WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) said American service members understand the dangers that come with military service as tensions escalate with Iran, responding to concerns about potential casualties during a press call on Tuesday.
Capito addressed reporters after a weekend of targeted U.S. strikes against what she described as “high value assets” in Iran, saying the situation in the Middle East remains a major focus as the military operation unfolds.
“All eyes are on the Middle East and Iran as our military has conducted targeted strikes on high value assets in Iran,” Capito said, adding that the president had given Iran “countless opportunities to stand down and negotiate” and abandon its nuclear ambitions.
The senator said she continues to closely monitor the situation and expects additional briefings later in the day.
During the call, Capito also acknowledged the deaths of U.S. service members connected to the ongoing conflict, offering condolences to their families.
“Sadly my prayers are with the brave men and women who are serving our country in uniform, and particularly the six service members and their families who have already paid the ultimate sacrifice,” she said. “Please know that our sorrows and our condolences are with those family members as they lose a loved one.”
Capito was asked about concerns from West Virginians following the death of a member of the West Virginia National Guard and the injury of another Guardsman in Washington, D.C., and whether additional deployments to the Middle East could lead to more casualties among young service members from the state.
The senator said the risks associated with military service are understood by those who volunteer.
“Our military, when they volunteer, they know that they’re signing up for a potentially very dangerous job in very dangerous regions of the world,” Capito said. “To be in an area that’s being bombed or close to an area that’s being bombed or potentially being bombed is a very daunting challenge for our military.”
Capito said U.S. forces are highly trained and that protecting them remains a priority.
“They’re well trained. They’re going to be protected to the utmost. That is certainly my priority and the president’s priority,” she said.
Capito expressed hope that the conflict would not result in additional casualties, even as leaders acknowledge the possibility.
“I think that our military, because they are in service to our country, not only realize the risks but are proud of the service that they do for our country. Hopefully we won’t have any more casualties or any more deaths over there,” she said.
Despite the risks, Capito said service members take pride in their role.
