Pelosi Says ‘World Cannot Afford War’ As Congress Reacts To Iranian Attack

Reactions to the Iranian attack on Iraqi military bases housing United States troops are pouring in fast and furious on social media, and one of the most notable reactions comes from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Amid a flurry of reactionary tweets and prayers for the U.S. troops in harm’s way in the wake of the attacks, the California Congresswoman, and one of the President’s most formidable political adversaries, has emphatically stated that the world cannot afford a war at the present time.

"Closely monitoring the situation following bombings targeting U.S. troops in Iraq. We must ensure the safety of our servicemembers, including ending needless provocations from the Administration and demanding that Iran cease its violence. America & world cannot afford war," Pelosi said in a tweet.

According to report by NBC, Pelosi’s Deputy Chief of Staff Drew Hammill said that she was briefed by Vice President Mike Pence on the Iranian strike, which saw about a dozen missiles targeting military bases in Iraq housing United States servicemen and women. Her legislative counterpart, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer was also briefed by the Vice President. A spokesman for Senator Schumer sayid he is praying for all American soldiers and personnel in the region.

Relaying similar sentiments, presidential hopeful Senator Elizabeth Warren said, "My heart and my prayers are with our military and with our families in Iraq and all around the world." Warren told the crowd at a rally in New York Tuesday evening. She also took the opportunity to reiterate the attack is a glaring reminder of our need for de-escalation in the Middle East, and she said the American people do not want war with Iran.

The attack and reactions from lawmakers come just one day before Congress is expected to receive briefings Wednesday from top administration officials about the situation in Iran and the U.S. decision to kill Soleimani last week.