WASHINGTON – Today U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner issued the below statement following the Senate's vote to open debate on a resolution dealing with U.S. Military Involvement in Yemen. 

"This afternoon I voted to allow a debate on the role of U.S. Armed Forces in Yemen because I believe that Congress has an important Constitutional role to play in overseeing and setting U.S. military and foreign policy. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is and remains a critical ally of the United States in the fight against terrorist groups, and they have a right to defend their territory. Yet given the devastating humanitarian crisis, the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians, and the destruction of almost all of Yemen’s infrastructure, it is time for Saudi Arabia to take a hard look at its approach to Yemen and more aggressively pursue a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. While I support debate on this issue, I will also work to ensure that Saudi Arabia can defend its territory against external threats, including Iran, and that freedom of navigation can be maintained in the Red Sea. I will also remain steadfast in ensuring that the United States combats extremist groups, who threaten our national interests."