A+ A-

Kerry, Al Jubeir discuss ways to 'fix' JASTA

WASHINGTON, Oct 21 (KUNA) -- Secretary of State John Kerry has met with Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir and discussed ways to "fix" the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) and a possible continuation of the ceasefire in Yemen.
JASTA is the recently passed bill that allows US citizens to sue foreign governments believed to sponsor or participate in terrorism.
"We discussed ways to try to fix this in a way that respects and honors the needs and right of victims but at the same time does not expose American troops and American partners who may be involved in another country," Kerry said alongside the Foreign Minister, following the meeting late on Thursday.
On Yemen, Al Jubeir accused the Ansarullah group of increasing attacks on Thursday.
"As of this morning Washington time there had been more than 150 violations by the (Ansarullah) side," Jubeir said.
Kerry acknowledged that an Ansarullah missile came into Saudi Arabia and killed two but stressed "that the ceasefire that was ended at midnight last night remains in place, contrary to some other statements out there," Kerry noted. He continued, "Saudi Arabia has a right to be free from missiles being launched from Yemen into Saudi Arabia and for the (Ansrallah), we would call on them to draw their troops back to draw their missiles back which ultimately will have to be negotiated." Al Jubeir stressed, "I want to emphasise that we have a right to defend ourselves, we have a right to protect our borders, we have a right to protect our citizens and we have to ensure that the other side maintains its commitment to the cessation of hostilities." Kerry noted that it is "important for the ceasefire to be given time to take hold" and that "there will be an infractions here and there." The leaders also discussed way to "reinforce the abilities" of the Libyan government, unification against the so-called Islamic State in Libya, and a possible multinational group meeting of the main stakeholders to try and strengthen the government's ability to serve the Libyan people, Kerry said.
On Syria, the Secretary noted that the two discussed the possibility of "some progress" that may have been made during the day's talks in Geneva, especially regarding Aleppo.
Expectations are "low and careful" but there is "high hopes," Kerry said. (end) ak.rk