Presidential administrations have kept many pertinent documents hidden away, and those that have surfaced have been riddled with redactions, according to Johnson. A cloud of secrecy hangs over these revelations.
Blumenthal Subpoenas : PIF’s Sovereign Immunity Battle
PIF, though largely silent, has not taken this onslaught lying down. In a move reminiscent of a legal drama, the fund highlighted a letter it sent to Blumenthal on August 23, reiterating concerns about sovereign immunity.
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP attorney Raphael A. Prober, representing PIF, argued that the subcommittee was not respecting the sovereignty and diplomatic interests at play. Yet, PIF offered an olive branch, expressing willingness to work with Blumenthal on a compromise.
Despite these diplomatic maneuvers, the PIF and HE appear open to engaging with the subcommittee on the agreement’s details. It’s a standoff with potential global consequences.
Blumenthal’s Immunity Trump Card
In a bold countermove, Blumenthal preempted any immunity claims by invoking the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FISA). His legal mastery was on full display as he explained that FISA contains exceptions for “commercial activity” within the U.S.
