Renzi Calls for Extensive Review of UAE Ports Deal

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Rick Renzi (AZ-1), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, has called for a complete and thorough review of the proposed agreement to allow a United Arab Emirates company to take control over several U.S. seaports. Congressman Renzi said an extensive review is needed before the deal can proceed. Renzi said the hiring practices especially need to be studied to ensure that the proper safeguards are in place to prevent terrorist from infiltrating the company as new employees. Congressman Renzi contacted the Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff last week to express his opposition to the deal after news of it became public. Renzi is expected to receive a classified briefing on the ports deal by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence later today. "There are many unanswered questions surrounding this ports deal," said Congressman Renzi. "Congress must continue with a thorough and extensive review, including a close look at all aspects of this company, especially a complete vetting of company executives and their hiring practices. This review is essential because of new information about a past boycott of Israeli ships by Dubai Ports World." Renzi also noted that the U.S. Coast Guard was unable provide an accurate threat assessment to the deal. Renzi said he shared the Coast Guard's concerns that there may be "intelligence gaps" of information that are preventing an accurate understanding of the deal and its potential negative affect on America's national security.