This commentary was written by MaryDiane Baker of Brattleboro. Baker is a volunteer Action Corps Vermont organizer.
The truce for the U.S.-backed Saudi/United Arab Emirates war and blockade in Yemen expired on Oct. 2. This blockade “substantially contributed to pushing Yemeni civilians into starvation and can be considered torture” according to a recent report entitled “Torture in Slow Motion.” It’s crucial that Congress takes the defining step to end this American-sponsored tragedy: pass the bipartisan Yemen War Powers Act without delay.
Ninety percent of Yemen’s food, fuel and medicines are imported. Almost two-thirds of the people are food-insecure. Eighty percent are in need of humanitarian aid. Supplies have increased a small but insufficient amount since the first ceasefire in April this year. In the face of UN World Food Programme funding shortfalls, mass starvation is likely to grow in Yemen.
The report from the World Organisation Against Torture states, “The blockade must stop immediately and completely, rather than depend on a fragile and long peace process” and that the Saudi blockade’s searches of supply transports “have not led to any discovery of weapons.”
The Saudis continue to inflict suffering on Yemen and its civilians thanks to extravagant U.S. military backing. For more than 7 years, your tax dollars and mine have supplied the Saudi/UAE coalition with American personnel, U.S.-made warplanes and targeting guidance for coalition airstrikes on Yemen. All 3 countries bear responsibility for these actions which violate international norms, including the United Nations Torture Convention.
Before Congress’s summer recess, our senators Bernie Sanders and Patrick Leahy introduced the Yemen War Powers Act along with Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Rep. Peter Welch was an original co-sponsor in the House. I thank them for their work on these resolutions, which are supported by a broad range of legislators. Activists and organizations in more than 30 countries also call for the end of U.S. complicity in this unconstitutional war. You can easily add your voice by calling 1-833-STOP-WAR, 1-833-786-7927.
Peace in Yemen would be a momentous event. It has a chance only if our country halts American participation. Congress and President Joe Biden have the tools they need to do this. Pass the Yemen War Powers Act now.
