The Yemen War Powers Resolution Vote Is An Important Step Towards Recalibrating the U.S.-Saudi Relationship

Jordan Cohen andJonathan Ellis AllenThe War in Yemen is the worst manmade humanitarian disaster in the 21st century, and the United States has sponsored it from the start. Nevertheless, on December 13, 2022, the Senate will vote to dischargeS.J. Resolution 56, also known as the Yemen War Powers Resolution, from committee. If passed, the legislation would “remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities against the Houthis in Yemen within 30 days of the enactment of this joint resolution unless Congress authorizes a later withdrawal date, issues a declaration of war, or specifically authorizes the use of the Armed Forces.” Taking such action does no t end all U.S. arms sales to Saudi Arabia, nor does it force them to stop fighting. It simply requires the Biden administration to reduce the amount of support it provides to the kingdom.We have written throughout the year on the War in Yemen.After the United States voted in favor of UNSCR 2216 at the behest of the UAE inMarch. Jonathan wrote at the time, “Washington backed the UAE’s resolution despite fears that it could delay peace and scare off private importers who provide most of Yemen’s food.”We wrote inApril that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates hope to entangle the United States in their conflict by increasingly purchasing U.S. weapons and seeking reassurances – all without offering anything in return.Jordan wrote inJune that proponents of arms sales to Saudi Arabia say they cannot stop because it is too...

Source: Cato-at-liberty - December 13, 2022 Category: American Health Authors: Jordan Cohen, Jonathan Ellis Allen Source Type: blogs