What is the 9/11 bill and why is it so controversial?

The families of 9/11 victims brought the bill to allow them to pursue Saudi Arabia's possible links to the attacks through the courts

BBC, Thu, Sep 29, 2016

A new bill passed through the US Congress is creating a storm - with President Barack Obama and the CIA warning of its dire consequences.

In passing the law that allows legal action against Saudi Arabia over the 9/11 attacks, Congress over-ruled a veto by Mr Obama for the first time in his presidency.

So why is it so controversial, and what are its wider implications?

What is the bill?

The Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) was brought by the families of 9/11 victims, to allow them to sue any member of the Saudi government suspected of playing a role in the attacks.

In practice, the bill permits civil claims against a foreign state or official for injuries, death, or damages from an act of international terrorism. . .


To read the full piece from BBC, click here.