The Saudi-led coalition has repeatedly been accused of war crimes in Yemen — but Mattis says the US will keep supporting it

Reuters

• Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Tuesday that the US intends to continue backing the Saudi-led coalition fighting Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.
• The US marginally supports the Saudi-led coalition, despite several reports and accusations of war crimes and human rights abuses. 
• Criticism of the Saudi campaign surged earlier this month when an airstrike hit a bus, killing dozens, including school children.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said on Tuesday that the US intends to continue backing the Saudi-led coalition fighting Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen despite civilian casualties and questions about the Saudis' commitment to avoiding killing innocents.

At a rare Pentagon news conference, Mattis defended US support for the coalition, saying American influence on the Arab air campaign has made a difference in reducing instances of errant bombing and the targeting of civilians.See the rest of the story at Business Insider

NOW WATCH: INSIDE WEST POINT: What it’s really like for new Army cadets on their first day

See Also:

• Iran solidifies its support of the Syrian regime with a deal promising continued military cooperation
• A Saudi-led coalition airstrike reportedly just killed more than 20 children — again
• Iran's new jet fighter looks like a big joke — but its real purpose could save Iran's air force

SEE ALSO: A Saudi-led coalition airstrike reportedly just killed more than 20 children — again