House Democrats Criticize Biden for Striking Houthi Targets in Yemen Without Congressional Approval

Some House Democrats have expressed frustration with the Biden administration for striking Houthi positions in Yemen without seeking Congressional approval on Thursday night. Ro Khanna, a Democratic representative from California, wrote on Twitter that the President needs to come to Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving the U.S. in another Middle Eastern conflict. Other Democrats, including Val Hoyle and Mark Pocan, also tweeted their displeasure, emphasizing the importance of Congressional authorization for military involvement in overseas conflicts.

Despite the criticism from some Democrats, senior Republican lawmakers have shown rare praise for Biden over the move. Mitch McConnell, the Senate Minority Leader, issued a statement welcoming the U.S. and coalition operations against the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists responsible for disrupting international commerce in the Red Sea and attacking American vessels.

The U.S. led a coordinated airstrike in Yemen with the U.K. and support from Canada, Australia, and Bahrain. President Biden announced the strikes in a statement, explaining that the targets were used by Houthi rebels to endanger freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most vital waterways. The attacks have endangered U.S. personnel, civilian mariners, and partners, jeopardized trade, and threatened freedom of navigation.

The topic of Israel has driven a wedge in the Democratic Party, with hardliners and progressives more critical of U.S.-Israel relations and its military response in Gaza, while mainstream Democrats remain committed to the Middle Eastern ally. Since the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas began in October, Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been launching attacks against southern Israel and ships in the Red Sea.

Elizabeth Elkind is a reporter for Fox News Digital focused on Congress as well as the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and politics. Follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind and send tips to elizabeth.elkind@fox.com.