The Trump administration has issued a memo certifying that the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen’s civil war is “undertaking demonstrable actions to reduce the risk of harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure,” although also affirming that current civilian casualty numbers are “far too high.” The memo will permit continued U.S. military support for the coalition as it moves into September after the deadliest month for civilians throughout the war. The U.S. currently provides aerial refueling for coalition aircraft and training/advising services for improved targeting. The move has been criticized by humanitarian organizations and politicians, some of whom have begun to seek a War Powers Resolution from Congress. One analyst argued, however, that the U.S.’s involvement and provision of precision-guided munitions and refueling is a major factor in reducing civilian casualties. One benefit of the Trump vs. Congress dynamic is that it may pressure Saudi Arabia into making greater efforts to reduce civilian casualties.
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