Nuclear Deal With Iran Still In Limbo

On Thursday, the President's summit at Camp David with several Gulf leaders ended on a positive note as Obama pledged to stand by the U.S.'s Arab allies and help protect the region against Iran's "destabilizing activities."

The meeting marked a small step forward for the White House's initiative to create a nuclear pact with Iran, but on the same day, new legislation that passed in the House of Representatives suggested that Sunni Arab states weren't the only obstacle the President will face in making a deal.

Gulf Support

Several Gulf leaders have voiced their disappointment with the U.S.'s efforts to find common ground with Iran regarding the nation's nuclear development program. Many worry that the deal will embolden Iran and further divide the already troubled Middle East.

Nations like Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain have long been allies of the U.S., and their disagreement with a nuclear treaty proves a diplomatic problem for the President.

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However, this week they appeared to have made some headway with Obama promising to up security measures in the region and increase joint military exercises.

Support At Home

However, the President may find that his biggest challenge is in his own backyard, as a new measure passed by the House on Thursday will allow Congress to review the finalized treaty with Iran after it has been negotiated.

The Iran Nuclear Review Act of 2015 was passed in a 400–25 vote and gives Congress 30 days to look over the White House's deal with Iran before any sanctions will be lifted. Republicans say the bill is necessary to ensure that the pact is beneficial to the U.S., as there has been some concern that Obama is willing to give up too much just to push the deal through.