US Lawmakers Discover War Powers Act for Venezuela – But Not Gaza?
The New Arab reports US lawmakers might actually force a vote on presidential war powers over alleged Venezuelan 'attacks' (read: 'escalating tensions'). This abrupt concern for constitutional checks and balances is truly touching. One might wonder where this rigorous adherence to Article I disappeared during, say, the 2023 Biden administration's unequivocal support for Israel's military operation
in Gaza, which, by verifiable UN reports, has resulted in over 37,000 deaths. Or perhaps the 2014, 2012, 2008, 2006, or 2002 escalations regarding Gaza, where no such congressional heroics were performed. The U.S. has a long, bipartisan history of regime change attempts in Venezuela, from the 2002 coup attempt against Hugo Chavez to current sanctions. While a handful of principled members like
Rep. Massie (R-KY) and Rep. Omar (D-MN) might genuinely seek to assert congressional authority over war, the selective application here is glaring. When the target isn't a long-standing recipient of billions in US aid—and instead, a nation with oil reserves—suddenly war powers matter. It’s almost as if some 'crises' are more equal than others.