Kay Granger: “The gentleman proposes an amendment that cuts all funding for the introduction of U.S. Armed Forces in the hostilities…”

“The gentleman proposes an amendment that cuts all funding for the introduction of U.S. Armed Forces in the hostilities in Yemen. U.S. Forces need the flexibility to enter any theater where terrorists target the United States. Just 2 months ago, American Special Operations Forces conducted a ground raid against al- Qaida's Yemen branch, killing seven suspected militants. We consulted leadership at the Department of Defense regarding this amendment. The Department recommends a more thorough legal review of the implications of this amendment. Further, the Joint Staff asserts that a U.S. provision of limited support to the Saudi-led coalition might be construed in this context as participation in civil war, in which case, removal of such support could have a damaging effect on the U.S. relationship with Saudi Arabia and create further implications for regional security. With Special Operations fighting terrorism around the globe to protect our safety, does Congress want to show its lack of support? This amendment is poorly timed and overly restrictive and has many unforeseen complications. Therefore, the committee strongly opposes this amendment.”