Much Has Changed since Bernie’s Last Yemen Resolution Push

The Yemen War Powers Resolution, introduced by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and supported by key Democrats and Republicans, aims to restrict nearly all U.S. involvement in the conflict’s “hostilities.” The resolution text defines hostilities as sharing intelligence with the Saudi-led coalition for “offensive” strikes, providing any “logistical support” for such strikes, and having DOD personnel directly help coalition forces conduct operations.

Army Lt. Col. Rob Lodewick, a spokesperson for the Pentagon, said, “the United States is not engaged in hostilities in or affecting Yemen.”

A version of this bill passed both congressional chambers in 2019, only to see Trump veto it. It’s unclear if the Senate has enough votes this time around — it only needs 51 to pass. The ground truth has changed since Biden came to office.

“Riyadh has largely abided by its commitments under the ceasefire that was implemented earlier this year,” said Jonathan Lord, director of the Center for a New American Security’s Middle East program. “At this juncture, the WPR would only serve to punish the Saudis for past sins, which is ultimately unhelpful in incentivizing their continued and future cooperation in achieving a lasting peace agreement in Yemen.”

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