US and UK Retaliatory Strikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen Spark Political Controversy
By Avi Farah
Published January 12, 2024
The recent Western bombing raids in Yemen have sparked mixed reactions from lawmakers in Washington. The strikes, carried out by the US and UK forces targeting Houthi militants, have raised questions about the extent of President Joe Biden's authorization for the military action.
Details of the Strikes and President Biden's Justification
The US Air Force's Mideast command reported that over 60 targets at 16 sites in Yemen were struck, including command-and-control nodes, munitions depots, launching systems, production facilities, and air defense radar systems. President Biden justified the strikes, involving Tomahawk missiles and fighter jets, as a response to Houthi militant attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. He emphasized that the US and its allies will not tolerate such actions and highlighted that the decision was made after attempted negotiations.
Political Criticism and Support
The retaliatory strikes have prompted criticism from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers. Some Democrats, including Rep. Rashida Tlaib, raised concerns about the lack of authorization for the military action, citing violations of the Constitution. On the Republican side, Senator Mike Lee echoed the importance of constitutional authority. However, Democratic Rep. Sara Jacobs emphasized the administration's responsibility to protect service members and the laws of the sea, stating that congressional leadership was briefed before the attack.
Context of Houthi Militant Attacks and Israeli Affiliation
The strikes were a response to a series of attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea by Houthi militants, who have targeted vessels affiliated with Israel amid the Israel-Gaza conflict. The conflict escalated following a Hamas terrorist attack last October, leading to increased tensions in the region.
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