US Speaker: Killing of Soleimani Was ‘Provocative and Disproportionate’

WASHINGTON, Jan 5 (MENA) - US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi described the killing of Iran Military Commander Qasem Soleimani as "provocative and disproportionate" act as it endangers the lives of American soldiers, diplomats and interests.

In a statement released late Saturday, Pelosi said “American leaders’ highest priority is to protect American lives and interests. But we cannot put the lives of American servicemembers, diplomats and others further at risk by engaging in provocative and disproportionate actions.

Tonight’s airstrike risks provoking further dangerous escalation of violence. America — and the world — cannot afford to have tensions escalate to the point of no return.”

“The Administration has conducted tonight’s strikes in Iraq targeting high-level Iranian military officials and killing Iranian Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani without an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against Iran. Further, this action was taken without the consultation of the Congress.” added the statement.

“The full Congress must be immediately briefed on this serious situation and on the next steps under consideration by the Administration, including the significant escalation of the deployment of additional troops to the region.” according to the statement.