Condemning Human Rights Violations in the Yemen Conflict and Iran’s Aid to Houthi Rebels (H. Res. 599)

What is H. Res. 599?

(Updated April 12, 2018)

This resolution would express the urgent need for a political solution to the conflict in Yemen and denounces the conduct of activities that violate the laws of armed conflict, such as the deliberate targeting of civilians or the use of civilian human shields. It would call on all parties to the conflict to increase efforts to prevent civilian casualties, and allow for unobstructed access for humanitarian organizations, human rights investigators, medical relief personnel, and journalists. Additionally, it would encourage other governments to join in providing the resources necessary to address the humanitarian crisis.

The resolution would also express support for the Saudi-led Arab Coalition’s commitments to abide by their no-strike and restricted target list and improve their targeting capabilities, and acknowledge U.S. assistance to that coalition. It would condemn Iranian activities in Yemen in violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2216 and calls on responsible countries to take measures against Iran, including the interdiction of Iranian weapons to the Houthi rebels and the application of sanctions against Iran.

As a simple resolution, this legislation wouldn’t have the force of law if passed by the House or be considered by the Senate.

Argument in favor

The House should condemn human rights violations in the Yemen conflict and Iran’s support for the Houthi rebels, while also acknowledging that the U.S. is supporting the coalition led by Saudi Arabia without specific congressional authorization for that assistance.

Argument opposed

This resolution is nothing more than a gesture as it wouldn’t have the force of law or compel Congress to authorize military involvement in the Yemen war between the Saudi-led coalition and Iranian-backed Houthi rebels or cut off that assistance.

Impact

The international community; the coalition led by Saudi Arabia, Iran, the Houthis, and other parties to the conflict; and Congress.

Cost of H. Res. 599

A CBO cost estimate is unavailable.

Additional Info

In-Depth: Sponsoring Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) introduced a resolution that would’ve looked to stop U.S. military assistance to Saudi Arabia in its war against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen unless Congress voted to authorize that assistance. Rather than considering that resolution, a bipartisan agreement was made to debate this resolution which: acknowledges U.S. assistance to the Saudi coalition and the lack of a congressional authorization, calls for an end to human rights violations in the conflict, and for the international community to address the humanitarian crisis. Kanna said:

“I do not agree with all the provisions of the compromise resolution, particularly its failure to highlight Saudi Arabia’s crimes against civilians and its exaggeration of Iran’s role in Yemen. But re-orienting our foreign policy away from our Saudi alliance and away from neocon/neoliberal interventionism is a long-term project. I am hopeful this compromise resolution and ensuing debate and briefings will begin that process.”

This legislation has the support of one cosponsor, Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA).

Media:

• Sponsoring Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) Press Release
  
• The Intercept