The US Senate passed a $662 billion defense bill on Thursday that also freezes some Pakistan aid, imposes sanctions on Iran’s central bank, and approves the indefinite imprisonment of suspected terrorists. The Democrat-led Senate voted 86-13 for the Defence Authorisation bill, which was passed Wednesday by the House. President Barack Obama was expected to sign it as early as this weekend after dropping a veto threat. The bill freezes roughly $700 million in aid to Pakistan, pending assurances that Islamabad has taken steps to thwart militants who use improvised explosive devices (IEDs) against US-led forces in Afghanistan. However, the State Department sought to downplay the Congress’ move by suggesting that the legislation does not actually cut $700 million in military aid to Pakistan. Rather, it includes a reporting requirement.
