Topic: Arms Embargo

Dutch MEP Marietje Schaake and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have called for an EU-wide arms embargo against Saudi Arabia. The proposal includes potential sanctions under a Magnitsky-style framework, targeting the assets and travel privileges of Saudi officials involved in human rights violations.

Foreign policy veteran Zbigniew Brzezinski dismissed Prime Minister Netanyahu's criticisms of the Iran deal, characterizing the Israeli leader as "not a very serious person" who exaggerates for political effect. Conversely, Senator Lindsey Graham criticized the deal for lifting the UN arms embargo, arguing that it would lead to a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. The segment highlights the deep ideological divide in Washington regarding the agreement's long-term consequences.

UN Ambassador Susan Rice discussed the possibility of a UN "presence on the ground" in Libya following the no-fly zone. The hosts also highlight reports that China may have attempted to sell arms to the Gaddafi regime as late as July, suggesting a deeper conflict between NATO and Chinese interests in the region.

Hillary Clinton suggested that UN Resolution 1973 might "override" previous prohibitions on arms transfers to Libya. The hosts point out that the resolution explicitly forbids the transport of arms into the country. Clinton defended the lack of transparency regarding rebel leaders by citing security concerns in central and western Libya.