WASHINGTON - THE Senate has passed a US$91.3 billion (S$132 billion) war spending bill that would fund stepped-up military operations in Afghanistan but deny President Barack Obama money to close the Guantanamo Bay prison.
The 86-3 vote demonstrated widespread support for increased US troop levels in Afghanistan. A House-Senate compromise should go to President Obama shortly after Congress returns next month.
The sweeping legislation also would provide the International Monetary Fund with a new US$100 billion credit line and provides US$1.5 billion to fight a potential flu epidemic.
A few Democrats said that if they don't see measurable progress in Afghanistan they would rethink their support. The Afghanistan effort is projected to cost more than Iraq starting next year. -- AP
