The Jewish War Veterans of the United States has sharply criticized President Bush for releasing nearly $21 million in U.S. military aid to Jordan.
The aid was frozen by Congress in April because of Jordan’s support for the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. Bush informed Congress on Friday that the funds were being unfrozen in response to Jordan’s help in the Middle East peace process.
Albert Cohen, the JWV’s recently elected national commander, called Bush’s action “manipulative and without merit.”
Jordan will be eligible for $20 million in financing for arms purchases and up to $783,000 for military training.
“How can President Bush justify opening U.S. coffers to Jordan for military purposes when that country stood on the side of Saddam Hussein during the Gulf war?” the head of the 100,000-member veterans service organization asked.
“Clearly, the president is attempting to manipulate the players of a future Mideast peace conference with this move,” Cohen said. “Apparently, our enemies deserve greater consideration than given to our real friends.”
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