate": The Congressman Pressuring the US - Regarding Israel
CNN reported that Democratic Congressman Joaquin Castro pressured Secretary of State Marco Rubio to change the US policy of ambiguity regarding Israel's nuclear capabilities. Rubio refused, arguing that the matter requires a delicate balance.
CNN reported that Democratic Congressman Joaquin Castro, a member of the House Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committees, pressured Secretary of State Marco Rubio to change the US policy of ambiguity regarding Israel's nuclear capabilities. According to the report, Castro argued in conversations with Rubio on Capitol Hill in June that it is dangerous for the US to fight alongside Israel without knowing its 'red line' for the use of nuclear weapons. Rubio refused, saying that the matter requires a delicate balance and that the US does not discuss it publicly as part of foreign policy. CNN noted that Rubio provided the most candid public assessment on the issue, and that the growing pressure from lawmakers may indicate a crumbling of the US 'denial stance.' It was also noted that it is unclear how Trump's planned reduction in military aid will affect the policy. A State Department spokesperson stated that this is a long-standing policy. The White House and the Israeli Embassy did not comment.