US Senate opens showdown with Obama over Iran sanctions

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators in both parties squared off with the Obama administration Wednesday about whether the threat of new U.S., sanctions would scuttle nuclear talks with Iran as House Speaker John Boehner, without consulting the White House, invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address Congress.

Netanyahu is a staunch opponent of Iran, and Boehner's move to bring him before a joint meeting of Congress likely increases the chances of a congressional collision with the White House.

"Congress can make this decision on its own. I don't believe I am poking anyone in the eye," the speaker said. "There is a serious threat that exists in the world. And the president last night kind of papered over it."

The White House said the invitation was a breach of typical diplomatic protocol. Spokesman Josh Earnest, traveling with the president to Idaho, told reporters the administration would "reserve judgment until we have an opportunity to speak to the Israelis about their plans for the trip and about what he plans to say."

The invitation was a coordinated effort involving Boehner and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell with staff discussions beginning last year, according to a senior Republican aide.

Boehner contacted the Israeli ambassador earlier this month to assess Netanyahu's interest and received a positive response. In turn, several dates were suggested, said the aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the individual wasn't authorized to publicly discuss the private talks.

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